In Ezekiel, the depths of Israel’s sin and rebellion are exposed. They have turned to the idols of the surrounding nations. They have desecrated the temple of the Lord and brutally persecuted His prophets. They mistreat the poor and disregard God’s laws. Because of Israel’s rebellion, God is withdrawing from and destroying Jerusalem. But He doesn’t leave them without hope. He chooses Ezekiel to speak for Him to the people, to show them their error and teach them justice: Say to them, “As I live!” declares the Lord GOD, “I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn back, turn back from your evil ways! Why then will you die, O house of Israel?”