Lessons from Ezekiel 37: God’s Power to Restore
The vision of the dry bones in Ezekiel 37 is one of the most powerful illustrations of God’s ability to restore life to what seems utterly dead. This prophecy was given to Israel in a time of exile and despair, yet it carries a timeless message of hope, renewal, and divine faithfulness. Through Ezekiel’s vision, God reveals His power to restore His people physically, spiritually, and relationally under the reign of the Messiah.
The Vision of the Dry Bones – Ezekiel 37:1–10
Theme: God revives what is lifeless
- Ezekiel 37:1–3: Ezekiel is led by God’s Spirit to a valley filled with dry bones—representing Israel’s hopeless state in exile.
- Ezekiel 37:4–6: God commands Ezekiel to prophesy life into the bones. He promises breath, sinews, and flesh, bringing them back to life.
- Ezekiel 37:7–8: As Ezekiel speaks, the bones come together, covered with flesh, but they have no breath.
- Ezekiel 37:9–10: A second prophecy brings the breath of life into them, and they rise as a vast army.
- Meaning: The dry bones symbolize spiritual death, but God’s Spirit brings renewal and revival.
Future Fulfillment: Revelation 11:11
- In Revelation, the two witnesses are resurrected by God’s breath, symbolizing divine restoration and victory over death.
- This echoes how God revives His people, both physically and spiritually.
Application: Trust in God’s power to revive
- No matter how hopeless a situation appears, God can bring new life.
- Illustration: A dead phone battery comes back to life when plugged in—just as we are recharged by God’s Spirit.
Ezekiel 37:11–20
- Theme: God’s promise to restore Israel.
Known as the vision of the dry bones, this prophecy illustrates God’s power to bring life to what is dead. The scattered bones represent Israel in exile, seemingly lifeless, yet God promises to breathe His Spirit into them and restore them as a unified nation. - Future Fulfillment: Revelation 7:1–8
This promise of restoration echoes in Revelation, where Israel is preserved and brought back into their place of covenant with God. The sealing of the 144,000 emphasizes that God never forgets His promises to His people. - Application: Find hope in God’s promises for restoration.
No situation is too hopeless for God. Trust that He can breathe new life into spiritually barren or broken areas of life.
Ezekiel 37:21–28
- Theme: The unity of God’s people under one King.
This prophecy speaks of God reuniting the divided kingdom of Israel (Judah and Ephraim) under one King, who will reign forever. It foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, who will bring lasting peace and unity to God’s people. - Future Fulfillment: Revelation 5:9–14
This vision finds fulfillment in Revelation, where believers from every tribe, tongue, and nation are united under Jesus, the Lamb of God. He is worshiped as the King who brings all people into one kingdom under His authority. - Application: Work for unity within the body of Christ.
As believers, seek to reflect this unity by fostering peace and cooperation within the church, pointing to the eternal reign of Christ.
Conclusion
Ezekiel 37 is not just about Israel’s restoration—it reveals God’s unchanging nature: He revives, unifies, and purifies His people. The same God who breathed life into dry bones can bring renewal in our lives today. Trust in His power, seek unity, and pursue holiness, knowing His promises are always fulfilled.
Key Takeaway: No situation is too hopeless for God. He restores what is broken, unites His people, and prepares them for His eternal kingdom.
Things to Learn from Jesus in Our Daily Lives
Scripture: Matthew 12:18-21 (AMP)
Introduction
Jesus is the perfect model for living a life that pleases God. In Matthew 12:18-21, we see a prophecy from Isaiah fulfilled in Jesus, revealing key aspects of His character that we can emulate in our daily lives.
Background & Context
This passage in Matthew refers to Isaiah 42:1-4, where God speaks of His chosen servant, Jesus. In contrast to the religious leaders of His time, Jesus carried out His mission with humility, compassion, and justice. The Pharisees sought recognition and power, but Jesus came to serve, uplift the weak, and bring justice with gentleness.
Key Lessons from Jesus’ Life
1. Pleased the Father
“Behold, My Servant whom I have chosen; My Beloved in whom My soul delights.” (Matthew 12:18)
- Jesus lived to fulfill the will of the Father (John 6:38).
