What does "begin at My sanctuary" reveal about God's expectations for His people? Setting the Scene Ezekiel watches as six angelic executioners enter the temple, “each with a weapon of destruction in his hand,” while a seventh, clothed in linen, carries an inkhorn to mark the faithful (Ezekiel 9:2). Then the Lord commands, “Slaughter the old men, the young men, the young women, mothers, and children; but do not go near anyone who has the mark. Now begin at My sanctuary” (Ezekiel 9:6). Judgment will sweep through Jerusalem, yet it must start at the very place that bears God’s name—the temple. The Phrase “Begin at My Sanctuary” • In Hebrew, “miqqodshi”—literally, “from My holy place.” • God is not random; He targets the center of worship first. • The priests and temple personnel—those expected to model holiness—stand at ground zero of divine scrutiny (Ezekiel 9:6–7). Insights into God’s Expectations • Holiness Is Non-Negotiable – Leviticus 11:44: “Be holy, because I am holy.” – God holds those who draw closest to Him to the highest standard. • Responsibility Matches Privilege – Amos 3:2: “You only have I chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.” – Covenant privilege brings covenant accountability. • Judgment Begins with God’s Household – 1 Peter 4:17 echoes Ezekiel: “It is time for judgment to begin with the household of God.” – God insists on purity among His people before He addresses the nations. • Leadership Bears Greater Accountability – Malachi 2:1–2 warns priests who despise God’s name. – Luke 12:47–48: The servant who knew his master’s will yet disobeyed “will be beaten with many blows.” • Purity of Worship Matters – Malachi 3:3: “He will purify the sons of Levi… that they may present to the LORD offerings in righteousness.” – False worship, hypocrisy, and moral compromise trigger divine discipline. • God’s Discipline Protects the Faithful Remnant – Ezekiel 9:4: the linen-clothed man marks those “who sigh and groan over all the abominations.” – Even in judgment, God shields the repentant. Living It Out Today • Examine Your Heart First – Psalm 139:23–24: “Search me, O God… and lead me in the everlasting way.” • Pursue Holiness in the “Temple” of Your Life – 1 Corinthians 6:19: “Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.” – Guard thoughts, habits, and relationships that shape worship. • Lead by Example – Titus 2:7: “In everything, show yourself to be an example of good works.” – Whether pastor, parent, or volunteer, let integrity match confession. • Embrace Loving Discipline – Hebrews 12:10: God disciplines “that we may share in His holiness.” – Discipline is proof of belonging, not rejection. • Intercede for the Community – Ezekiel 22:30: God seeks one to “stand in the gap.” – Pray and labor for purity in your local church before criticizing society. Ezekiel’s vision reminds us that the God who indwells His people expects their lives, worship, and leadership to reflect His character. Judgment that “begins at My sanctuary” is both a warning and an invitation—to repentance, renewed reverence, and wholehearted obedience. |
    |