Ezekiel 40
BSB1 In the twenty-fifth year of our exile, at the beginning of the year, on the tenth day of the month—in the fourteenth year after Jerusalem had been struck down—on that very day the hand of the LORD was upon me, and He took me there. 2 In visions of God He took me to the land of Israel and set me on a very high mountain, on whose southern slope was a structure that resembled a city. 3 So He took me there, and I saw a man whose appearance was like bronze. He was standing in the gateway with a linen cord and a measuring rod in his hand. 4 “Son of man,” he said to me, “look with your eyes, hear with your ears, and pay attention to everything I am going to show you, for that is why you have been brought here. Report to the house of Israel everything you see." 5 And I saw a wall surrounding the temple area. Now the length of the measuring rod in the man’s hand was six long cubits (each measuring a cubit and a handbreadth), and he measured the wall to be one rod thick and one rod high. 6 Then he came to the gate facing east and climbed its steps. He measured the threshold of the gate to be one rod deep. 7 Each gate chamber was one rod long and one rod wide, and there were five cubits between the gate chambers. The inner threshold of the gate by the portico facing inward was one rod deep. 8 Then he measured the portico of the gateway inside; 9 it was eight cubits deep, and its jambs were two cubits thick. And the portico of the gateway faced the temple. 10 There were three gate chambers on each side of the east gate, each with the same measurements, and the gateposts on either side also had the same measurements. 11 And he measured the width of the gateway entrance to be ten cubits, and its length was thirteen cubits. 12 In front of each gate chamber was a wall one cubit high, and the gate chambers were six cubits square. 13 Then he measured the gateway from the roof of one gate chamber to the roof of the opposite one; the distance was twenty-five cubits from doorway to doorway. 14 Next he measured the gateposts to be sixty cubits high. The gateway extended around to the gatepost of the courtyard. 15 And the distance from the entrance of the gateway to the far end of its inner portico was fifty cubits. 16 The gate chambers and their side pillars had beveled windows all around the inside of the gateway. The porticos also had windows all around on the inside. Each side pillar was decorated with palm trees. 17 Then he brought me into the outer court, and there were chambers and a pavement laid out all around the court. Thirty chambers faced the pavement, 18 which flanked the gateways and corresponded to the length of the gates; this was the lower pavement. 19 Then he measured the distance from the front of the lower gateway to the outside of the inner court; it was a hundred cubits on the east side as well as on the north. 20 He also measured the length and width of the gateway of the outer court facing north. 21 Its three gate chambers on each side, its side pillars, and its portico all had the same measurements as the first gate: fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 22 Its windows, portico, and palm trees had the same measurements as those of the gate facing east. Seven steps led up to it, with its portico opposite them. 23 There was a gate to the inner court facing the north gate, just as there was on the east. He measured the distance from gateway to gateway to be a hundred cubits. 24 Then he led me to the south side, and I saw a gateway facing south. He measured its side pillars and portico, and they had the same measurements as the others. 25 Both the gateway and its portico had windows all around, like the other windows. It was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 26 Seven steps led up to it, and its portico was opposite them; it had palm trees on its side pillars, one on each side. 27 The inner court also had a gate facing south, and he measured the distance from gateway to gateway toward the south to be a hundred cubits. 28 Next he brought me into the inner court through the south gate, and he measured the south gate; it had the same measurements as the others. 29 Its gate chambers, side pillars, and portico had the same measurements as the others. Both the gateway and its portico had windows all around; it was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 30 (The porticoes around the inner court were twenty-five cubits long and five cubits deep. ) 31 Its portico faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees. Eight steps led up to it. 32 And he brought me to the inner court on the east side, and he measured the gateway; it had the same measurements as the others. 33 Its gate chambers, side pillars, and portico had the same measurements as the others. Both the gateway and its portico had windows all around. It was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 34 Its portico faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees on each side. Eight steps led up to it. 35 Then he brought me to the north gate and measured it. It had the same measurements as the others, 36 as did its gate chambers, side pillars, and portico. It also had windows all around. It was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 37 Its portico faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees on each side. Eight steps led up to it. 38 There was a chamber with a doorway by the portico in each of the inner gateways. There the burnt offering was to be washed. 