- Our lives should aim to please God rather than people (Galatians 1:10).
- Illustration: A child working hard on a project to make his father proud—our goal is to bring joy to God in all we do.
2. Anointed – Empowered by the Holy Spirit
“I will put My Spirit upon Him.” (Matthew 12:18)
- Jesus ministered with the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:18).
- We need the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength daily (Acts 1:8).
- Illustration: A lamp without electricity is useless—without the Holy Spirit, our efforts are powerless.
3. Shared the Gospel
“And He will proclaim justice to the nations.” (Matthew 12:18)
- Jesus preached the good news of salvation to all (Luke 19:10).
- We are called to share the gospel through words and actions (Matthew 28:19-20).
- Illustration: Just as a lighthouse guides ships to safety, we must lead people to Christ through our testimony.
4. Very Sensitive to the Weak
“A battered reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish.” (Matthew 12:20)
- Jesus showed compassion to the broken and struggling.
- We must care for the weak, discouraged, and hurting (Galatians 6:2).
- Illustration: A gardener gently nurtures a weak plant rather than uprooting it—likewise, we must encourage those who are struggling.
5. No Self-Promotion
“He will not quarrel, nor cry out; nor will anyone hear His voice in the streets.” (Matthew 12:19)
- Jesus didn’t seek fame or recognition—He simply did the Father’s work.
- True greatness in God’s kingdom comes through humility (Philippians 2:5-7).
- Illustration: A humble chef prepares delicious meals without seeking attention, just as we should serve without expecting recognition.
6. Victory with Justice
“Until He leads justice to victory. And in His name the Gentiles will hope.” (Matthew 12:20-21)
- Jesus brings justice, righteousness, and ultimate victory over sin.
- Our trust in Him gives us hope and assurance of victory (1 Corinthians 15:57).
- Illustration: A courtroom where a just judge ensures fairness—Jesus ensures justice and righteousness will prevail.
Practical Application
- Live to please God, not people. Evaluate your motives daily.
- Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Pray for His power in your life.
- Share the gospel through your actions and words. Look for opportunities to be a witness.
- Be kind to the weak and struggling. Encourage, rather than criticize.
- Serve with humility, not for recognition. Let your works speak for themselves.
- Trust in Jesus for justice and ultimate victory. He is in control.
Conclusion
Jesus is our perfect example. By following His ways—pleasing the Father, living in the Spirit, sharing the gospel, showing compassion, avoiding self-promotion, and standing for justice—we reflect His character in our daily lives. May we commit to living as He did!
Prayer: Lord, help us to walk as Jesus did, in humility, love, and justice. Fill us with Your Spirit so we may glorify You in all we do. Amen.
Did John the Baptist Doubt Jesus?
Passage: Matthew 11:1-6
Introduction
Doubt is a natural part of human experience, even for the most faithful. In Matthew 11:1-6, we see John the Baptist—once boldly declaring Jesus as the Lamb of God—sending his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are You the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?” This raises questions about John’s faith and the significance of Jesus’ response.
Background and Context
John the Baptist, a forerunner of Christ, had proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah (John 1:29). However, now imprisoned by Herod, John faced discouragement. His circumstances contrasted starkly with his expectations of the Messiah’s immediate triumph and justice. In this passage, John’s question reflects a moment of doubt or desire for reassurance.
Jesus responds by pointing to His works and reminding John of God’s unfolding plan, which included miraculous healings and proclamation of the good news.
Key Points
1. Why Did John Ask Jesus?
- Imprisoned and Disheartened: John was confined and possibly struggling with unmet expectations of Jesus establishing an immediate kingdom.
- Seeking Clarity: John’s question could be seen as a genuine attempt to confirm Jesus’ identity amid his circumstances. He might have wondered why the Messiah’s mission didn’t yet include deliverance for him or judgment on evil.
Illustration: A farmer, despite years of faithful planting, sometimes questions whether the harvest will come when facing a drought.
