Jesus: “Ezekiel 12:11 is a part of God’s message through the prophet Ezekiel to the people of Israel, particularly to those in exile in Babylon. The verse says, ‘Say, I am your sign: like as I have done, so shall it be done unto them: they shall remove and go into captivity.’ This passage is a symbolic act performed by Ezekiel, serving as a sign to the Israelites of what would come to pass.”
John: “Master, what does it mean that Ezekiel himself is a sign?”
Jesus: “John, prophets in ancient times often performed actions that served as vivid, living illustrations of God’s message to His people. In this case, Ezekiel’s actions—portraying the exile—were meant to be a tangible sign to the Israelites. It was a dramatic way of communicating that just as he enacted the removal and captivity, so too would the people experience this reality.”
Peter: “Lord, why would God want to show this message through a sign?”
Jesus: “Peter, sometimes words alone are not enough to capture the attention of a people who have grown complacent or rebellious. By having Ezekiel perform this sign, God was making the impending consequences of Israel’s disobedience starkly visible and memorable, in hopes of leading them to reflection and repentance.”
Andrew: “How did the people react to Ezekiel’s sign, Master?”
Jesus: “Andrew, the reactions varied. Some were moved to reconsider their ways and heed the warning, while others remained indifferent or skeptical. The heart of the message, however, was to provoke thought and inspire a return to God, emphasizing that the consequences of ignoring His commands were very real.”
Thomas: “Is there a lesson for us in Ezekiel’s actions, Lord?”
Jesus: “Yes, Thomas. The lesson is about heeding God’s warnings and recognizing the signs He provides, whether through His Word, the counsel of godly people, or the circumstances of life. It underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the reality of consequences when His warnings are ignored.”
Matthew: “So, in a way, Ezekiel’s actions were an act of mercy, giving the people a chance to change before it was too late?”
Jesus: “Exactly, Matthew. God’s warnings, even those predicting harsh consequences, are ultimately acts of mercy. They are given to provide an opportunity for repentance, so that people might turn back to God and avoid disaster. God takes no pleasure in the punishment of the wicked but desires that all should come to repentance.”
