Description

In today’s episode the hosts dive into the first half of the Book of Ezekiel, exploring its vibrant imagery, historical context, and theological significance. The discussion covers Ezekiel’s background as a priest in the Babylonian exile, the radical idea of God’s presence with the exiled people, and the shift from communal to individual responsibility in Israel’s relationship with God. The hosts also unpack Ezekiel’s dramatic visions, prophetic sign acts, and the challenging metaphors used throughout the text.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The historical context of Ezekiel: Babylonian exile, the fall of Jerusalem, and his priestly background.
• Ezekiel’s unique perspective as a priest and prophet in exile.
• The importance of context when interpreting Ezekiel’s fantastical language and visions.
• The radical message that God is present with the exiles, not just in Jerusalem.
• The shift from communal to individual responsibility for sin and righteousness (Ezekiel 18).
• The significance of Ezekiel’s visions: wheels within wheels, four faces on the creatures, and their symbolic meanings.
• Prophetic sign acts: Ezekiel’s theatrical demonstrations of God’s judgment.
• The metaphor of Jerusalem as an unfaithful spouse and its implications.
• The role of the Holiness Code and priestly tradition in Ezekiel’s theology.
• Reflections on the suffering of ordinary people during exile and the tension between communal and individual consequences.
• Preview of the second half of Ezekiel including: judgment against other nations and then the prophecies of restoration.

Don’t miss our video series on the Tabernacle and the Glory of God, part of our expanded Cross Connections content available on our website or on our YouTube channel.

Cross Connections is a ministry of ⁠⁠St. David’s Episcopal Church in Wayne, PA⁠⁠. Season two, Cover to Cover, is hosted by the Rev. Rick Morley, Elliot VanHoy, and Natalee Hill.

A full copy list of readings for 2025 may be found on ourwebsite at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stdavidschurch.org/crossconnections⁠⁠

⁠If you have questions for us, you can call us at 484.588.5656 and leave a voicemail with your name, where you’re from, and your question or comment. Please note, we may use your recorded voice in an upcoming episode of Cross Connections. You can also email us at ⁠⁠crossconnections@stdavidschurch.org⁠⁠.

Logo graphic design and podcast production by Natalee Hill.Stock Media Music provided by Marscott and MoodMode / ⁠⁠Pond5⁠⁠.

You are welcome to learn more about all of St. David’sworship offerings and ministries at ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://stdavidschurch.org/⁠⁠.