Ezekiel 45:3

From this holy portion, you are to measure off a length of 25,000 cubits and a width of 10,000 cubits, and in it will be the sanctuary, the Most Holy Place.

Study Bible

From this holy portion
The term "holy portion" refers to a designated area set apart for sacred purposes. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, this portion is part of the land division for the restored Israel. The concept of holiness, or being set apart, is central to the identity of Israel as God's chosen people. This portion is specifically allocated for the priests and the temple, emphasizing the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people. The idea of a "holy portion" can be seen as a foreshadowing of the New Testament teaching that believers are a "holy nation" (1 Peter 2:9).

you are to measure off a length of 25,000 cubits and a width of 10,000 cubits
The specific measurements indicate a precise and orderly plan, reflecting God's nature of order and purpose. A cubit is generally considered to be about 18 inches, making this area approximately 7.5 miles by 3 miles. This large area underscores the significance of the temple and its central role in the life of Israel. The act of measuring is symbolic of God's sovereignty and His authority to define sacred spaces. Similar measurements are found in the visions of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21, suggesting a continuity in God's plan for His people.

and in it will be the sanctuary
The sanctuary is the central place of worship, where God's presence dwells among His people. In Ezekiel's vision, the sanctuary represents the restored relationship between God and Israel. It is a place of sacrifice, prayer, and communion with God. The sanctuary's presence within the holy portion highlights the priority of worship and the need for a dedicated space for encountering God. This concept is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate sanctuary and mediator between God and humanity (John 2:19-21).

the Most Holy Place
The Most Holy Place, or Holy of Holies, is the innermost and most sacred area of the sanctuary, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept in the original temple. It symbolizes the direct presence of God and was only accessible to the high priest once a year on the Day of Atonement. In Ezekiel's vision, the Most Holy Place signifies the ultimate holiness and purity required to approach God. This foreshadows the work of Christ, whose sacrifice tore the veil separating the Most Holy Place, granting believers direct access to God (Hebrews 10:19-22).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites, including visions of a future temple.

2. The Sanctuary
Refers to the holy place within the temple, a central location for worship and the presence of God among His people.

3. The Most Holy Place
The innermost part of the sanctuary, where God's presence dwelt, and only the high priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement.

4. The Israelites
The people of God, who were in exile during Ezekiel's time, receiving hope and instruction for future restoration.

5. The Temple Vision
A prophetic vision given to Ezekiel, detailing the measurements and design of a future temple, symbolizing God's restored relationship with His people.

Teaching Points

God's Presence Among His People
The sanctuary and the Most Holy Place symbolize God's desire to dwell among His people, emphasizing the importance of holiness and reverence in worship.

The Importance of Measurement and Order
The specific measurements highlight God's attention to detail and order, reminding believers of the importance of structure and intentionality in their spiritual lives.

Hope for Restoration
Ezekiel's vision offers hope for restoration and renewal, encouraging believers to trust in God's promises for future redemption and restoration.

The Role of the Temple in Worship
Understanding the temple's role in Israel's worship helps believers appreciate the significance of communal worship and the church as the body of Christ today.

The Fulfillment in Christ
The Most Holy Place points to Christ as the ultimate high priest, who grants believers direct access to God, fulfilling the temple's purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel 45:3 reflect God's desire to be present with His people, and how can this understanding impact our daily worship?

2. In what ways do the specific measurements and design of the temple in Ezekiel's vision teach us about God's character and His expectations for order in our lives?

3. How can the hope of restoration seen in Ezekiel's temple vision encourage us in times of personal or communal exile or hardship?

4. What parallels can we draw between the role of the temple in ancient Israel and the role of the church today in fostering a community of worship and holiness?

5. How does the concept of the Most Holy Place in Ezekiel 45:3 find its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, and how does this truth affect our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26
Describes the original design of the tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple, highlighting the continuity of God's dwelling place among His people.

1 Kings 6
Details Solomon's temple, providing a historical context for the temple's significance and its role in Israel's worship.

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, drawing parallels to the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with His people, as seen in Ezekiel's temple vision.