Dr. Lawrence Butler, The Bridge Church, Pembroke

Perhaps you remember our earlier presentation on Ezekiel that he was a priest and a prophet. He was not loved and appreciated. In fact, he was warned by God that the people would not receive his messages because they had turned away from Jehovah. The people of Jerusalem were described as stubborn and rebellious, continuing to refuse to repent despite being warned time and again. There are four distinct examples of idolatry presented in chapter 8 of this book.

The first example the Lord reveals to Ezekiel is the “image of jealousy” found in Jerusalem (v. 3). It is presented as being in “the door of the inner gate.” In verse 5 this image is stated to be at “the gate of the altar.” Right at the place of sacrifice to the Lord we find this image was set up for worship. It is called an “image of jealousy” because the Lord is jealous over His people and refuses to share His glory with any false god.

The second example revealed to Ezekiel is found in verses 7-12. There he sees 70 elders of Israel worshipping before the idols of Israel. Various animal forms are seen there which can probably be traced back to their sojourn in Egypt. Even after all these years they still have roots from Egypt that attract them away from true Jehovah worship. In addition, the paintings portrayed upon the wall seem to be a reflection of the Chaldean influence from he north. They were trying to get deliverance from the northern enemy (Babylon) as well as from the southern enemy (Egypt). Both were threatening Israel and the Jews wanted one to help them against the other.

The third example of idolatry revealed to Ezekiel is found in verse 14. There we find women weeping for Tammuz. This god is mentioned nowhere else in the Bible and is thought to be a Greek god. The women may have been deeply involved in illicit activities as temple prostitutes.

The fourth sin the Lord revealed to Ezekiel is revealed in verse 16. Here we find the men have turned their backs toward the holy temple and are facing the sun. Apparently, they were worshipping the sun god and seeking blessing from him. The 25 men may represent the high priest and the heads of the 24 courses of the priesthood established by David.

This revelation from God shows why destruction came, not deliverance, for Israel.