In chapters 38-42 not only does God give Ezekiel measurements for the new temple, He also tells him of a final attack that will happen against Israel in the last days. After the Jewish people have been regathered to their homeland and are living in peace, Gog comes up against them in war and is utterly destroyed by God. From that day forward Israel receives Jesus as her Savior (39:22), and the whole world sees firsthand the power and might of the Lord. “I will magnify Myself, sanctify Myself, and make Myself known in the sight of many nations; and they will know that I am the Lord.” (vs. 38:23)
Throughout history people have denied the existence of God, and scoffed at His Word. They reject His gift of salvation calling it folly, and ridicule those who follow Him. His holy name, instead of being spoken with reverence, fear, and love, is used as a form of cursing, and thrown around like just another word. And when warned of the soon return of Jesus they mock the message saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” (2 Pet. 3:4)
Now if it were you or me being constantly discredited, our first response would be to fight back; to silence the critics. We would quickly want to prove them wrong and restore our honor. And because of our love for God, and out of concern for His glory and reputation, we want the same for Him. We wonder why God lets those who defame Him go unpunished, and we cry out, “How long will the enemy mock you, God? Will the foe revile your name forever? Arise, O God, and plead Your own cause; remember how the foolish man reproaches You all day long.”(Ps. 74:10,22) But we must remember that the Creator of time is not bound to it, and everything happens according to His timetable and not ours.
But those who dare scoff at God and profane His name, would do well to not mistake His patience for weakness. His patience comes from His perfect love and desire that everyone would receive the chance to accept His gift of eternal life. “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing any to perish but for all to come to repentance.”(2 Pet. 3:9) But make no mistake. God will not wait forever. The day of the Lord will come, and on that day, “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Phil. 2:10–11)
Sooner rather than later, God promises, “My holy name I will make known in the midst of My people Israel; and I will not let My holy name be profaned anymore. And the nations will know that I am the Lord, the Holy One in Israel.” (vs. 39:7) On that day when Jesus returns and the truth can no longer be denied, the scoffers will forever be silenced, and all will say, “Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name!”
My soul is filled with joy
As I sing to God my Savior:
You have looked upon your servant,
You have visited your people.
And holy is your name
Through all generations!
Everlasting is your mercy
To the people you have chosen,
And holy is your name.
(author unknown)
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