Amos 5

Amos 5:2

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:3

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:4

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:5

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:6

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:7

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:8

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:9

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:10

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:11

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:12

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:13

Introduction

The prophet has already received much detailed information, and we with him, but there is more to come. In this chapter, Ezekiel receives information about the priestly chambers of the temple (Ezekiel 42:1-12), the purpose of these chambers (Ezekiel 42:13-14), and the measurements of the area surrounding the temple complex (Ezekiel 42:15-20).

Again, of this section, the translation is not universally certain. This has been noted before (see the introduction to the explanation of Ezekiel 40-48), but it is good to point it out again here. This requires caution in interpretation and application. It also requires extra vigilance on the part of the reader. He will do well to imitate the believers in Berea, who received “with great eagerness” what they heard from Paul, “examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

The Priests’ Chambers of the Temple

The Man brings Ezekiel out of the porch again outside the temple into the outer court, into the north side of it (Ezekiel 42:1). With his back turned to the north side of the temple house, Ezekiel looks north and sees a building with chambers. The length of the building is a hundred cubits and the width fifty cubits (Ezekiel 42:2). The building is on the other side of the pavement of the inner court twenty cubits north of the temple. It has three stories or galleries (Ezekiel 42:3).

Before the chambers runs a wide corridor or space ten cubits wide (Ezekiel 42:4). This probably divides the building into two parts. The entrances to the building face north. The stories of the building are shorter or narrower toward the top (Ezekiel 42:5). The first or middle story is narrower than the ground story and the second or top story is again narrower than the middle story. This is because of the stability of the building, for it does not rest on pillars (Ezekiel 42:6). The idea is probably that each story is the foundation of the next story.

The design of the three stories of this building is the reverse of the way the three stories of the side chambers on the outside of the temple are built (Ezekiel 41:6-7). If we try to consider what the spiritual application might be here, it is obvious to think of the reverse here as well. There is spiritual growth, an increase “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), when we study in God’s Word. As we do so, there will be a growing awareness of how great He is and how small we are in comparison to Him, how little we know in relation to Him Who is the Omniscient.

We may immerse ourselves in His love, to know it, and at the same time we will realize that this love is beyond our knowledge (Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:33-36), so that we will strongly feel our littleness. Paul, who has been taught by God in a special way about spiritual blessings, says this aptly of himself thus: “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

In front of the chambers facing the outer court runs a wall fifty cubits long (Ezekiel 42:7). This length corresponds to the length of the chambers belonging to the outer court (Ezekiel 42:8). It has been assumed that this wall serves to hide the priests, when they change their clothes, from the view of those who are in the outer court. The building of chambers that stands on the side of the temple is a hundred cubits long. The chambers have an entrance on the east, so that they can be entered from the outer court (Ezekiel 42:9).

On the south side of the temple, in the same arrangement and with the same dimensions, are chambers similar to those on the north side (Ezekiel 42:10-12). Their sizes, exits, furnishings, and entrances are similar to the northern chambers.

Amos 5:14

What the Priests’ Chambers Are for

Then the Man speaks for the fourth time. He explains to Ezekiel what the chambers of the north and of the south that He has just measured are for (Ezekiel 42:13). They are for the priests who approach the LORD to eat the offerings there. They are “holy chambers” because the “most holy things” are eaten there (cf. Leviticus 6:26). The priests may eat of “the grain offering, the sin offering and the guilt offering” (Leviticus 6:17; 24-29; Leviticus 7:6). The peace offering is not mentioned here because the people may also eat of it. The burnt offering is also not mentioned, because this offering in its entirety is for the LORD.

When the priests have finished eating, the Man further declares, they are to take off the garments in which they have been serving and put on their ordinary garments again (Ezekiel 42:14). The priestly garments are to be worn only in the temple and in the inner court, that is, only when the priests are on duty. When they are in the midst of the common people, they must wear ordinary garments. Priestly garments are of linen, with a linen turban and linen pants (Ezekiel 44:17-19).

Eating refers here to fellowship with God. Eating is also food that strengthens our bodies. When we come together to do priestly service, we engage in the most sacred thing there is. We wear sacred garments in a sacred environment in a sacred atmosphere. We are the same persons there as in everyday life, yet in a special way.

