1. The BIG 3
Ezekiel 14:12-14
January 23 - AM

2. Our text and title
I was asked to preach a sermon on Ezekiel 14:14 - Even if these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they would deliver only themselves by their righteousness,” says the Lord GOD. (NKJV)
(The Message Bible) even if Noah, Daniel, and Job--the Big Three--were alive at the time, it wouldn't do the population any good. Their righteousness would only save their own lives." Decree of GOD, the Master.

3. Background Ezekiel was the prophet in captivity in Babylon
He is explaining the reason for the captivity
When a land (country, nation) sins –
Even Noah, Daniel, or Job could not save the nation

4. Application of the text
It was not the fault of Ezekiel that the people were wicked
Prophets can warn
But they can’t make people change
Ezekiel was to warn – Ezekiel 3:17 - Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me:

5. Application of the text
Noah – after 120 years – saved himself and 7 family members
Daniel – saved himself – and 3 young men
Job – saved only himself

6. Application of the text
We often think about the BIG success stories
Peter – 3,000 on Pentecost
Paul – missionary journeys
Jonah – saved Ninevah (120,000 souls)
The BIG THREE – also were faithful in warning and preaching the message

7. Application for Today Preachers, elders – can’t save your soul
Elders can’t save our young people
Preachers can’t bring all the wandering sheep back to the church
Preachers can teach, preach - WARN

8. Application for Today Preachers can’t MAKE people live moral lives
Preachers can’t MAKE people obey the gospel of Christ
Preachers can’t MAKE people have faith and dedication
In the end – we can only save ourselves

9. We Often Think:
If we had a preacher like Paul or Peter – we would be really doing great things
If I had lived at the time of Jesus – I would have been a true follower
If I had lived at the time of Noah – there would have been 9 on the Ark
If I had lived in Babylon – I would have been praying with Daniel

10. We Often Think:
If I had lived at the time of Job – I would have encouraged (not discouraged) him
NOT TRUE!
Luke 16: And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ 31But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’”

11. Conclusion:
Ezekiel 14:14 places the responsibility for your soul – on YOU.
Preachers, elders, prophets and apostles can help – teach, warn.
But, when all is said and done, each can only save themselves.
Philippians 2:12b - work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;