Ezekiel 43:11

and if they are ashamed of all they have done, then make known to them the design of the temple--its arrangement and its exits and entrances--its whole design along with all its statutes, forms, and laws. Write it down in their sight, so that they may keep its complete design and all its statutes and may carry them out.

Study Bible

and if they are ashamed of all they have done
This phrase emphasizes the necessity of repentance and acknowledgment of sin. In the context of Ezekiel, the Israelites had been exiled due to their idolatry and disobedience. The call to be "ashamed" reflects a deep contrition and recognition of their past transgressions. This is consistent with the biblical theme of repentance as a prerequisite for restoration (2 Chronicles 7:14). The concept of shame here is not merely emotional but involves a turning away from sin, aligning with the prophetic call to return to God.

then make known to them the design of the temple
The temple's design is symbolic of God's presence and order. In Ezekiel's vision, the temple represents a future hope and restoration for Israel. The detailed description underscores the importance of divine order and holiness. The temple serves as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate dwelling place of God among men (John 2:19-21). The revelation of the temple's design signifies God's desire to dwell among His people once they have repented.

its arrangement and its exits and entrances
The specific mention of the temple's arrangement, exits, and entrances highlights the meticulous nature of God's instructions. This reflects the order and precision found in God's creation and law. The temple's structure is not arbitrary but divinely ordained, symbolizing access to God and the boundaries of holiness. The exits and entrances may also symbolize the way to approach God, reminiscent of Jesus as the "door" (John 10:9).

its whole design along with all its statutes, forms, and laws
This phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of God's instructions. The statutes, forms, and laws are integral to maintaining holiness and order within the temple. This mirrors the Mosaic Law, which provided guidelines for worship and community life. The temple's design and laws are a foreshadowing of the new covenant, where God's law is written on the hearts of believers (Jeremiah 31:33).

Write it down in their sight
The act of writing signifies permanence and authority. By writing it down, Ezekiel ensures that the vision is preserved and can be referred to by future generations. This echoes the biblical practice of recording God's words and commands, as seen with Moses and the tablets of the Law (Exodus 34:27). It emphasizes the importance of Scripture as a guide for faith and practice.

so that they may keep its complete design and all its statutes and may carry them out
The purpose of revealing and recording the temple's design is obedience. The phrase stresses the importance of not just knowing God's commands but actively living them out. This reflects the biblical principle that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). The complete design and statutes are meant to guide the people in worship and community life, ensuring that they live in a way that honors God. This obedience is a response to God's grace and a reflection of a transformed heart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, a time of judgment and reflection.

5. God's Revelation
The divine communication of the temple's design, representing a future hope and restoration.

Teaching Points

Repentance and Restoration
The Israelites' shame and repentance are prerequisites for understanding and implementing God's design. True repentance leads to restoration and renewed purpose.

God's Detailed Plan
God's instructions for the temple are precise, reflecting His nature of order and intentionality. Believers are called to seek and follow God's detailed plans for their lives.

Holiness and Obedience
The temple's design and statutes emphasize holiness. Christians are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes, in obedience to His Word.

Symbolism of the Temple
The temple symbolizes God's presence. In the New Covenant, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to reflect God's presence in the world.

Hope and Future Fulfillment
The vision of the temple points to a future hope of complete restoration and communion with God, encouraging believers to live with an eternal perspective.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of shame and repentance in Ezekiel 43:11 relate to the process of spiritual renewal in your own life?

2. In what ways can the detailed design of the temple inspire you to seek God's specific plans and purposes for your life?

3. How does the symbolism of the temple as God's dwelling place influence your understanding of being the temple of the Holy Spirit today?

4. What parallels can you draw between the restoration of the temple in Ezekiel and the promise of a new creation in Revelation 21?

5. How can the principles of holiness and obedience found in the temple's statutes be applied to your daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, which parallels the detailed design of the temple in Ezekiel, emphasizing God's desire for order and holiness.

1 Kings 6-7
The construction of Solomon's Temple, which serves as a historical reference for the temple's significance and God's dwelling among His people.

Hebrews 8-10
The New Testament discussion of the heavenly sanctuary and Christ as the ultimate high priest, connecting the physical temple to spiritual realities.

Revelation 21
The vision of the New Jerusalem, where God's presence is fully realized, echoing the ultimate fulfillment of the temple's purpose.