39 Inside the portico of the gateway were two tables on each side, on which the burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings were to be slaughtered. 40 Outside, as one goes up to the entrance of the north gateway, there were two tables on one side and two more tables on the other side of the gate’s portico. 41 So there were four tables inside the gateway and four outside—eight tables in all—on which the sacrifices were to be slaughtered. 42 There were also four tables of dressed stone for the burnt offering, each a cubit and a half long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit high. On these were placed the utensils used to slaughter the burnt offerings and the other sacrifices. 43 The double-pronged hooks, each a handbreadth long, were fastened all around the inside of the room, and the flesh of the offering was to be placed on the tables. 44 Outside the inner gate, within the inner court, were two chambers, one beside the north gate and facing south, and another beside the south gate and facing north. 45 Then the man said to me: “The chamber that faces south is for the priests who keep charge of the temple, 46 and the chamber that faces north is for the priests who keep charge of the altar. These are the sons of Zadok, the only Levites who may approach the LORD to minister before Him." 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. 48 Then he brought me to the portico of the temple and measured the side pillars of the portico to be five cubits on each side. The width of the gateway was fourteen cubits and its sidewalls were three cubits on either side. 49 The portico was twenty cubits wide and twelve cubits deep, and ten steps led up to it. There were columns by the side pillars, one on each side.
Study Notes — Ezekiel 40
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Ezekiel 40
- Themes from Ezekiel 40
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Ezekiel 40
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In Ezekiel 40, the prophet is given a vision of a new temple, which serves as a symbol of God's restored presence among His people. The chapter provides a detailed description of the temple's layout, including its gates, chambers, and altar. The vision emphasizes the importance of purity and holiness, as the prophet is instructed to carefully measure and record every aspect of the temple. This vision is significant, as it comes after a series of judgments against Israel, and it offers a message of hope and restoration for the future. Key verses, such as Ezekiel 40:1-4, highlight the prophet's transportation to the mountain and his initial observations of the temple, while Ezekiel 40:28-37 describes the temple's gates and chambers.
Context for the Chapter
Ezekiel 40 is part of a larger section of the book that describes the prophet's visions of restoration and hope for Israel. The chapter comes after a series of judgments against Israel and serves as a message of comfort and promise for the future. The vision of the new temple is closely tied to the themes of exile, restoration, and the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in Ezekiel 40:1-4. This chapter is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the establishment of the new covenant and the coming of Jesus Christ, as mentioned in Hebrews 8:1-2.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Ezekiel 40, we are reminded of the importance of purity and holiness in our lives as believers. We are called to be a temple of the Holy Spirit, and this chapter encourages us to examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are living in accordance with God's commands. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1-4, the prophet's vision of the new temple serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Ezekiel 40 describes a vision of a new temple, which represents God's restored presence among His people. The chapter emphasizes the importance of purity and holiness, as seen in Ezekiel 40:1-4, and serves as a message of hope and restoration for the future. As believers, we are called to be a temple of the Holy Spirit, and this chapter encourages us to examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are living in accordance with God's commands.
Voices from the Church
“The temple of God is a symbol of the church, and the measurements of the temple are a reminder of the precision and order of God's plans for His people. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1-4, the prophet's vision of the new temple highlights the importance of purity and holiness in God's presence.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The vision of the new temple is a powerful symbol of the restoration of God's people and the fulfillment of His promises. This chapter encourages us to look forward to the future with hope and confidence, knowing that God is faithful and will ultimately establish His kingdom on earth. As mentioned in Ezekiel 40:28-37, the temple's gates and chambers serve as a reminder of the need for careful control and regulation of who enters God's presence.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Vision (Ezekiel 40:1-4) — The prophet is transported to a mountain and given a vision of the new temple, highlighting the importance of purity and holiness in God's presence.
- The East Gate (Ezekiel 40:5-16) — The gate is described in detail, emphasizing its significance as an entrance to the temple and the need for careful control and regulation of who enters.
