The epistle of Second Timothy is considered to be one of Paul’s most personal letters. He is writing during his second and final imprisonment to his trusted and beloved son in the faith. Paul knows his execution is imminent. His concern is not for himself, but for Timothy, who must continue in the spiritual battle. His theme, “the good soldier of Jesus Christ” follows that of first Timothy, “Fight the good fight” (1Ti 1:18; 1Ti 6:12).
Gene Cunningham - September 25, 2003
Ezekiel #20
Hosea's marraige to a whore illustrates the love of the Lord for His people. Israel is still without a king, but the next they get will be the King of Kings. (Hos 3:1-5). Ezekiel sings a funeral dirge for Israel's Davidic dynasty (Eze 19:1-14). Analogy of a lioness (Gen 49:10) and her cubs. One lion was ravaging his own nation, so put in a cage depicts king being taken into captivity (Eze 19:2-9, Jer 22:10-13). Jehoiachin—Coniah— was godless king leading his nation astray (2Ki 23:31-34, Jer 22:24-26, 2Ki 24:8-12). "Branches" refers to scepters used by Israel's kings. From 606 - 586 B.C. Nebuchadnezzar is God's instrument of discipline (Eze 19:10-14). The "branch of David" is the Messiah (Isa 4:2, Isa 11:1, Jer 23:5, Zec 3:8). "My servant the Branch", (Zec 6:12), "The Branch is the Lord of Righteousness" Jer 33:16). Jesus was called a Nazarene: Nazareth means "branch" (Mat 2:23). In time of Ezekiel who judges Israel? Jesus Christ — the fire comes out of the branch (Eze 19:14, Heb 12:29). When God judges a nation he begins with His own people (1Pe 4:17, Eze 9:6). He teaches the nation how to die. At second advent He rights the wrongs (Rev 19:11-16)
Scripture References: Ezekiel 9:6, Ezekiel 19:2-9, Jeremiah 23:5, Hebrews 12:29, Genesis 49:10, Isaiah 11:1, Ezekiel 19:14, Ezekiel 19:1-14, Isaiah 4:2, Matthew 2:23, Hosea 3:1-5, Ezekiel 19:10-14, Jeremiah 33:16, Jeremiah 22:24-26, Zechariah 6:12, Revelation 19:11-16, Jeremiah 22:10-13, Zechariah 3:8
From Series: "Ezekiel - 2002"
Ezekiel's vision of God's glory effected his life.