Source: Marvin A. Sweeney, Reading Ezekiel: A Literary and Theological Commentary, Reading the Old Testament Series (Macon, GA: Smyth & Helwys Publishing, Incorporated, 2013), 1–21.
This video outlines the prophetic ministry of Ezekiel during the Babylonian Exile, detailing a chronological progression of his visions and oracles from his initial commission as a prophet and "watchman." The early messages emphasize judgment against Israel for its idolatry and wickedness, symbolized by the depiction of temple abominations and YHWH's departure before the destruction of Jerusalem. While announcing imminent punishment, the text also introduces themes of hope, asserting YHWH will act as a "small sanctuary" for the people in exile and promising a future restoration with a new heart and spirit. Furthermore, Ezekiel's prophecies extend beyond Israel to pronounce judgment against surrounding nations for their pride and vengeful actions, culminating in a future vision of the defeat of Gog and the ultimate restoration of the land and the temple, which signifies an ideal, renewed covenant with YHWH.
Ezekiel is in Babylonian exile.
Undated, Early in Exile: Ezekiel receives his inaugural vision (Ezekiel 1:1–3:15), including the approach of YHWH's throne chariot and his commission as a prophet. He is commanded to eat a scroll containing messages of judgment.
Seven Days After Inaugural Vision: YHWH speaks again to Ezekiel (Ezekiel 3:16), commissioning him as a watchman and instructing him through symbolic actions to convey the message of judgment (Ezekiel 3:16–5:17). These actions include portraying the fates of different classes of Israelites.
After Ezekiel 5:17 (likely shortly after): YHWH gives Ezekiel oracles against the highlands of Israel (Ezekiel 6:1–14), announcing punishment for cultic practices and idolatry.
After Ezekiel 6:14 (likely shortly after): YHWH delivers the primary oracle concerning the condemnation of Israel (Ezekiel 7:1-27), using the Day of YHWH tradition as a motif for judgment against those who act against YHWH's will.
Vision of the Temple Abominations (Ezekiel 8): Ezekiel is shown the abominations committed in the temple, which YHWH sees as a provocation.
Preparation for Destruction and Marking the Spared (Ezekiel 9): YHWH emerges from the Holy of Holies, indicating intent to depart. A man in white linen marks those who mourn the abominations to be spared from the ensuing slaughter. Old men, young men and women, women, and children without the mark are ordered to be killed.
Preparation to Destroy the City with Fire (Ezekiel 10): Ezekiel describes YHWH's divine presence and the preparations to destroy Jerusalem with fire, symbolized by burning off the residue in a fouled pot.
Vision of the People's Rejection and YHWH as a "Small Sanctuary" (Ezekiel 11:14–21): YHWH acknowledges the people's belief that they will possess the land and remain secure, despite their wickedness. YHWH states they will go into exile but will serve as a "small sanctuary" for them while in foreign lands. YHWH promises restoration, a new heart, and a new spirit.
Oracles Concerning the Imminent Fulfillment of YHWH's Oracles (Ezekiel 12:21–28): YHWH disputes the people's belief that the visions are for distant times, stating that YHWH's word will no longer be delayed.
Oracles Against False Prophets (Ezekiel 13): YHWH instructs Ezekiel to deliver judgment speeches against male and female prophets who prophesy falsely, announcing punishment against them for leading the people astray and claiming their own inventions are from YHWH.