This is one of the most well known sections of the book of Ezekiel. There are varied views regarding its interpretation. Undoubtedly many of the verses refer literally to the king of Tyre, Ithobal II, but equally as many statements can also refer to the one behind that proud king, Satan himself. A similar passage occurs in Isaiah 14. There Satan is seen as the one behind the king of Babylon. In both passages we are given a glimpse behind the scenes into the spiritual world. The king of Tyre thought he had so much of which he could be proud. His city was powerful and was the leader of the commercial world of that day. Its fleet was the strongest and sailed further than any others. But the sin of pride is hated by God whether it is in man or angelic being. In the case of Satan, it was pride which was his undoing. Not content with the wonderful position he had among the angels in heaven, he wanted more. In verses 13-14 there is a word picture of a remarkable being with tremendous privileges. Then come the sad words of verses 15-17 describes his fall. In Isaiah 14 we are given his thoughts put into words. "I will raise my throne above the stars of God...I will make myself like the Most High..." Ezekiel adds (v.17), "Your heart became proud," Then follows the reaction of God, "I threw you to the earth." Christ said, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven."(Luke 10:18) It is tragic to think what pride could do. But it is a major lesson for us. We can easily think more of ourselves than we should. We can become proud of our gifts, of our service for Christ, or of other areas in our lives. What did Paul say? "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment..." (Romans 12:3) Have we often been guilty of the sin of pride? Is that why God can't use us as He wants to? If so let us confess our sin and seek to be more like what God wants us to be in Christ. |
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