What role do priests play in teaching God's laws according to Ezekiel 44:24? Scripture focus “In any dispute, they shall stand as judges and judge it according to My ordinances. They shall keep My laws and My statutes regarding all My appointed feasts, and they must keep My Sabbaths holy.” – Ezekiel 44:24 What the verse shows about the priests’ teaching role • Settling disputes: they “stand as judges,” applying God’s ordinances in real-life cases. • Guardians of doctrine: they “keep My laws and My statutes,” knowing the Word thoroughly so they can explain and enforce it. • Calendar instructors: they guide Israel in “all My appointed feasts,” making sure each feast is observed exactly as God prescribed. • Sabbath protectors: they “keep My Sabbaths holy,” modeling and teaching weekly rest and worship. Teaching through judging • Every judgment becomes a living lesson in God’s standards (cf. Deuteronomy 17:8-11). • By deciding cases, priests translate written law into practical guidance for the people (Leviticus 10:11). Safeguarding holy days • Feasts recount redemption history (Passover, Pentecost, etc.); priests rehearse that story with the nation (Exodus 12; Leviticus 23). • Sabbath observance reminds Israel of creation and covenant (Genesis 2:3; Exodus 31:13); priests ensure it remains distinct and uncompromised. Living curriculum • Their obedience makes the law visible (Malachi 2:7: “For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge…”). • Consistency between teaching and lifestyle authenticates the message (Nehemiah 8:1-8 shows priests reading and explaining the law publicly). New-covenant echo • Believers are now called “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), continuing the pattern: know the Word, live it, and help others understand and obey it. |
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