“GOD IN EXILE”
(Ezekiel 1:1-3:27)
And above the expanse over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire;[g] and seated above the likeness of a throne was a likeness with a human appearance. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking. – Ezekiel 1:26, 28b
As we step into Ezekiel’s world be prepared for shock and beauty. We’ll encounter vivid visions, poetry, parables acted out in public, prophecies of doom, revelations of promise. God departs, God returns. Death falls, life arises. Even when it looks like wrath, mercy sustains.
God’s warning to Israel regarding judgment for their backsliding has now become reality. Ezekiel was among the first captives taken to Babylon (modern day Iraq). Ezekiel was a priest and at 30 years old he should have been just starting his official ministry in the Temple in Jerusalem. Instead, he finds himself in a refugee camp beside a canal in Babylon. This is where God gives him extraordinary visions and a prophetic word for God’s people. Sadly, they’d still reject God’s call to repentance.
In Ezekiel 1, the heavens open. Ezekiel sees a stormy whirlwind, fiery splendor, four living creatures, and wheels within wheels. Above it all glows the radiant “likeness of the glory of the Lord” – God enthroned on a celestial chariot. It is a profound statement – God’s glory is not confined to Jerusalem’s Temple. God has gone into exile with His people.
So God commissions Ezekiel to serve as a “watchman” for Israel. The people will reject Ezekiel, but God’s message will stand. Ultimately, a message of hope. The exile will end, but first hearts will be reshaped. God will not merely restore the nation, He will resurrect the people – empowered by His Spirit, indwelt anew, and shaped for holiness.
What we learn from Ezekiel is that God is never confined by geography, circumstance, or even human failure. In exile or in abundance, His glory pursues broken people, turning judgment into restoration and offering hope that transcends temple, nation, and age.
Application
- God is present in our darkest places. Ezekiel saw God not in the temple, but in Babylon. Even in exile, God reveals His glory. In your seasons of loss, confusion, regret – He is present and active.
- God speaks to the willing, not just to the worthy. Ezekiel was in a refugee camp when the heavens opened. A displaced priest without a temple – but God chose him to be His prophet. Your location, background, current situation do not disqualify you. God speaks to the humble and attentive.
Closing Prayer
Lord of Glory, in the chaos of exile and uncertainty, You remain enthroned above all. Open my eyes to see Your glory even in places I never expected You to be. Let my heart be shaped by Your Spirit, purified in exile, and prepared for renewal. Let Your glory dwell with me. Amen.
About our Author
John A Pra was born and raised in Queens, NY and has lived almost all of his life in the metropolitan area. After graduating from Bible college (now University of Valley Forge) he entered into full-time pastoral ministry. John and his wife, Diana, have been living in Carlstadt since 1990, pastoring Cornerstone Church and now at Transformation Life Church since 2022.
John and Diana have been married for 39 years and have three children and one granddaughter (who owns them). Besides loving time spent with family, he enjoys sports, reading, travel, and the golf course.
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