How should Ezekiel 9:3 influence our reverence for God's dwelling places? Verse in Focus: Ezekiel 9:3 “Then the glory of the God of Israel rose from above the cherubim, where it had been, and moved to the threshold of the temple. And He called to the man clothed in linen who had the writing kit at his side.” Why the Glory Moved - Israel’s sin had saturated the temple courts (Ezekiel 8). - God’s holiness cannot coexist with entrenched rebellion; judgment begins at His house (1 Peter 4:17). - The departure to the threshold signals both warning and mercy—He delays final removal, inviting repentance. What the Moment Teaches About God’s Dwelling Places - God’s presence is real, weighty, and observable (Exodus 40:34–35; 1 Kings 8:10–11). - His presence is conditional upon holiness among His people (Leviticus 26:11–12). - When His glory withdraws, protection and blessing withdraw as well. - Reverence is not optional ritual but the necessary atmosphere for divine habitation. Lessons for Reverence Today • Treat gathered worship spaces with humble awe—no casual familiarity with the holy. • Guard doctrinal purity; error invites departure of glory (2 John 9). • Address sin quickly within the fellowship (1 Corinthians 5:6–8). • Cultivate personal holiness—our bodies are now temples (1 Corinthians 3:16–17). • Remember that God still observes and evaluates how His name is honored (Revelation 2–3). Practical Responses - Regular self-examination before communion (1 Corinthians 11:28). - Corporate confession and repentance as part of worship liturgy (James 5:16). - Maintain order, beauty, and cleanliness in meeting places, signaling respect for His presence. - Teach children and newcomers the significance of sacred space. - Prioritize prayer and the Word at the center of church life (Acts 2:42). Supporting Scriptures for Meditation • Psalm 24:3–4 – “Who may ascend the hill of the LORD?” • Isaiah 57:15 – God dwells “in a high and holy place,” yet with the contrite. • Hebrews 10:19–22 – Approach the Holy Place with cleansed hearts. • Revelation 21:3 – The ultimate promise: “God’s dwelling place is now among men.” |
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