We can apply the garments of fine linen worn in God’s presence to the garments of salvation, to being clothed with Christ. In Him we are perfect, holy, and spotless, and can thus appear before God. We come into His presence not by virtue of our own righteousness, but as made pleasing in His Son (Ephesians 1:6). In that clothing we can serve and honor Him for all eternity.

These garments are not meant for the world. This is symbolized in taking off those garments and putting on garments appropriate to our behavior in the world (to avoid misunderstanding, of course, it does not mean that we adapt to the world). We are commanded to let our light shine and show good works, adorning the teachings of Christ and proclaiming the virtues of God.

Garments symbolize what is seen of us, either by God or by men. One kind of garments symbolize our position and behavior in the sanctuary and the other kind of garments symbolize our behavior in the world. In the sanctuary we are a holy priesthood; in the world we are a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:5a; 9a). In the sanctuary we stand before God and speak to Him about the Lord Jesus. Of that priesthood the world understands nothing. In the world we stand before people and we show them Who God is. We do this in the family, in the environment where we live, at work and at school.

Amos 5:15

What the Priests’ Chambers Are for

Then the Man speaks for the fourth time. He explains to Ezekiel what the chambers of the north and of the south that He has just measured are for (Ezekiel 42:13). They are for the priests who approach the LORD to eat the offerings there. They are “holy chambers” because the “most holy things” are eaten there (cf. Leviticus 6:26). The priests may eat of “the grain offering, the sin offering and the guilt offering” (Leviticus 6:17; 24-29; Leviticus 7:6). The peace offering is not mentioned here because the people may also eat of it. The burnt offering is also not mentioned, because this offering in its entirety is for the LORD.

When the priests have finished eating, the Man further declares, they are to take off the garments in which they have been serving and put on their ordinary garments again (Ezekiel 42:14). The priestly garments are to be worn only in the temple and in the inner court, that is, only when the priests are on duty. When they are in the midst of the common people, they must wear ordinary garments. Priestly garments are of linen, with a linen turban and linen pants (Ezekiel 44:17-19).

Eating refers here to fellowship with God. Eating is also food that strengthens our bodies. When we come together to do priestly service, we engage in the most sacred thing there is. We wear sacred garments in a sacred environment in a sacred atmosphere. We are the same persons there as in everyday life, yet in a special way.

We can apply the garments of fine linen worn in God’s presence to the garments of salvation, to being clothed with Christ. In Him we are perfect, holy, and spotless, and can thus appear before God. We come into His presence not by virtue of our own righteousness, but as made pleasing in His Son (Ephesians 1:6). In that clothing we can serve and honor Him for all eternity.

These garments are not meant for the world. This is symbolized in taking off those garments and putting on garments appropriate to our behavior in the world (to avoid misunderstanding, of course, it does not mean that we adapt to the world). We are commanded to let our light shine and show good works, adorning the teachings of Christ and proclaiming the virtues of God.

Garments symbolize what is seen of us, either by God or by men. One kind of garments symbolize our position and behavior in the sanctuary and the other kind of garments symbolize our behavior in the world. In the sanctuary we are a holy priesthood; in the world we are a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:5a; 9a). In the sanctuary we stand before God and speak to Him about the Lord Jesus. Of that priesthood the world understands nothing. In the world we stand before people and we show them Who God is. We do this in the family, in the environment where we live, at work and at school.

Amos 5:16

The Holy Area Around the Temple Grounds

When the measuring of the interior of the house, that is, the holy place and the most holy place and what belongs to them, is completed, the Man brings Ezekiel back to the starting point of the tour (Ezekiel 42:15; Ezekiel 40:5). They go out the east gate. Then the Man goes to measure an area to the four sides of the temple (Ezekiel 42:16-19). To each side He measures five hundred reeds, which is over a kilometer and a half. This creates a kind of third court, as it were.

In Ezekiel 42:20a it says as a summary that of the temple grounds the four sides – literally the four winds, that is, the four directions of the wind – are measured. This completes the description of the temple grounds. Everything that can be measured has been measured.

The wall mentioned in Ezekiel 42:20b is the wall where the Man began to measure (Ezekiel 40:5). We are back to the beginning. The wall is mentioned again to point out its function: it serves to distinguish between the holy and the profane.

The detailed description of this perfect temple underscores the importance of this sanctified building for the exiles. Through the temple, God’s presence in the world becomes, as it were, tangible. Everything about the temple – the perfect proportions of all the parts in relation to each other, the decorations, the lofty building – is impressive. Yet, like the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37), there is no life in the buildings without the presence of the LORD. The house waits for its Occupant. In the next chapter, He comes.

