that cause me to sigh and groan:
National calamity has fallen on the people of God in OT Judah. God has abandoned His temple because *they were doing detestable things* (from Ezekiel Chpt 8)
1) mixing the religion of Jehovah with that of Baal - the Canaanization of the worship of the Lord, if you will.
2) church leaders portraying all kinds of creepy things on the walls of the Temple - hmmmmm, like icons or extra decorations in the sanctuary.
3) women mourning for Tammuz; historically when the women in a society lose their way, it is a sure sign of the demise of a culture.
4) ordinary members worshipping the gods of their enemies.
These acts of rebellion against the God of Israel by his own people are repeating themselves in our society today. Examples are clear to me. Do you see them?
It is unrealistic of us to think that there have not been nor will be consequences.
Look to Ezekiel 9 for some hints.
God sends seven angels to destroy the city. One is sent out ahead to mark certain citizens. Six others follow and are commanded to kill without showing pity or compassion.
Lord, this deterioration in our churches (and therefore, our nation) grieves me greatly.
Give me strength and grace to bear witness to You.
For Your Name's Sake.
Amen.
Listen to the entire sermon here.
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