The BIG 3 Ezekiel 14:12-14 January 23 - AM

Our text and title I was asked to preach a sermon on Ezekiel 14:14 - Even if these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they would deliver only themselves by their righteousness,” says the Lord GOD. (NKJV) (The Message Bible) even if Noah, Daniel, and Job--the Big Three--were alive at the time, it wouldn't do the population any good. Their righteousness would only save their own lives." Decree of GOD, the Master.

Background Ezekiel was the prophet in captivity in Babylon He is explaining the reason for the captivity When a land (country, nation) sins – Even Noah, Daniel, or Job could not save the nation

Application of the text It was not the fault of Ezekiel that the people were wicked Prophets can warn But they can’t make people change Ezekiel was to warn – Ezekiel 3:17 - Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me:

Application of the text Noah – after 120 years – saved himself and 7 family members Daniel – saved himself – and 3 young men Job – saved only himself

Application of the text We often think about the BIG success stories Peter – 3,000 on Pentecost Paul – missionary journeys Jonah – saved Ninevah (120,000 souls) The BIG THREE – also were faithful in warning and preaching the message

Application for Today Preachers, elders – can’t save your soul Elders can’t save our young people Preachers can’t bring all the wandering sheep back to the church Preachers can teach, preach - WARN

Application for Today Preachers can’t MAKE people live moral lives Preachers can’t MAKE people obey the gospel of Christ Preachers can’t MAKE people have faith and dedication In the end – we can only save ourselves

We Often Think: If we had a preacher like Paul or Peter – we would be really doing great things If I had lived at the time of Jesus – I would have been a true follower If I had lived at the time of Noah – there would have been 9 on the Ark If I had lived in Babylon – I would have been praying with Daniel

We Often Think: If I had lived at the time of Job – I would have encouraged (not discouraged) him NOT TRUE! Luke 16:30-31 - 30And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ 31But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’”

Conclusion: Ezekiel 14:14 places the responsibility for your soul – on YOU. Preachers, elders, prophets and apostles can help – teach, warn. But, when all is said and done, each can only save themselves. Philippians 2:12b - work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;