Amos 5:17

The Holy Area Around the Temple Grounds

When the measuring of the interior of the house, that is, the holy place and the most holy place and what belongs to them, is completed, the Man brings Ezekiel back to the starting point of the tour (Ezekiel 42:15; Ezekiel 40:5). They go out the east gate. Then the Man goes to measure an area to the four sides of the temple (Ezekiel 42:16-19). To each side He measures five hundred reeds, which is over a kilometer and a half. This creates a kind of third court, as it were.

In Ezekiel 42:20a it says as a summary that of the temple grounds the four sides – literally the four winds, that is, the four directions of the wind – are measured. This completes the description of the temple grounds. Everything that can be measured has been measured.

The wall mentioned in Ezekiel 42:20b is the wall where the Man began to measure (Ezekiel 40:5). We are back to the beginning. The wall is mentioned again to point out its function: it serves to distinguish between the holy and the profane.

The detailed description of this perfect temple underscores the importance of this sanctified building for the exiles. Through the temple, God’s presence in the world becomes, as it were, tangible. Everything about the temple – the perfect proportions of all the parts in relation to each other, the decorations, the lofty building – is impressive. Yet, like the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37), there is no life in the buildings without the presence of the LORD. The house waits for its Occupant. In the next chapter, He comes.

Amos 5:18

The Holy Area Around the Temple Grounds

When the measuring of the interior of the house, that is, the holy place and the most holy place and what belongs to them, is completed, the Man brings Ezekiel back to the starting point of the tour (Ezekiel 42:15; Ezekiel 40:5). They go out the east gate. Then the Man goes to measure an area to the four sides of the temple (Ezekiel 42:16-19). To each side He measures five hundred reeds, which is over a kilometer and a half. This creates a kind of third court, as it were.

In Ezekiel 42:20a it says as a summary that of the temple grounds the four sides – literally the four winds, that is, the four directions of the wind – are measured. This completes the description of the temple grounds. Everything that can be measured has been measured.

The wall mentioned in Ezekiel 42:20b is the wall where the Man began to measure (Ezekiel 40:5). We are back to the beginning. The wall is mentioned again to point out its function: it serves to distinguish between the holy and the profane.

The detailed description of this perfect temple underscores the importance of this sanctified building for the exiles. Through the temple, God’s presence in the world becomes, as it were, tangible. Everything about the temple – the perfect proportions of all the parts in relation to each other, the decorations, the lofty building – is impressive. Yet, like the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37), there is no life in the buildings without the presence of the LORD. The house waits for its Occupant. In the next chapter, He comes.

Amos 5:19

The Holy Area Around the Temple Grounds

When the measuring of the interior of the house, that is, the holy place and the most holy place and what belongs to them, is completed, the Man brings Ezekiel back to the starting point of the tour (Ezekiel 42:15; Ezekiel 40:5). They go out the east gate. Then the Man goes to measure an area to the four sides of the temple (Ezekiel 42:16-19). To each side He measures five hundred reeds, which is over a kilometer and a half. This creates a kind of third court, as it were.

In Ezekiel 42:20a it says as a summary that of the temple grounds the four sides – literally the four winds, that is, the four directions of the wind – are measured. This completes the description of the temple grounds. Everything that can be measured has been measured.

The wall mentioned in Ezekiel 42:20b is the wall where the Man began to measure (Ezekiel 40:5). We are back to the beginning. The wall is mentioned again to point out its function: it serves to distinguish between the holy and the profane.

The detailed description of this perfect temple underscores the importance of this sanctified building for the exiles. Through the temple, God’s presence in the world becomes, as it were, tangible. Everything about the temple – the perfect proportions of all the parts in relation to each other, the decorations, the lofty building – is impressive. Yet, like the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37), there is no life in the buildings without the presence of the LORD. The house waits for its Occupant. In the next chapter, He comes.

Amos 5:20

The Holy Area Around the Temple Grounds

When the measuring of the interior of the house, that is, the holy place and the most holy place and what belongs to them, is completed, the Man brings Ezekiel back to the starting point of the tour (Ezekiel 42:15; Ezekiel 40:5). They go out the east gate. Then the Man goes to measure an area to the four sides of the temple (Ezekiel 42:16-19). To each side He measures five hundred reeds, which is over a kilometer and a half. This creates a kind of third court, as it were.