2. Why Did Jesus Point to Miracles?
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus’ miracles were a direct fulfillment of Isaiah 35:5-6 and Isaiah 61:1, which describe the Messianic age. By highlighting these works, Jesus affirmed His identity in alignment with Scripture.
- Tangible Evidence of His Mission: The blind seeing, the lame walking, and the poor hearing the gospel were signs of divine power and compassion, revealing that the Kingdom of God was already at work.
Illustration: A builder points to the foundation of a house as proof that the structure is secure, even if the finished home isn’t visible yet.
3. What Is the Meaning of Not Getting Offended with Jesus?
- Avoiding Misplaced Expectations: To “not be offended” (v. 6) means not stumbling in faith because Jesus’ methods or timing differ from personal expectations.
- Trusting God’s Sovereignty: It challenges believers to hold onto faith even when God’s plans don’t align with their desires.
Illustration: A traveler trusts the pilot’s navigation, even when turbulence makes the journey seem uncertain.
Practical Application
- Meditate on Jesus’ Compassion to Heal
Jesus’ miracles highlight His deep care for human suffering. Reflect on how He meets spiritual and physical needs with the same compassion today.
“He Himself took our infirmities and carried away our diseases.” (Matthew 8:17) - Address Doubts with Faith
Like John, bring your doubts to Jesus. His Word and works offer reassurance in moments of uncertainty.
“Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24) - Adjust Expectations to Align with God’s Plan
Trust God’s timing and methods, knowing that His ways are higher than ours.
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. (Isaiah 55:8)
Conclusion
John’s question and Jesus’ response remind us that even the faithful can face doubt, but Christ offers assurance through His works and Word. Jesus calls us to trust in His sovereignty and avoid stumbling over unmet expectations, finding peace in His compassionate and miraculous mission.
The True Christian Journey
Reading: Joel 2
Introduction
The journey of a Christian is marked by repentance, restoration, and empowerment. Joel 2 is a clarion call that maps out God’s plan for His people—beginning with a warning, followed by an invitation to repentance, and ending with the hope of restoration and spiritual renewal. This chapter teaches us that no matter the brokenness of the past, God’s grace offers the promise of a transformed future.
Illustration: A sculptor working on a seemingly ruined block of marble carves out a masterpiece. Similarly, God takes our marred lives and restores them into His divine purpose.
Background and Context
The book of Joel, likely written during a time of calamity, addresses the destruction brought by a locust plague—a symbol of God’s judgment and the pressing need for repentance. In chapter 2, Joel shifts focus from a literal plague to the eschatological “Day of the Lord,” a day of reckoning and divine intervention. The chapter transitions from a dire warning to a message of hope, showing God’s character: just and merciful.
Key Points
1. The Day of the Lord: A Call to Awaken (Joel 2:1-11)
- “The day of the Lord is coming.” (v. 1)
This section depicts the severity of God’s judgment with vivid imagery. The darkness, fire, and destruction symbolize the consequences of sin. - Application: A true Christian journey begins with recognizing the urgency of God’s call. Are we alert to His voice in our lives?
2. The Call to Repentance: A Return to the Heart of God (Joel 2:12-17)
- “Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.” (v. 12)
God desires genuine repentance that flows from the heart, not superficial acts. - Illustration: A child who sincerely apologizes for breaking a vase not only acknowledges the wrongdoing but seeks to restore the relationship.
- Application: God’s mercy is available when we truly turn to Him. Examine your heart: Is it fully surrendered to Him?
3. The Promise of Deliverance and Restoration (Joel 2:18-27)
- “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten.” (v. 25)
God promises restoration, demonstrating that no loss is beyond His ability to redeem. - Application: Trust in God’s faithfulness to restore what has been broken in your life. What areas of loss can you invite Him to redeem?
4. The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit: Empowered for the Journey (Joel 2:28-32)
- “I will pour out my Spirit on all people.” (v. 28)
This prophetic promise, fulfilled in Acts 2, signifies the universal availability of God’s Spirit to empower believers. - Illustration: A lamp is useless without oil. Similarly, a Christian life without the Holy Spirit lacks power.
