How does one make sense of a bizarre prophet like Ezekiel with his shocking symbolic actions and out-of-this-world visionary experiences? Not without patient exegesis and considerable humility. But the effort is worth it because this choice servant of Yahweh has an enduring message that leaves an imprint on the teaching of the great Servant of the Lord, Jesus of Nazareth. This book, intended for the general reader, is not a commentary proper but a portal into the wild and wonderful world of this priest-prophet, the third voice of a prophetic trio, the so-called "major prophets" (Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel). The author demonstrates an underlying theological unity that links Ezekiel with not only his fellow prophets, especially his contemporary Jeremiah, but also the entire canon of Scripture. The author wants readers to grasp the essential burden of Ezekiel's book, namely, to hope in the God of all comfort and hope because he will raise his people from their graves! And not only will the holy God restore his people to holiness and righteousness, he will dwell with them forever. That hope is the mainstay for God's people yesterday, today, and forever.
