They are to teach My people the difference between the holy and the common, and show them how to discern between the clean and the unclean. They are to teachThe Hebrew root for "teach" is "yarah," which means to instruct or direct. In the context of Ezekiel, this instruction is not merely academic but deeply spiritual, aiming to guide the Israelites in understanding God's laws and His expectations for holiness. The role of teaching here is a divine mandate, emphasizing the responsibility of the priests to lead the people in spiritual discernment and moral clarity. My people the difference between the holy and the common and show them how to distinguish between the unclean and the clean Persons / Places / Events 1. EzekielA prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites. 2. The Priests Specifically, the Levitical priests, who are given the responsibility to instruct the people in matters of holiness and purity. 3. The Temple The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people. 4. The Israelites God's chosen people, who are being instructed on how to live in accordance with His laws. 5. The Babylonian Exile The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a time of judgment and reflection for the Israelites. Teaching Points The Importance of DiscernmentBelievers are called to discern between what is holy and common, clean and unclean, in their daily lives. Role of Spiritual Leaders Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to teach and guide others in understanding God's standards of holiness. Holiness in Daily Life Holiness is not just a religious concept but a practical lifestyle that affects every aspect of a believer's life. The Call to Maturity As believers grow in their faith, they should develop the ability to discern and make decisions that honor God. Community Accountability The community of believers should support one another in living out God's standards and holding each other accountable. Bible Study Questions 1. How can we apply the principle of distinguishing between the holy and the common in our modern context?2. In what ways can spiritual leaders today fulfill their role in teaching discernment to their congregations? 3. How does understanding the original Hebrew context of "holy" (qadosh) and "common" (chol) enhance our understanding of this passage? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to grow in our ability to discern between clean and unclean influences in our lives? 5. How does the concept of a "royal priesthood" in 1 Peter 2:9 relate to the responsibilities outlined in Ezekiel 44:23? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 10:10This verse emphasizes the role of the priests in distinguishing between the holy and the common, similar to Ezekiel 44:23. Malachi 2:7 Highlights the priest's duty to preserve knowledge and instruct the people, reinforcing the teaching role mentioned in Ezekiel. 1 Peter 2:9 Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the Old Testament priestly duties to the New Testament church. Hebrews 5:14 Discusses the mature believer's ability to discern good from evil, paralleling the need for discernment in Ezekiel 44:23.
People Ezekiel, Israelites, Joel, Levites, ZadokPlaces Holy PlaceTopics Cause, Clean, Clear, Common, Difference, Direct, Discern, Distinguish, Division, Holy, Moreover, Profane, Teach, UncleanDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 44:23 7340 clean and unclean Library That the Ruler Relax not his Care for the Things that are Within in his Occupation among the Things that are Without, nor Neglect to ProvideThe ruler should not relax his care for the things that are within in his occupation among the things that are without, nor neglect to provide for the things that are without in his solicitude for the things that are within; lest either, given up to the things that are without, he fall away from his inmost concerns, or, occupied only with the things that are within bestow not on his neighbours outside himself what he owes them. For it is often the case that some, as if forgetting that they have … Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great Epistle iv. To Cyriacus, Bishop. Paul's Departure and Crown; Ezekiel Links Ezekiel 44:23 NIVEzekiel 44:23 NLT Ezekiel 44:23 ESV Ezekiel 44:23 NASB Ezekiel 44:23 KJV Ezekiel 44:23 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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