What does the temple's structure in Ezekiel teach about approaching God's presence today? The Setting in Ezekiel 40:49 “The portico was twenty cubits long and eleven cubits wide. The stairs leading up to it were approached by ten steps, and there were pillars beside the jambs on the portico, one on each side.” Key Observations • A portico (front porch) separates the outer court from the inner sanctuary. • Ten steps rise toward the entrance. • Twin pillars stand as sentinels on either side. • Exact measurements are recorded—nothing is random. What the Structure Communicates about Approaching God 1. Intentional Ascent • Ten steps require movement upward; no one drifts into God’s presence. • Psalm 24:3-4: “Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” • Hebrews 10:19-22 affirms that we now “draw near with a sincere heart,” yet still with reverence. 2. Ordered Approach • Precise cubits and symmetrical pillars remind us that God sets the terms for worship (Leviticus 10:1-3). • 1 Corinthians 14:40: “Everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner.” • The future literal temple (Ezekiel 40-48) mirrors the unchanging holiness of God; the order underscores that grace never cancels His standards. 3. Mediated Access • Steps hint at a needed elevation from common ground to holy ground. • In the present age Christ fulfills that mediation: John 14:6—“I am the way.” • Ephesians 2:18: “For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” 4. Covenant Reminder • Ten steps readily recall the Ten Commandments, the foundational covenant rules (Exodus 20). • Approaching God remains tied to covenant faithfulness, now fulfilled in Christ’s perfect obedience (Romans 8:3-4). 5. Pillars of Witness and Stability • Pillars flanking the entrance parallel Jachin and Boaz in Solomon’s temple (1 Kings 7:21). • Revelation 3:12 promises the overcomer will be “a pillar in the temple of My God,” pointing to steadfast identity in God’s household. 6. Invitation Coupled with Boundaries • A welcoming portico invites worshipers, yet walls and gates still define sacred space. • Today, Hebrews 4:16 invites us to “approach the throne of grace with confidence,” while 1 Peter 1:15-16 calls us to be holy in all conduct. Living the Lesson Today • Approach God purposefully—set apart time and heart. • Respect His order—submit to Scripture rather than personal preference. • Rely on the Mediator—draw near by faith in Christ, not self-effort. • Honor the covenant—obey out of love, empowered by the Spirit (John 14:15-17). • Stand as pillars—display steadfast faith that points others to the holy, welcoming God. |
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