In Ezekiel 42:20a it says as a summary that of the temple grounds the four sides – literally the four winds, that is, the four directions of the wind – are measured. This completes the description of the temple grounds. Everything that can be measured has been measured.

The wall mentioned in Ezekiel 42:20b is the wall where the Man began to measure (Ezekiel 40:5). We are back to the beginning. The wall is mentioned again to point out its function: it serves to distinguish between the holy and the profane.

The detailed description of this perfect temple underscores the importance of this sanctified building for the exiles. Through the temple, God’s presence in the world becomes, as it were, tangible. Everything about the temple – the perfect proportions of all the parts in relation to each other, the decorations, the lofty building – is impressive. Yet, like the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37), there is no life in the buildings without the presence of the LORD. The house waits for its Occupant. In the next chapter, He comes.

Amos 5:21

The Holy Area Around the Temple Grounds

When the measuring of the interior of the house, that is, the holy place and the most holy place and what belongs to them, is completed, the Man brings Ezekiel back to the starting point of the tour (Ezekiel 42:15; Ezekiel 40:5). They go out the east gate. Then the Man goes to measure an area to the four sides of the temple (Ezekiel 42:16-19). To each side He measures five hundred reeds, which is over a kilometer and a half. This creates a kind of third court, as it were.

In Ezekiel 42:20a it says as a summary that of the temple grounds the four sides – literally the four winds, that is, the four directions of the wind – are measured. This completes the description of the temple grounds. Everything that can be measured has been measured.

The wall mentioned in Ezekiel 42:20b is the wall where the Man began to measure (Ezekiel 40:5). We are back to the beginning. The wall is mentioned again to point out its function: it serves to distinguish between the holy and the profane.

The detailed description of this perfect temple underscores the importance of this sanctified building for the exiles. Through the temple, God’s presence in the world becomes, as it were, tangible. Everything about the temple – the perfect proportions of all the parts in relation to each other, the decorations, the lofty building – is impressive. Yet, like the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37), there is no life in the buildings without the presence of the LORD. The house waits for its Occupant. In the next chapter, He comes.

Amos 5:23

Introduction

Ezekiel has seen the new temple in the two previous chapters. In this chapter the Owner and Occupant takes up residence there. That Owner and Occupant is the LORD in His glory, Who had to leave His temple, which earlier had been profaned by men. A clear message to the people is attached to His return. Ezekiel is given this message with the command to pass it on to the people. The purpose is that they will be touched in their conscience by these words and return to God with repentance in their hearts for their unfaithfulness. Further, the law for the house is given, the dimensions of the altar of burnt offering are given, and it is said how it is to be consecrated.

The Glory of the LORD Returns

The Man leads Ezekiel back to the east gate (Ezekiel 43:1), which is one of the three entrances to the temple complex described in Ezekiel 40. Ezekiel saw how the glory of God left Solomon’s temple to the east (Ezekiel 9:3; Ezekiel 10:4; 18-19; Ezekiel 11:22-25). That glory did not return in the temple that Zerubbabel rebuilt after returning from exile (cf. Haggai 2:3). Now Ezekiel sees the breathtaking sight of “the glory of the God of Israel”, probably using the same throne chariot with which he saw the glory disappear. He is an eyewitness to the coming of God’s glory “from the way of the east” (Ezekiel 43:2).

God’s glory is returning to dwell in His temple. The sound that accompanies that return is reminiscent of “the sound of many waters”. This recalls the powerful and majestic sound of the wings of the cherubim, reinforcing the thought of the throne chariot (cf. Ezekiel 1:24; Revelation 1:15; Revelation 14:2). The glory of the LORD casts its radiance upon the earth which is thereby illuminated (cf. Ezekiel 1:4; 27; Deuteronomy 33:2; Isaiah 60:1-3; Habakkuk 3:4; Revelation 18:1).

The glory of the God of Israel comes from the east. In that direction, Ezekiel saw that glory disappear from the temple in a vision eighteen years earlier (Ezekiel 43:3; Ezekiel 43:1). On that occasion he announced the destruction of the city.

He calls the destruction of the city here an act done by the LORD, when in fact the city was destroyed by the Babylonians. The Babylonians have thus executed God’s judgment, so that in reality it is God Who has destroyed the city.

