Bible Challenge: UCG.org Interpretation of Ezekiel 21 Rejected by Readers
A daily devotional posted for November 10 disputes a popular theological claim regarding the transfer of power to Queen Elizabeth, citing Ellicott's Commentary instead.
By Olivia Miller ·
A daily Bible reading challenge posted for November 10 disputes a specific interpretation of Ezekiel 21:27 circulating on UCG.org. The source argues that the Hebrew word for "overturn" in that verse does not indicate a transfer of power from Judah to Queen Elizabeth.
The post identifies the phrase "until he come whose right it is" as the central meaning of the verse. It connects this phrase to Genesis 49:10, which references Shiloh. The text directs readers to Ezekiel 34:23 and Daniel 7:14 for further context regarding the one who comes.
In analyzing Ezekiel 22:3, the author contrasts major commandments with minor ritual rules. The post states that God focused on false gods and murder rather than the shaving of beards mentioned in Leviticus 21:5. It draws a parallel to the Pharisees in Matthew 7:3 and 23:23, suggesting they observed smaller commands while neglecting worship.
The devotional lists sins from Ezekiel 22:6 to 22:13, including bloodshed, oppression, lewdness, and usury. It notes that justifying one sin makes it easier to justify another. The root of these issues is identified as forgetting God, based on Ezekiel 22:12.
Hebrews 10 is examined to contrast Old Testament sacrifices with the New Covenant. The post observes that there were no chairs in the Temple, implying the sacrificial work was never finished. It contrasts this with Jesus Christ sitting at the right hand of God, citing Ephesians 1:20 and Colossians 3:1. The text notes an exception in Acts 7:55, where Jesus is recorded standing after His resurrection to welcome Stephen.
The analysis of Hebrews 10:17 claims the New Covenant makes God forget sins rather than covering them. The post includes Psalm 108:5 and Proverbs 27:12. In the Proverbs section, it mocks economists who predicted nine of the last five recessions. It advises readers to live holy lives and let God handle finances rather than simply hoarding wealth.
The challenge includes readings from Ezekiel 21:1 to 22:31, Hebrews 10:1 to 17, Psalm 108:1 to 13, and Proverbs 27:12. Readers are invited to share their experiences via email to 2018bible@vcyamerica.org or by calling 414-885-5370.
