In the fourth part of the series beginning with “C” subtitles we come today to two more subjects…
Coming
“‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: In the first month on the first day you are to take a young bull without defect and purify the sanctuary.” (Ezekiel 45:18)
Praise God, in the soon to come dispensation (Millennium — See Rev 20) when the massive “Ezekiel” temple (Ezekiel 40-48) would be built in Jerusalem, there would still be the Lunar Calendar, which the Jews go by presently. But resumption of animal sacrifices? Boy, while Jewish sacrifices were continual, was not Christ’s sacrifice conclusive (Heb 10:12,14) as the Epistle of Hebrews bears out? Yes! Then why sacrifices in the Millennium? For the Redeemed of Jewish background to remember what it cost their Saviour to procure their Salvation, just as we of the existing dispensation participate in the Lord’s Table (1 Cor 11:23-32) to remember His indescribable atoning sacrifice for our sins.
Cherished
“In the twenty-seventh year, in the first month on the first day, the word of the LORD came to me:” (Ezekiel 29:17)
One of the most comforting promises of the Bible is that the Lord delights in us (Zeph 3:17/Eph 1:11 TLB). So would He hide any of His plans from those He cherishes (Genesis 18:17)? No way, as these scripture portions underscore the age-old Truth…
“‘Should I hide my plan from Abraham?’ God asked.” (Genesis 18:17)
“Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.” (Amos 3:7)
Is it any wonder then that a “New Year Gift” was given to faithful Prophet Ezekiel by way of revelation on the “gift” the Lord was planning to give to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon for his tireless “ministry” of 13 years in Tyre (Ezekiel 29:20 TLB)? In this era of Grace, when He wants all of His cherished children to be Prophets (1 Cor 14:1-2), He is bound to give visions to us in order that we prophesy (Joel 2:28-29). When I say, “Prophesy,” I am not only speaking about foretelling, but also forthtelling with conviction laced with tender love.
Let’s all of us, His cherished ones, resolve to “ask, seek and knock” (increasing order of intensity of prayers) for more prophecies in line with His Sovereign Will in order that we may edify our brethren (1 Cor 14:4 TLB) and even win souls (1 Cor 14:24-25 TLB) for His Kingdom.
Prayer: Father, how grateful we are that You are willing that all of us ought to be Your Prophets. We praise Thee once again in Jesus’ Name.
Suresh Manoharan
An unprofitable servant
J and SM Ministries
To access the entire “The First Day of the First Month” mini-series, please click here.)