5:1-4
We now come to the final act in the drama. This time Ezekiel is to take a sharp sword and shave his head and beard. After that he is to divide up the hair into three portions. A third of the hair is to be burnt, a third is to be struck by the sword, and a third thrown to the wind. This is all done to signify the judgement that awaits the city. A third will be destroyed within the walls. A third will be pursued by the sword, and the remainder will be dispersed among the nations. A few were to be taken aside, this represents the remnant, which is frequently mentioned in the prophets. A fire would spread from this remnant. We could see this final fire as more judgement, or as repentance and salvation spreading to all Israel from this remnant.
5:5-8
God now gives an explanation of the drama. Jerusalem had been set in the centre of the nations. Likewise the church has been set in the centre of the world. Israel, and the church, was meant to be a demonstration to the world of the way to live. But she had rejected the Lord and rebelled against all His ways. Indeed, she was worse than the nations! So God pronounced judgement upon her. Punishment would be inflicted upon her in the sight of the nations. As God’s people we will be a demonstration to the world. Either of the blessings of being the Lord’s people if we are faithful, or of the judgement that is to come if we are unfaithful.
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