1. The exile dramatized (1-20)

The Lord called Ezekiel to be a sign to his rebellious people. Though they did not see or hear, the Lord commanded Ezekiel to leave, in the sight of the people, as if he were being exiled. He did this in the hope that they might ask what he was doing. The Lord told them through Ezekiel that they soon would go into exile as captives. They would face sword, famine and plague. Only a few would survive, while the nation of Israel would be laid waste.

2. Fulfilled without delay (21-28)

The people of Israel were complacent, assuming that every vision either came to nothing or was meant for a time far in the future. The Lord came to fulfill everything, and without delay. The word and the will of the Lord will be fulfilled.