He sees the glory of the LORD coming “into the house by the way of the gate facing toward the east” (Ezekiel 43:4; cf. Exodus 40:34-35; 2 Chronicles 7:1; 3). This vision is perhaps the highlight of his ministry. That he may see and pass on that the glory of the LORD is returning to His house can be surpassed by nothing. When we consider that Ezekiel is a priest ‘by birth’, this will undoubtedly make him forget all previous lack of being able to serve as a priest. At this sight he falls down in worship to the ground (cf. Ezekiel 44:4). From the return of the glory of the LORD speaks great grace.

After seeing the glory, the Spirit lifts Ezekiel up (cf. Ezekiel 3:12) and brings him into the inner court, to the temple entrance (Ezekiel 43:5). There he can see that the glory of the LORD has filled the house. The glory of the LORD also fills the tabernacle and temple when they have been built (Exodus 40:34-35; 1 Kings 8:10-11).

Amos 5:24

Introduction

Ezekiel has seen the new temple in the two previous chapters. In this chapter the Owner and Occupant takes up residence there. That Owner and Occupant is the LORD in His glory, Who had to leave His temple, which earlier had been profaned by men. A clear message to the people is attached to His return. Ezekiel is given this message with the command to pass it on to the people. The purpose is that they will be touched in their conscience by these words and return to God with repentance in their hearts for their unfaithfulness. Further, the law for the house is given, the dimensions of the altar of burnt offering are given, and it is said how it is to be consecrated.

The Glory of the LORD Returns

The Man leads Ezekiel back to the east gate (Ezekiel 43:1), which is one of the three entrances to the temple complex described in Ezekiel 40. Ezekiel saw how the glory of God left Solomon’s temple to the east (Ezekiel 9:3; Ezekiel 10:4; 18-19; Ezekiel 11:22-25). That glory did not return in the temple that Zerubbabel rebuilt after returning from exile (cf. Haggai 2:3). Now Ezekiel sees the breathtaking sight of “the glory of the God of Israel”, probably using the same throne chariot with which he saw the glory disappear. He is an eyewitness to the coming of God’s glory “from the way of the east” (Ezekiel 43:2).

God’s glory is returning to dwell in His temple. The sound that accompanies that return is reminiscent of “the sound of many waters”. This recalls the powerful and majestic sound of the wings of the cherubim, reinforcing the thought of the throne chariot (cf. Ezekiel 1:24; Revelation 1:15; Revelation 14:2). The glory of the LORD casts its radiance upon the earth which is thereby illuminated (cf. Ezekiel 1:4; 27; Deuteronomy 33:2; Isaiah 60:1-3; Habakkuk 3:4; Revelation 18:1).

The glory of the God of Israel comes from the east. In that direction, Ezekiel saw that glory disappear from the temple in a vision eighteen years earlier (Ezekiel 43:3; Ezekiel 43:1). On that occasion he announced the destruction of the city.

He calls the destruction of the city here an act done by the LORD, when in fact the city was destroyed by the Babylonians. The Babylonians have thus executed God’s judgment, so that in reality it is God Who has destroyed the city.

He sees the glory of the LORD coming “into the house by the way of the gate facing toward the east” (Ezekiel 43:4; cf. Exodus 40:34-35; 2 Chronicles 7:1; 3). This vision is perhaps the highlight of his ministry. That he may see and pass on that the glory of the LORD is returning to His house can be surpassed by nothing. When we consider that Ezekiel is a priest ‘by birth’, this will undoubtedly make him forget all previous lack of being able to serve as a priest. At this sight he falls down in worship to the ground (cf. Ezekiel 44:4). From the return of the glory of the LORD speaks great grace.

After seeing the glory, the Spirit lifts Ezekiel up (cf. Ezekiel 3:12) and brings him into the inner court, to the temple entrance (Ezekiel 43:5). There he can see that the glory of the LORD has filled the house. The glory of the LORD also fills the tabernacle and temple when they have been built (Exodus 40:34-35; 1 Kings 8:10-11).

Amos 5:25

Introduction

Ezekiel has seen the new temple in the two previous chapters. In this chapter the Owner and Occupant takes up residence there. That Owner and Occupant is the LORD in His glory, Who had to leave His temple, which earlier had been profaned by men. A clear message to the people is attached to His return. Ezekiel is given this message with the command to pass it on to the people. The purpose is that they will be touched in their conscience by these words and return to God with repentance in their hearts for their unfaithfulness. Further, the law for the house is given, the dimensions of the altar of burnt offering are given, and it is said how it is to be consecrated.

