Life and Witness of Ezekiel
Ebook
Overview
How does one make sense of a bizarre prophet like Ezekiel with his shocking symbolic actions and out-of-this-world visionary experiences? Not without patient exegesis and considerable humility. But the effort is worth it because this choice servant of Yahweh has an enduring message that leaves an imprint on the teaching of the great Servant of the Lord, Jesus of Nazareth. This book, intended for the general reader, is not a commentary proper but a portal into the wild and wonderful world of this priest-prophet, the third voice of a prophetic trio, the so-called "major prophets" (Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel). The author demonstrates an underlying theological unity that links Ezekiel with not only his fellow prophets, especially his contemporary Jeremiah, but also the entire canon of Scripture. The author wants readers to grasp the essential burden of Ezekiel's book, namely, to hope in the God of all comfort and hope because he will raise his people from their graves! And not only will the holy God restore his people to holiness and righteousness, he will dwell with them forever. That hope is the mainstay for God's people yesterday, today, and forever.
“The book of Ezekiel is stubborn in its resistance to
interpretation. Helyer nonetheless offers a winsome, accessible
introduction to the book. He takes seriously the playful, elusive
imagery of the book but insists that what is imaginative in the
words of the prophet must be linked to the historical context of
Ezekiel’s time. . . . This book will be a welcome entry
point into Scripture that refuses easy access but holds rich
resources for faith.”
—Walter Brueggemann, Columbia Theological Seminary
“This expertly written book does more than tell the complex story
of the prophet Ezekiel. Rather, its focus is on a broader, grander
theme, comparatively illustrating how the Ezekiel story connects to
other Old Testament prophets as well as to New Testament
narratives, including Revelation. Its sweep is majestic if not
breathtaking, pointing ultimately to the cosmic center, Jesus the
Christ, as King of kings and Lord of lords. An inspiring and very
helpful read.”
—Eugene B. Habecker, president emeritus, Taylor
University
Larry R. Helyer is professor emeritus of biblical studies at Taylor University. He is the author of numerous books on the Bible.