- The North and South Gates (Ezekiel 40:17-27) — The gates are described, highlighting their role in regulating access to the temple and emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness.
- The Inner Court and the Temple (Ezekiel 40:28-37) — The inner court and the temple are described, emphasizing the importance of order and precision in God's creation and plans.
- The Chambers and the Altar (Ezekiel 40:38-47) — The chambers and the altar are described, highlighting their significance in the temple's layout and the importance of worship and obedience to God's commands.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Purity
- Ezekiel 40 emphasizes the significance of purity and holiness in God's presence, as seen in the detailed description of the temple's layout and the prophet's careful measurements. This doctrine is closely tied to the themes of exile, restoration, and the fulfillment of God's promises, as mentioned in Ezekiel 40:1-4.
- The Role of the Prophet
- The prophet's role in recording and measuring the temple's details highlights his importance as a messenger of God's plans and purposes. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1, the prophet is transported to the mountain and given a vision of the new temple, emphasizing his unique position as a recipient of God's revelation.
- The Significance of the Temple
- The temple represents God's presence and dwelling among His people, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness. The chapter's emphasis on the temple's layout and the prophet's careful measurements highlights the significance of order and precision in God's creation and plans.
- The Future Hope of Israel
- The vision of the new temple serves as a message of hope and restoration for the future, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises. As mentioned in Ezekiel 40:28-37, the temple's gates and chambers serve as a reminder of the need for careful control and regulation of who enters God's presence.
Lessons from Ezekiel 40
- The Importance of Purity — Ezekiel 40 emphasizes the significance of purity and holiness in God's presence, highlighting the need for careful control and regulation of who enters the temple. As believers, we are called to be a temple of the Holy Spirit, and this chapter encourages us to examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are living in accordance with God's commands.
- The Role of the Prophet — The prophet's role in recording and measuring the temple's details highlights his importance as a messenger of God's plans and purposes. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1, the prophet is transported to the mountain and given a vision of the new temple, emphasizing his unique position as a recipient of God's revelation.
- The Significance of the Temple — The temple represents God's presence and dwelling among His people, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness. The chapter's emphasis on the temple's layout and the prophet's careful measurements highlights the significance of order and precision in God's creation and plans.
- The Future Hope of Israel — The vision of the new temple serves as a message of hope and restoration for the future, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises. As mentioned in Ezekiel 40:28-37, the temple's gates and chambers serve as a reminder of the need for careful control and regulation of who enters God's presence.
- The Importance of Order and Precision — The chapter's emphasis on the temple's layout and the prophet's careful measurements highlights the significance of order and precision in God's creation and plans. As believers, we are called to be conformed to the image of Christ, and this chapter encourages us to examine our lives and relationships to ensure that we are living in accordance with God's commands.
Themes from Ezekiel 40
- Purity and Holiness — Ezekiel 40 emphasizes the significance of purity and holiness in God's presence, highlighting the need for careful control and regulation of who enters the temple. As believers, we are called to be a temple of the Holy Spirit, and this chapter encourages us to examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are living in accordance with God's commands.
- The Role of the Prophet — The prophet's role in recording and measuring the temple's details highlights his importance as a messenger of God's plans and purposes. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1, the prophet is transported to the mountain and given a vision of the new temple, emphasizing his unique position as a recipient of God's revelation.
- The Significance of the Temple — The temple represents God's presence and dwelling among His people, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness. The chapter's emphasis on the temple's layout and the prophet's careful measurements highlights the significance of order and precision in God's creation and plans.
- The Future Hope of Israel — The vision of the new temple serves as a message of hope and restoration for the future, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises. As mentioned in Ezekiel 40:28-37, the temple's gates and chambers serve as a reminder of the need for careful control and regulation of who enters God's presence.
- The Importance of Order and Precision — The chapter's emphasis on the temple's layout and the prophet's careful measurements highlights the significance of order and precision in God's creation and plans. As believers, we are called to be conformed to the image of Christ, and this chapter encourages us to examine our lives and relationships to ensure that we are living in accordance with God's commands.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the temple represent in Ezekiel 40, and how does this relate to our lives as believers?
