Encountering the Old Testament, 3rd Edition

Materials available for professors by request only

Request Exam Copy

Chapter

30. Ezekiel 25–48: God Is Planning an Exciting Future!

Why do you think Ezekiel paid so much attention to Egypt in his oracles?
If oracles against nations were to be proclaimed today, which nations do you think would be included? Why?
What is the most important consideration we should make when interpreting Ezekiel 40–48?
What do you think the purpose was for the gates of Jerusalem being given tribal names?
Why is there so much controversy about interpretations of Ezekiel 40–48?

Divide the class into seven groups. Assign one of the nations to each group. Ask the groups to identify the reason why Ezekiel proclaimed an oracle against the nation. Conclude with a sharing period with the entire class. Class time allowed: 25 minutes.
Break the class into groups of five students. Assign either the physical or the spiritual restoration to each group. Ask the groups to evaluate Israel today to see if any of these signs have been fulfilled. Conclude with a general class discussion of the topic. Class time allowed: 25 minutes.
Divide the class into groups of five or six students each. Ask the students to identify common themes of warning in Ezekiel 25–29. Conclude with a feedback session in which the themes are written on the board as they are discussed by the groups. Class time allowed: 25 minutes.