To expose the sin of Samaria & Jerusalem, the LORD tells a story of two unfaithful sisters, Oholah & Oholibah.
Ezekiel 23:1-49
Pastor Gene Pensiero
Series: Cry Me A River (Ezekiel)
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Welcome to our chapter-by-chapter Bible study series on the Old Testament book of Ezekiel with “Ezekiel 23:1-49 – Oho, Oho, A Harlot’s Life For Me.” This expository sermon unpacks Ezekiel 23, an allegory of two unfaithful sisters, Oholah (Samaria) and Oholibah (Jerusalem), representing Israel and Judah’s spiritual idolatry. Perfect for Christians, Bible students, and those exploring spirituality, this Calvary Chapel-style teaching dives into God’s Word to reveal His intimate and incessant love amidst human unfaithfulness.
In this video, we explore how God portrays Samaria and Jerusalem as harlots, unfaithful to Him despite His covenant. Oholah, meaning “her own tabernacle,” and Oholibah, “My tabernacle is in her,” highlight the northern and southern kingdoms’ idolatry after Solomon’s reign—Samaria’s false worship and Jerusalem’s defiled Temple. Ezekiel’s vivid language, paraphrased here for clarity, shows their pursuit of Assyrian and Babylonian lovers, symbolizing alliances with pagan nations and idols. God’s response—judgment through conquest—reflects His holy jealousy and deep sorrow, emotions echoing Hosea 11:8 and Hebrews 4:15, where Jesus sympathizes with us.
This sermon organizes Ezekiel 23 into two points: God’s intimate love (verses 1-10), hurt by spiritual infidelity, and His incessant love (verses 11-49), persisting despite Judah’s worse rebellion. Keywords like idolatry, unfaithfulness, Assyrians, Babylonians, and Egypt connect to New Testament warnings (1 John 5:21, 1 Corinthians 10:14, Colossians 3:5), urging believers to flee idolatry today. We see God’s heart broken by sin, yet His sovereignty unshaken, culminating in Babylon’s 70-year captivity and Israel’s future restoration.
For those searching Bible prophecy, Christianity, or Old Testament studies, this video ties Ezekiel to broader themes—Israel’s 1948 rebirth, the Great Tribulation, and Christ’s return. Whether you’re a Calvary Chapel fan or seeking expository preaching, this teaching equips you to understand God’s emotions and apply His truth. How does spiritual unfaithfulness hurt God today? Reflect with us.
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