“Son of man,” he said, “do you see what they are doing? Do you see the detestable sins the people of Israel are committing to drive me from my Temple? But come, and you will see even more detestable sins than these!” [Ezekiel 8.6]
All of Ezekiel 8 and 9 talk about the conditions of Israel and its leaders. It was not a pretty picture. To summarize, they had basically brought all manner of outside influence into their worship of God - they had brought detestable idols into the Temple.
Look at Ezekiel 9.4 however:
He said to him, “Walk through the streets of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of all who weep and sigh because of the detestable sins being committed in their city.” [Ezekiel 9.4]
The sentence of annihilation was put upon Israel except for those who had repented and remained repentant.
How does this apply to the Church today?
Well, how much does the Church look like Christ? Let's consider the contrast: how much does the Church look like Christ in comparison to how much it looks like the world?
Ouch.
Does the Church have on its forehead the mark of repentance? In a word, no.
The message of repentance must be preached today.
The method of repentance must be practiced today.
The mark of repentance must be present today.
Why? So God's people will be spared His judgment upon the nations of the world steeped in sin and debauchery.
Father, may the mark of repentance be found upon me today and for as long as I shall live on this earth!
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