- Application: Embrace the Holy Spirit as your guide and strength. Are you allowing His power to transform and direct your life?
Practical Applications
- Awaken to God’s Call: Set aside time this week to reflect on areas where God is calling you to deeper commitment.
- Repentance with Intention: Practice heartfelt repentance by confessing specific sins and seeking God’s grace.
- Claim God’s Restoration: Write down areas of loss and pray specifically for God’s restoration.
- Walk in the Spirit: Seek a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit through prayer and worship.
Conclusion
Joel 2 offers a roadmap for the true Christian journey: awakening to God’s voice, repenting with all our hearts, trusting in His restoration, and walking empowered by the Holy Spirit. As we heed this call, God transforms our lives and equips us to fulfill His purposes.
Key Verse: “I will pour out my Spirit on all people.” (Joel 2:28)
Let us step forward in faith, knowing that the journey may have challenges, but God’s promises sustain us every step of the way.
Cosmic Signs and the Coming Judgment
Introduction:
The universe declares the glory of God, but what happens when creation itself becomes a harbinger of divine judgment? From blood moons to blackened suns, Scripture vividly portrays supernatural phenomena as warnings and precursors to the “Day of the Lord.” These cosmic events are not random—they are intentional signs pointing to God’s ultimate authority over time, nature, and eternity.
Background and Context:
- Joel 2:31
Written during a time of national repentance, Joel prophesies future cosmic disturbances as precursors to “the great and terrible day of the Lord.” These signs highlight God’s judgment and the need for urgent spiritual renewal. - Acts 2:20
Quoted by Peter during Pentecost, this prophecy links cosmic phenomena with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. It emphasizes God’s sovereignty in orchestrating history and redemption. - 2 Peter 3:10
Peter expands on the Day of the Lord, describing it as sudden and cataclysmic, where the heavens and earth are shaken. This passage underscores the element of surprise and finality in God’s judgment. - Revelation Passages
- Revelation 6:12-14: The sixth seal describes earthquakes, blackened suns, blood-red moons, and falling stars, symbolizing divine wrath.
- Revelation 8:12: The fourth trumpet reveals partial darkening of celestial bodies, emphasizing God’s control over creation as He executes judgment.
Key Points:
- God’s Sovereignty Over Creation
- The Bible consistently presents cosmic disturbances as tools in God’s hands. He commands the sun, moon, and stars to signal His purposes (Psalm 19:1-2).
- Historical eclipses and natural disasters remind us of this sovereignty but also foreshadow future events of greater magnitude.
- Cosmic Signs as Warnings
- Just as a red traffic light signals caution, celestial signs in Scripture serve as divine alerts to repent and prepare.
- Illustration: Imagine an approaching storm cloud—it doesn’t just signal rain; it tells you to find shelter. Similarly, these signs urge us to seek refuge in Christ.
- Urgency of Christ’s Return
- Christ’s second coming is often described as imminent and unexpected, “like a thief in the night” (2 Peter 3:10).
- These signs remind believers to live with a sense of readiness, prioritizing eternal matters over temporal concerns.
Practical Application:
- Recognize God’s Sovereignty
- Acknowledge that all of creation is under God’s control, and these signs are evidence of His divine authority.
- Take Warnings Seriously
- Let these cosmic phenomena serve as wake-up calls to evaluate your relationship with God and realign your priorities.
- Anticipate Christ’s Return
- Live with faith, urgency, and hope, actively preparing for the Day of the Lord.
Reflection Question:
Are you attentive to God’s cosmic signs, and how do they inspire you to live with urgency and faith?
Closing Story:
In 1910, the appearance of Halley’s Comet caused widespread fear, with many interpreting it as a sign of the world’s end. While the event passed without apocalyptic consequences, it served as a reminder of human vulnerability and the need for eternal preparation. Similarly, the cosmic signs described in Scripture challenge us not to fear but to place our faith in God, who holds the universe—and our lives—in His hands.
“Look up, for your redemption is drawing near!” (Luke 21:28).
