Ezekiel 41 & 42 - The New Temple Described

LINK: Ezekiel 41 & 42  

BACKGROUND 

Ezekiel 40:48-43:12 contains the details about the heavenly temple.  I will not go into all the particulars about the different measurements, but I will point out just a few interesting points.

Ezekiel 41

First, nothing is said about the veil between the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies in this heavenly sanctuary. The veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom when Jesus died on the cross (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45).  Since Jesus will be present among His people, the veil is not necessary. Before Jesus, the Holy of Holies was only entered once a year by the high priest who performed a ceremony to atone for the sins of the people (Exodus 26:33,34; Hebrews 9:6-7).  That is no longer necessary since Jesus is our High Priest, and His sacrifice atoned for the sins of all believers. 

Second, there is only one piece of furniture in this temple: a wooden altar 51 1/4 feet high and 31 1/2 feet long. It is called "the table that is before the LORD" (41:22). The dimensions are closest to the dimensions of the altar of incense (Exodus 25:23; 30:1-2). 

Thirdly, there are cherubim (mighty angels) and palm tree ornaments carved all over the interior. The cherubim represent guardians of God's dwelling place (1:4-28; 10). Some commentators believe the palm trees might represent fruitfulness and the blessing of God. These were also in Solomon's temple (1 Kings 6:29). 

Ezekiel 42

This chapter describes the chambers of the priests and the measurements of the temple.

No REFLECTION or APPLICATION today. Keep reading!

PRAYER

Thank You that through Jesus, we have entrance into Your presence. Amen.