The Glory of the LORD Returns

The Man leads Ezekiel back to the east gate (Ezekiel 43:1), which is one of the three entrances to the temple complex described in Ezekiel 40. Ezekiel saw how the glory of God left Solomon’s temple to the east (Ezekiel 9:3; Ezekiel 10:4; 18-19; Ezekiel 11:22-25). That glory did not return in the temple that Zerubbabel rebuilt after returning from exile (cf. Haggai 2:3). Now Ezekiel sees the breathtaking sight of “the glory of the God of Israel”, probably using the same throne chariot with which he saw the glory disappear. He is an eyewitness to the coming of God’s glory “from the way of the east” (Ezekiel 43:2).

God’s glory is returning to dwell in His temple. The sound that accompanies that return is reminiscent of “the sound of many waters”. This recalls the powerful and majestic sound of the wings of the cherubim, reinforcing the thought of the throne chariot (cf. Ezekiel 1:24; Revelation 1:15; Revelation 14:2). The glory of the LORD casts its radiance upon the earth which is thereby illuminated (cf. Ezekiel 1:4; 27; Deuteronomy 33:2; Isaiah 60:1-3; Habakkuk 3:4; Revelation 18:1).

The glory of the God of Israel comes from the east. In that direction, Ezekiel saw that glory disappear from the temple in a vision eighteen years earlier (Ezekiel 43:3; Ezekiel 43:1). On that occasion he announced the destruction of the city.

He calls the destruction of the city here an act done by the LORD, when in fact the city was destroyed by the Babylonians. The Babylonians have thus executed God’s judgment, so that in reality it is God Who has destroyed the city.

He sees the glory of the LORD coming “into the house by the way of the gate facing toward the east” (Ezekiel 43:4; cf. Exodus 40:34-35; 2 Chronicles 7:1; 3). This vision is perhaps the highlight of his ministry. That he may see and pass on that the glory of the LORD is returning to His house can be surpassed by nothing. When we consider that Ezekiel is a priest ‘by birth’, this will undoubtedly make him forget all previous lack of being able to serve as a priest. At this sight he falls down in worship to the ground (cf. Ezekiel 44:4). From the return of the glory of the LORD speaks great grace.

After seeing the glory, the Spirit lifts Ezekiel up (cf. Ezekiel 3:12) and brings him into the inner court, to the temple entrance (Ezekiel 43:5). There he can see that the glory of the LORD has filled the house. The glory of the LORD also fills the tabernacle and temple when they have been built (Exodus 40:34-35; 1 Kings 8:10-11).

Amos 5:26

Introduction

Ezekiel has seen the new temple in the two previous chapters. In this chapter the Owner and Occupant takes up residence there. That Owner and Occupant is the LORD in His glory, Who had to leave His temple, which earlier had been profaned by men. A clear message to the people is attached to His return. Ezekiel is given this message with the command to pass it on to the people. The purpose is that they will be touched in their conscience by these words and return to God with repentance in their hearts for their unfaithfulness. Further, the law for the house is given, the dimensions of the altar of burnt offering are given, and it is said how it is to be consecrated.

The Glory of the LORD Returns

The Man leads Ezekiel back to the east gate (Ezekiel 43:1), which is one of the three entrances to the temple complex described in Ezekiel 40. Ezekiel saw how the glory of God left Solomon’s temple to the east (Ezekiel 9:3; Ezekiel 10:4; 18-19; Ezekiel 11:22-25). That glory did not return in the temple that Zerubbabel rebuilt after returning from exile (cf. Haggai 2:3). Now Ezekiel sees the breathtaking sight of “the glory of the God of Israel”, probably using the same throne chariot with which he saw the glory disappear. He is an eyewitness to the coming of God’s glory “from the way of the east” (Ezekiel 43:2).

God’s glory is returning to dwell in His temple. The sound that accompanies that return is reminiscent of “the sound of many waters”. This recalls the powerful and majestic sound of the wings of the cherubim, reinforcing the thought of the throne chariot (cf. Ezekiel 1:24; Revelation 1:15; Revelation 14:2). The glory of the LORD casts its radiance upon the earth which is thereby illuminated (cf. Ezekiel 1:4; 27; Deuteronomy 33:2; Isaiah 60:1-3; Habakkuk 3:4; Revelation 18:1).