- How does the chapter's emphasis on purity and holiness challenge or encourage you in your walk with God?
- What role does the prophet play in the vision of the new temple, and what can we learn from his example?
- How does the vision of the new temple relate to the broader biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the establishment of the new covenant and the coming of Jesus Christ?
- What practical applications can you make from this chapter in terms of your own life and relationship with God?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Vision (Ezekiel 40:1-4)
| 40:1 | The prophet is transported to a mountain and given a vision of the new temple, highlighting the importance of purity and holiness in God's presence. |
| 40:2 | The prophet sees a vision of the temple, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of God's presence and dwelling among His people. |
2. The East Gate (Ezekiel 40:5-16)
| 40:5 | The gate is described in detail, emphasizing its significance as an entrance to the temple and the need for careful control and regulation of who enters. |
| 40:6 | The gate's measurements are recorded, highlighting the importance of precision and order in God's creation and plans. |
3. The North and South Gates (Ezekiel 40:17-27)
| 40:17 | The gates are described, highlighting their role in regulating access to the temple and emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness. |
| 40:18 | The gates' measurements are recorded, emphasizing the significance of order and precision in God's creation and plans. |
4. The Inner Court and the Temple (Ezekiel 40:28-37)
| 40:28 | The inner court and the temple are described, emphasizing the importance of order and precision in God's creation and plans. |
| 40:29 | The temple's layout is highlighted, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of God's presence and dwelling among His people. |
5. The Chambers and the Altar (Ezekiel 40:38-47)
| 40:38 | The chambers and the altar are described, highlighting their significance in the temple's layout and the importance of worship and obedience to God's commands. |
| 40:39 | The altar's measurements are recorded, emphasizing the importance of precision and order in God's creation and plans. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the temple in Ezekiel 40?
The temple represents God's presence and dwelling among His people, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1-4, the prophet's vision of the new temple highlights the importance of purity and holiness in God's presence.
What role does the prophet play in the vision of the new temple?
The prophet's role in recording and measuring the temple's details highlights his importance as a messenger of God's plans and purposes. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1, the prophet is transported to the mountain and given a vision of the new temple, emphasizing his unique position as a recipient of God's revelation.
How does the vision of the new temple relate to the broader biblical narrative?
The vision of the new temple serves as a message of hope and restoration for the future, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises. As mentioned in Ezekiel 40:28-37, the temple's gates and chambers serve as a reminder of the need for careful control and regulation of who enters God's presence.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ezekiel 40:1 → Exodus 25:8 | The vision of the new temple is reminiscent of the instructions for the construction of the tabernacle in Exodus 25:8, highlighting the significance of purity and holiness in God's presence. |
| 2 | Ezekiel 40:5 → 1 Kings 6:1-10 | The description of the east gate is similar to the description of the temple's gates in 1 Kings 6:1-10, emphasizing the importance of order and precision in God's creation and plans. |
| 3 | Ezekiel 40:17 → Leviticus 10:1-3 | The emphasis on the gates' role in regulating access to the temple is similar to the instructions for the priests' duties in Leviticus 10:1-3, highlighting the importance of purity and holiness. |
| 4 | Ezekiel 40:28 → Psalm 84:1-4 | The description of the inner court and the temple is reminiscent of the psalmist's longing for God's presence in Psalm 84:1-4, emphasizing the significance of the temple as a symbol of God's presence and dwelling among His people. |
| 5 | Ezekiel 40:38 → Hebrews 8:1-2 | The description of the chambers and the altar is similar to the description of the heavenly temple in Hebrews 8:1-2, highlighting the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ. |
| 6 | Ezekiel 40:1 → Revelation 21:1-4 | The vision of the new temple is reminiscent of the description of the new heaven and the new earth in Revelation 21:1-4, emphasizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of the new covenant. |
| 7 | Ezekiel 40:5 → John 1:1 | The description of the east gate is similar to the description of Jesus as the gate of salvation in John 1:1, highlighting the significance of Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 8 | Ezekiel 40:17 → 1 Peter 2:4-5 | The emphasis on the gates' role in regulating access to the temple is similar to the description of believers as living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5, highlighting the importance of purity and holiness in the lives of believers. |
