Ezekiel Chapter 40 Intro:

 

Ezekiel Chapter 40

Temple Scripture

Beginning in chapter 40 and going through to the end of the book, and clearly a unit. They spell out the construction of a new temple and a new order of worship for Israel. Much discussion has been engendered as to the identity of the temple described in these chapters. It is a literal temple yet to be built. In favor of this view is the fact that the measurements of the temple given in these chapters do not fit any temple or tabernacle mentioned in Scripture. It therefore awaits fulfillment which can take place only in the time of Israel’s blessing and restoration during the millennial reign of Christ as given in Revelation 20:4-6.

Starting in chapter 40 to 42, we see the new temple includes the traditional outer court (40:5-27); and inner court (40:28-47); as well as the building proper (40:48 - 41:26); adjacent building (42:1-14); outer walls (42:15-20); and altar (43:13-27).

The fact that Ezekiel would spend so much space describing the temple indicates its importance. Actually, upwards of 50 chapters in the bible are devoted to descriptions of the tabernacle and various temples. In the Book of Ezekiel, the prophet shows clearly that the tragic departure of God’s glory from the temple, described in chapters 10 and 11, is reversed in the future temple when the Spirit returns (43:1-12) and fills it with glory. God is not finished with His people. They will yet see His glory.