Such is the solemn burden with which the prophet Ezekiel closes almost every paragraph of his prophecy: the proposed result of all the judgments denounced and all the mercies promised by God through his ministration. A result so announced, so repeated, cannot be unimportant.
I. When we come seriously to consider the matter, shall we not find that it is a lesson worth knowing at any price at the price of home and comfort, of wealth and vigour, yea, of life itself, if need be? For let us think on the importance of this knowledge to know that God is the Lord. On this, in a rational and responsible being, all real and enduring happiness depends. God is the Author of his life, the only satisfying object of his soul's desire. On communion with Him, on grace derived from Him, on growing in likeness to Him, depend both his present and his advancing power for good. To know Him, not only leads on to eternal life, but it is eternal life itself.
II. Let us endeavour to sketch the boundaries of this knowledge, and give some idea of its nature, and how it is brought about. Man of himself has it not, he requires teaching it. Moreover, it is not a knowledge which any education, however complete, could confer upon us. Education may teach the knowledge of God's works, may make a man conversant with the interesting and glorious details of creation, but it cannot teach the knowledge of God Himself. You may, and often do, find the accomplished natural philosopher, the accurate and experienced historian, the minute Biblical scholar, yet in total ignorance of the knowledge implied in those words, "Ye shall know that I am the Lord."
III. "Ye shall know that I am Jehovah." It is God's promise to His people. And it is a crowning promise one that includes all others in itself. For the more knowledge there is of God, the more love will there be towards Him; and the more love there is towards Him the more enjoyment there will be of Him; so that they who know Him best shall stand highest in the ranks of the blessed.
H. Alford, Quebec Chapel Sermons,vol. ii., p. 120.
Reference: Ezekiel 14:11. Clergyman's Magazine,vol. xv., p. 146.