What does "enter My sanctuary" reveal about the priestly role in Ezekiel 44:16? Text of Ezekiel 44:16 “They alone may enter My sanctuary; they alone may approach My table to minister before Me; they must keep My charge.” What “enter My sanctuary” tells us • Access is a privilege, not a right; God Himself sets the terms • Entrance equals nearness to His manifest presence (Exodus 25:22; Leviticus 16:2) • The phrase marks the dividing line between the common and the holy (Leviticus 10:10) Who is permitted to enter • “Only the Levitical priests, the sons of Zadok” (v. 15) • Chosen for faithfulness when others rebelled (Ezekiel 48:11) • Illustrates that purity and obedience, not mere lineage, qualify one for service (1 Samuel 2:30) Responsibilities once inside • “Approach My table” — serve at the sacred altar of fellowship (Leviticus 24:5-9) • “Minister before Me” — lead worship, offer sacrifices, and intercede (Numbers 16:46-48) • “Keep My charge” — guard God’s standards and teach them to the people (Deuteronomy 33:10) Holiness and separation highlighted • Garments, conduct, and diet all regulated (Ezekiel 44:17-31) • The priests model God’s holiness to the nation (Leviticus 19:2) • Failure to maintain separation invites judgment (Ezekiel 22:26; Malachi 2:8-9) Forward look through the sanctuary door • Points to Jesus, the ultimate High Priest who perfectly “entered the greater and more perfect tabernacle” (Hebrews 9:11-12) • Opens the way for a royal priesthood of believers (1 Peter 2:9) to draw near “with confidence” (Hebrews 10:19-22) Summary “Enter My sanctuary” underscores exclusive, reverent access granted to faithful priests who guard holiness, serve at God’s table, and represent the people before Him—an office ultimately fulfilled and expanded in Christ. |
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