Ezekiel 40:47

Next he measured the court. It was square, a hundred cubits long and a hundred cubits wide. And the altar was in front of the temple.

Study Bible

Next he measured the court.
This phrase indicates a continuation of the detailed vision given to Ezekiel, where an angelic figure measures the dimensions of the temple complex. The act of measuring signifies God's order and precision in His plans. The court being measured is part of the visionary temple, which some interpret as a future eschatological temple, while others see it as symbolic of God's perfect order and holiness.

It was square, a hundred cubits long and a hundred cubits wide.
The square shape of the court reflects the perfection and completeness often associated with divine structures in biblical literature. A hundred cubits, approximately 150 feet or 45 meters, suggests a significant and substantial area, emphasizing the grandeur and majesty of the temple. The square design is reminiscent of the Holy of Holies in Solomon's Temple, which was also a perfect square, symbolizing God's presence and perfection.

And the altar was in front of the temple.
The placement of the altar in front of the temple highlights its central role in worship and sacrifice, serving as a focal point for the people's relationship with God. The altar's position signifies the necessity of atonement and sacrifice before entering into God's presence, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This aligns with the sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law, where the altar was essential for offerings and communion with God. The altar's location also underscores the importance of worship and reverence in approaching the divine.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel receives visions from God, including the detailed vision of a new temple.

2. The Court
The outer court of the temple, described as a perfect square, symbolizing completeness and divine order.

3. The Altar
Central to the temple's worship, the altar represents the place of sacrifice and atonement, crucial for the Israelites' relationship with God.

4. The Temple
The envisioned temple in Ezekiel's vision, symbolizing God's presence among His people and a future hope for restoration.

5. The Measuring Angel
A divine messenger who guides Ezekiel through the vision, emphasizing precision and divine order in the temple's design.

Teaching Points

Divine Order and Precision
The detailed measurements of the temple court reflect God's nature of order and precision. Believers are called to live lives that reflect God's order, pursuing holiness and integrity.

Centrality of Worship
The placement of the altar in front of the temple underscores the centrality of worship and sacrifice in the believer's life. Worship should be at the heart of our daily walk with God.

Hope and Restoration
Ezekiel's vision of the temple offers hope for restoration and renewal. In times of personal exile or spiritual dryness, believers can find hope in God's promise of restoration.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents atonement and reconciliation with God. In Christ, believers have a perfect sacrifice, and they are called to live lives of gratitude and service in response to His grace.

Community and Worship
The temple court was a place for communal worship. Believers are encouraged to engage in corporate worship and fellowship, strengthening their faith and community bonds.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precise measurement of the temple court in Ezekiel 40:47 reflect God's character, and how can this understanding influence our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the altar's central position in the temple layout inform our understanding of the importance of worship and sacrifice in our relationship with God?

3. How can Ezekiel's vision of the temple serve as a source of hope and encouragement during times of personal or communal exile?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the temple described in Ezekiel and the New Jerusalem in Revelation, and how do these visions shape our understanding of God's ultimate plan for His people?

5. How can the concept of community worship, as seen in the temple court, be applied to strengthen our local church communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27
The instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle's altar, highlighting the continuity of worship practices and the importance of the altar in Israelite worship.

Revelation 21
The description of the New Jerusalem, which also features precise measurements and a square layout, symbolizing God's perfect order and eternal presence.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its limitations, pointing to Christ as the ultimate high priest and the fulfillment of the sacrificial system.