This chapter continues the vision of the idolaters as executioners begin killing them off.
“And [God] called to the man… who had the writing case at his waist… ‘Pass through the city, through Jerusalem, and put a mark on the foreheads of the men who sigh and groan over all the abominations that are committed in it.’ And to the [executioners] he said… ‘Pass through the city after him, and strike. Your eye shall not spare, and you shall show no pity. Kill old men outright, young men and maidens, little children and women, but touch no one on whom is the mark…’ So they began with the elders who were before the house.” (v3-6 abr)
In this bloody scene all those who were committing idolatry, including the elders who were defiling the temple, were killed. Only those disapproving of the idolatry are marked and spared. This is reminiscent of the first Passover where obedient followers marked their doorways with blood were spared from death. Though this is a vision, it’s still jarring to think that only a small remnant of the already small remnant of God’s people are spared for their obedience.
This reminds us that obedient followers of God and Jesus will be spared from the penalty of sin (eternal separation from God), though many people still willfully choose disobedience. Sadly Christ followers keep shrinking in number. If you’re ever bored, check out some of the statistics published by Pew Research Group – it’s appalling to see that such a low percentage of the population carries any kind of religious beliefs, and even fewer people attend religious services or pray daily…
Based on scripture and statistics it is critical for Christ’s followers to remain firm in our faith, and to be living testimonies to others. Failing to live out our faith not only hurts us, but it also hurts other’s likelihood of knowing Jesus. Let’s bring joy to God’s heart through our obedience and the Spirit’s kingdom-building work through us.
Father God, we Thank you for continually encouraging us to obey You – not for Your gain, but for ours. Father You do not require our obedience, instead You teach that obedience is for the wellbeing of Your children, especially those around us. Thank you for humbling our hearts, and teaching us to be productive servants, so You may reach others for Jesus’ kingdom. We seek to honor and glorify You, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training