The glory of the God of Israel comes from the east. In that direction, Ezekiel saw that glory disappear from the temple in a vision eighteen years earlier (Ezekiel 43:3; Ezekiel 43:1). On that occasion he announced the destruction of the city.

He calls the destruction of the city here an act done by the LORD, when in fact the city was destroyed by the Babylonians. The Babylonians have thus executed God’s judgment, so that in reality it is God Who has destroyed the city.

He sees the glory of the LORD coming “into the house by the way of the gate facing toward the east” (Ezekiel 43:4; cf. Exodus 40:34-35; 2 Chronicles 7:1; 3). This vision is perhaps the highlight of his ministry. That he may see and pass on that the glory of the LORD is returning to His house can be surpassed by nothing. When we consider that Ezekiel is a priest ‘by birth’, this will undoubtedly make him forget all previous lack of being able to serve as a priest. At this sight he falls down in worship to the ground (cf. Ezekiel 44:4). From the return of the glory of the LORD speaks great grace.

After seeing the glory, the Spirit lifts Ezekiel up (cf. Ezekiel 3:12) and brings him into the inner court, to the temple entrance (Ezekiel 43:5). There he can see that the glory of the LORD has filled the house. The glory of the LORD also fills the tabernacle and temple when they have been built (Exodus 40:34-35; 1 Kings 8:10-11).

Amos 5:27

Introduction

Ezekiel has seen the new temple in the two previous chapters. In this chapter the Owner and Occupant takes up residence there. That Owner and Occupant is the LORD in His glory, Who had to leave His temple, which earlier had been profaned by men. A clear message to the people is attached to His return. Ezekiel is given this message with the command to pass it on to the people. The purpose is that they will be touched in their conscience by these words and return to God with repentance in their hearts for their unfaithfulness. Further, the law for the house is given, the dimensions of the altar of burnt offering are given, and it is said how it is to be consecrated.

The Glory of the LORD Returns

The Man leads Ezekiel back to the east gate (Ezekiel 43:1), which is one of the three entrances to the temple complex described in Ezekiel 40. Ezekiel saw how the glory of God left Solomon’s temple to the east (Ezekiel 9:3; Ezekiel 10:4; 18-19; Ezekiel 11:22-25). That glory did not return in the temple that Zerubbabel rebuilt after returning from exile (cf. Haggai 2:3). Now Ezekiel sees the breathtaking sight of “the glory of the God of Israel”, probably using the same throne chariot with which he saw the glory disappear. He is an eyewitness to the coming of God’s glory “from the way of the east” (Ezekiel 43:2).

God’s glory is returning to dwell in His temple. The sound that accompanies that return is reminiscent of “the sound of many waters”. This recalls the powerful and majestic sound of the wings of the cherubim, reinforcing the thought of the throne chariot (cf. Ezekiel 1:24; Revelation 1:15; Revelation 14:2). The glory of the LORD casts its radiance upon the earth which is thereby illuminated (cf. Ezekiel 1:4; 27; Deuteronomy 33:2; Isaiah 60:1-3; Habakkuk 3:4; Revelation 18:1).

The glory of the God of Israel comes from the east. In that direction, Ezekiel saw that glory disappear from the temple in a vision eighteen years earlier (Ezekiel 43:3; Ezekiel 43:1). On that occasion he announced the destruction of the city.

He calls the destruction of the city here an act done by the LORD, when in fact the city was destroyed by the Babylonians. The Babylonians have thus executed God’s judgment, so that in reality it is God Who has destroyed the city.

He sees the glory of the LORD coming “into the house by the way of the gate facing toward the east” (Ezekiel 43:4; cf. Exodus 40:34-35; 2 Chronicles 7:1; 3). This vision is perhaps the highlight of his ministry. That he may see and pass on that the glory of the LORD is returning to His house can be surpassed by nothing. When we consider that Ezekiel is a priest ‘by birth’, this will undoubtedly make him forget all previous lack of being able to serve as a priest. At this sight he falls down in worship to the ground (cf. Ezekiel 44:4). From the return of the glory of the LORD speaks great grace.

After seeing the glory, the Spirit lifts Ezekiel up (cf. Ezekiel 3:12) and brings him into the inner court, to the temple entrance (Ezekiel 43:5). There he can see that the glory of the LORD has filled the house. The glory of the LORD also fills the tabernacle and temple when they have been built (Exodus 40:34-35; 1 Kings 8:10-11).