Theme: The LORD is jealous, he judges all sin; live in the light of his grace

Summary of Ezekiel 16’s allegory/extended metaphor
A man, representing the LORD, finds an abandoned baby girl. He adopts her and transforms her pitiful situation by providing for her so that she can grow to maturity. He then marries her and makes her into a beautiful Queen with the richest gifts and blessings. Sadly, his bride rejects his love in a trail of unbridled extravagance, harlotry and violence. Grace is trampled underfoot with the result that judgement is inevitable. Once the anger of the LORD has subsided, he promises covenant renewal and restoration – his bride will be changed so that she will rebel no more.

Chapter outline:
– Jerusalem/Israel’s desperate original condition (v3b-5)
– The LORD’s remarkable acts of mercy (v6-14)
– Jerusalem/Israel’s contemptuous response (v15-34)
– The judgement of Jerusalem (v35-43)
– The shame of Jerusalem (v44-52)
– A double ray of hope (v53-63)