Summary
Daniel I. Block’s volume on Ezekiel 1–24 in the New International Commentary on the Old Testament is a major contribution to the study of this demanding section of Scripture. We are guided through Ezekiel’s early oracles with a rare combination of scholarly precision and pastoral sensitivity. Block handles the complex visions, symbolic acts, and severe pronouncements with careful attention to context and structure, always aiming to clarify the prophet’s message for readers who will preach and teach it today.
What stands out is the steady patience of the exposition. Ezekiel can feel disorienting, yet Block brings order to the text without flattening its intensity. His translation, textual notes, and verse by verse comments help the reader understand the prophet’s world and the theological weight of his message, while his reflections at the end of each unit anchor the material in the wider canon and in the life of the church.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
Anyone preparing to preach or teach Ezekiel 1–24 will find Block a reliable and thorough companion. The introduction is especially valuable. It provides a clear map of Ezekiel’s setting, structure, literary features, and theological themes. With that foundation in place the commentary itself becomes far easier to navigate and more fruitful for sermon preparation.
Block’s handling of the Hebrew text, historical background, and literary patterns helps the preacher stay close to authorial intent. Even in the densest passages he guides the reader with a steady hand. Although this is a technical commentary, it is written with pastoral awareness. The theological reflections regularly point toward the character of God, the seriousness of sin, the hope of restoration, and the place of these chapters in the unfolding story that leads to Christ.
For those shaped by Reformed convictions, Block’s approach will feel safe and useful. He is an evangelical scholar with a high view of Scripture, and his work encourages the preacher to let the text speak with clarity and weight.
Closing Recommendation
This is a demanding commentary, yet it richly rewards the patient reader. Pastors, students, and teachers who want depth, accuracy, and theological steadiness will benefit greatly from it. We commend it as one of the finest guides to Ezekiel 1–24 available today.