Thank you for sharpening me, Larry. Your points are well taken.

Maybe I was too general in this piece. Yes, the OT is for us, and is profitable for us. Jesus quoted it many times when teaching or rebuking.

But I like to take things in context and to let the Bible interpret itself. My point in using Ezekiel was to indicate that sometimes God says something to individuals that is just for them. It is profitable for us but does not necessarily apply to us.

But Ezekiel was a bad example. As you've indicated and upon further study, my friend was right. It applies to us. I was careless.

..woe to me if I do not preach the gospel( 1Cor 9:16) Woe could mean great distress or judgement.

each one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. (1Cor 3:13-15).

Thanks again Larry. I have to add an edit of some sort to the piece.