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“Son of man, describe the temple to the people of Israel, that they may be ashamed of their sins. Let them consider its perfection, and if they are ashamed of all they have done, make known to them the design of the temple—its arrangement, its exits and entrances—its whole design and all its regulations and laws. Write these down before them so that they may be faithful to its design and follow all its regulations.”

“This is the law of the temple: All the surrounding area on top of the mountain will be most holy. Such is the law of the temple.”

 

God was speaking to Ezekiel so that he would pass these messages on to the people of Israel. They had sinned and God was setting an example for them about how he expected them to repent and turn their behavior around. He wanted them to see the perfection of the temple and realize that they were lacking in their spiritual lives. This was also an example of how they could change their ways and follow the path God had set out for them.

Throughout the Bible we have been taught lessons through visible things such as the description of the temple and through the parables that Jesus told. I believe this speaks to our innate resistance to being “preached at”. I know if someone tries to tell me what I need to do without explaining why, I have a tendency to tune out. God knows us so well. He knows that we learn best through passages like this that make us think about what He is trying to tell us. He always explains what He expects of us and why and I believe He does that to keep us engaged with Him and His word. I pray that all may read the Bible to draw closer to the Lord and his wishes for us.

Dear Lord, help us to understand as you show us and tell us what is good and right for us to do. Help us grow closer to you as we read your Word and feel your love. Amen

Karla Gerke

Kgerke56@gmail.com

 

Prayer concern: Those who are not exposed to the word of God