| 9 | Ezekiel 40:28 → Ephesians 2:19-22 | The description of the inner court and the temple is reminiscent of the description of the church as a temple of the Holy Spirit in Ephesians 2:19-22, emphasizing the significance of the church as a symbol of God's presence and dwelling among His people. |
| 10 | Ezekiel 40:38 → Hebrews 10:19-25 | The description of the chambers and the altar is similar to the description of the heavenly temple and the sacrifice of Christ in Hebrews 10:19-25, highlighting the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ. |
Sermons on Ezekiel 40
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The River of Life by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses a vision that the prophet Ezekiel had about a river of life. The preacher emphasizes that this vision is a prophecy for the Church of the lat |
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The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 3 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker begins by suggesting a method for the audience to better engage with the message. He then provides a broad outline of the book being discussed, acknowle |
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The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 10 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the instructions given to the Prophet in the book of Ezekiel. The Prophet is told to behold with his eyes, hear with his ears, and set his he |
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(Through the Bible) Ezekiel 40-48 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the significance of Jesus' ascension into heaven and his promise to return in the same manner. The sermon also mentions a vision of a temple w |
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A Revelation of Christ by B.H. Clendennen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking a fresh revelation of Jesus Christ in practical life situations, highlighting the transformative power of truly seeing and knowing |
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(February 1987) 01 - Arise and Measure the Temple by Ray Lowe | In this sermon, the preacher talks about a revolution that is taking place in the country, which will be followed by a revival. He shares a story about a preacher in 1964 who exper |
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God's Temple by Robert B. Thompson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the sacrifices made by those who came before us in their dedication to serving God. He mentions how they were persecuted, sawn in half, and b |
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The City & the Saved Nations by Robert B. Thompson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of patience and endurance in the Christian journey. He urges listeners to avoid the temptation of seeking shortcuts or graspin |
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The Corridor of Glory: The Mountain-City of God's House by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle explores the profound concept of the 'Corridor of Glory,' emphasizing the dynamic convergence of the heavenly and millennial Jerusalems. He articulates God's desire to |
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Jesus' Leadership in the Millennium (Isa. 2) by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Jesus' leadership during the Millennium as depicted in Isaiah 2, highlighting the glory of Jerusalem as the capital city of the great Kin |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Ezekiel 40
In Ezekiel 40, the prophet is given a vision of a new temple, which serves as a symbol of God's restored presence among His people. The chapter provides a detailed description of the temple's layout, including its gates, chambers, and altar. The vision emphasizes the importance of purity and holiness, as the prophet is instructed to carefully measure and record every aspect of the temple. This vision is significant, as it comes after a series of judgments against Israel, and it offers a message of hope and restoration for the future. As Matthew Henry notes, the temple represents the church, and the measurements of the temple are a reminder of the precision and order of God's plans for His people. The chapter encourages believers to examine their hearts and lives, ensuring that they are living in accordance with God's commands, and to look forward to the future with hope and confidence, knowing that God is faithful and will ultimately establish His kingdom on earth. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Purity
The chapter's emphasis on the temple's purity and the prophet's careful measurements highlights the significance of holiness in God's presence. This is seen in Ezekiel 40:1-4, where the prophet is instructed to record every aspect of the temple.
The Significance of the Temple's Layout
The detailed description of the temple's layout, including its gates, chambers, and altar, underscores the importance of order and precision in God's creation and plans. For example, Ezekiel 40:28-37 describes the temple's gates and chambers, emphasizing the need for careful control and regulation of who enters God's presence.
The Role of the Prophet
The prophet's role in recording and measuring the temple's details emphasizes his importance as a messenger of God's plans and purposes. As seen in Ezekiel 40:1, the prophet is transported to the mountain and given a vision of the new temple, highlighting his unique position as a recipient of God's revelation.