The Healing Waters

The Healing Waters

Ezek. 47:12

The contents of these 12 verses of the 47th chapter of Ezekiel are capable of differing interpretations. Those who would literalize must certainly acknowledge that there are some problems hard to solve. Adam Clarke offers four different possibilities. The one he seems to favor has much support from biblical scholars and from reason. This flowing stream of water is to be understood spiritually or typically. It shows the effusion of light and salvation by the outpouring of the Spirit of God under the gospel dispensation by which the knowledge of God spread throughout the earth. Therefore, this river that was small in its beginning became wider and deeper until the whole earth received blessing.

The stream had its source in the Temple which to believers in our time is the Church of Jesus Christ. It flows past the altar of sacrifice. It reaches into the desert areas of the world. There are the unbelieving and impenitent who will not receive the redeeming grace of God. Universal salvation is not promised, but abundant and eternal life is for whosoever believeth. There is forgiveness, cleansing, and wholeness for everyone.

There will be by-products of this mighty river of divine grace. By the river on this side and on that side shall grow all trees for food. And the fruit shall be for meat and the leaf thereof for medicine.

Where the healing waters flow, there is health and light. There is peace, hope, and love. There is life instead of death.