Some people believe that the Bible is a recording of historical writings of a time passed. They believe that so much has changed through the generations, that little can be pertinent in today’s world.
Others believe that the Bible, and in particular the Old Testament, is comprised of metaphors, and parables, not historical occurrences from which we may discern examples for guidance.
I believe that these are both flawed. They limit the perception of God’s ability, and they try to quantify the will of God to man's terms, and limitations.
I believe that it is spiritually, if not literally obvious that these biblical occurrences are real, physical occurrences, that have been recorded according to God’s will, for preservation to all generations for their learning. Their appearance in the biblical record is for their use, as metaphorical, and parabolic references, to the benefit of each generation in their daily lives.
It seems clear to me that to render, in our own judgement, that biblical records are either made up from the “imagination of God,” or not applicable in our modern culture and civil society, is antithetical with the concept, “believing the Bible.”
In this spirit, I refer to Ezekiel, chapter 33. In verses two through seven, we read that God was sending the “sword” to Israel. Scripture certifies that this “sword” would arrive in the hand of King Nebuchadnezzar, and that it would be in God’s judgement of Israel for their rejection of Him, his “watchmen,” and His warnings.
In verse two it is suggested that the people might set a watchman to warn of impending judgement, but in verse seven God declares that it is He that has set this watchman, and it is also suggested that this watchman is Ezekiel.
Once again, let’s establish that this HAPPENED to Israel, but it has been recorded so that future generations, including our present generation might recognize the parallel principal of God’s judgement, and behave accordingly, in the reverence of God, and His warnings.
I believe that this Word IS THE WATCHMAN to our generation. We either hear the “voice” of this “watchman,” and obey, or we will suffer the consequences. Exactly what this will look like is God’s to say. I don’t claim to be that prophet. I am only recognizing the signs of our times.
It is interesting to notice that in this record, we learn that this warning, and it’s relevance is to a nation that has rejected the Lord. It addresses the whole nation, but it is suggested that some members of that nation may honor the warning by repenting, and others might choose to ignore it. I believe that this is metaphorically indicative of our present nation, the Church, and God’s judgement on the governance of the USA.
This nation is governed by, “WE THE PEOPLE.” We either respect, and obey God the Father, or we do not. We either respect, and obey His judgement, or we will suffer the consequences. There is no other option, and this fact IS BECAUSE of the mercy, and grace of God.
“And, lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not. And when this cometh to pass, (lo, it will come,) then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them.”
Ezekiel 33:32-33 NASB
I also believe that if we, as citizens, and Christians, see the warning, recognize it as such, and we do not proclaim it faithfully, the “blood” of our nation, in judgement for its sin will be required at the hand of them that do not sound the alarm. I hope not to have this sin to my account.
Once again, I don’t know what this judgement will look like, but I do believe that it will happen.
God bless you, Dave