September 18, 2018

Read – Ezekiel 26What does it say?
The Sovereign Lord would bring Nebuchadnezzar against Tyre. The city would be sought, but it would never again be found.

What does it mean?
Like Ammon in the previous chapter, Tyre sought to prosper by Jerusalem’s ruin. Both cities had lucrative trade routes: Tyre by sea and Jerusalem by caravan. When Babylon destroyed Jerusalem, Tyre anticipated a monopoly on trade, but the Lord would direct Babylon to turn its fury on Tyre as well. Unlike Jerusalem, nothing from Tyre would remain or ever be rebuilt. One of Ezekiel’s main themes, the Sovereignty of God, is repeated seven times in this chapter – each time emphasizing the finality and authority of what God said.

How should I respond?
Today’s passage offers evidence of the reliability of God’s Word. People can still walk through the ancient ruins of Tyre today. The city ceased to exist, just as God said it would. Today, God communicates with believers through the Bible. As His written word, Scripture should have the final authority for how we respond and live. Even on issues that aren’t addressed by a direct command, the Bible speaks to attitudes and character traits and gives principles that guide our decision-making. What is He saying to you through His Word this week? When God speaks, it’s the final word on the matter.