What does Ezekiel 46:23 teach about reverence and preparation in approaching God? Setting the Scene “Around the inside of each of the four courts was a row of masonry, with boiling places constructed underneath the rows all around.” What We See in the Text • Four outer-court corners, each holding its own courtyard • Rows of masonry built all around each courtyard • “Boiling places” (hearths) set beneath the rows for cooking sacrificial meat Reverence Highlighted • God assigns exact dimensions and functions (vv. 21-24). Detailed architecture shows He is not casual about worship (cf. Exodus 25:9). • The sacrificial meat was cooked in designated, sanctified spaces—no mixing of holy and common (Leviticus 6:24-30). • Masonry rows “all around” form a respectful barrier, marking sacrifice as special and shielding it from profane use (Malachi 1:7-8 contrasts careless offerings). Preparation Emphasized • “Boiling places” were built ahead of time; priests did not improvise. Orderly preparation prevented chaos (1 Corinthians 14:40). • Permanent hearths ensured sacrifices could be prepared rapidly yet reverently—ready for worshippers but guarded by holy boundaries (2 Chronicles 29:35-36). • The infrastructure reflects God’s foresight: He supplies what His people need before they serve Him (Philippians 4:19 applied). Principles for Today 1. Plan for worship. Physical readiness (space, materials) echoes these temple hearths. 2. Guard holy things. Keep spiritual disciplines and gatherings distinct from everyday clutter (Hebrews 12:28-29). 3. Serve with diligence. Just as masonry rows framed the work, set healthy structures that foster wholehearted, undistracted devotion (Romans 12:11). Ezekiel 46:23, though architectural, underlines that approaching God requires thought-out provision and deep reverence—truths still vital for every believer who comes before the Lord. |
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