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Ezekiel-46

The Highest Priest: A Devotional Study on Ezekiel 44​

Introduction​

In Ezekiel 44, we find an intriguing vision that provides a glimpse into the holiness of God's sanctuary and the sacredness of His work. In this devotional study, we'll delve into this passage and examine the significant truths and spiritual insights embedded within.

Section 1: Restoring the House of Israel (Ezekiel 44:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: In these two verses, Ezekiel introduces us to a powerful scene - God's decision to restore His people, the house of Israel, to their land and to their God-given identity. This passage speaks of renewal and redemption, reminding us of God's kindness towards his people. Let us take heart in knowing our Heavenly Father is always present and working out His plan for us.

Reflection Questions:

  • How have we seen God's faithfulness in restoring and redeeming others or ourselves?
  • How can we stand with God's ongoing work in redeeming people and restoring them to their true identity?

Section 2: The House of Judah and Benjamin (Ezekiel 44:3-4)​

Devotional Thought: This passage portrays a scene of hope where the people of Judah and Benjamin are distinguished. God seems to distinguish those who rise to the task of restoring His people and act on His behalf. This passage reveals that those with zeal and a passion for doing God's work often stand out. Today, let us reflect on our own zeal for God, in learning how we can contribute to His mission of restoration.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we grow in zeal and passion for God's work, as reflected in this passage?
  • How can we work alongside others to bring about God's plan for restoration for His people?

Section 3: The Need For Anointing (Ezekiel 44:5-6)​

Devotional Thought: God commands that no one who has been defiled, or who has the scent of death upon them, enter the Temple's inner sanctum. Here, we encounter the Old Testament concept of the importance of being anointed before entering God's sanctuary. This concept speaks to the preparation and cleanliness necessary for proper worship and dialogue with God. Our imagination can expand to understand this to be a call to examine our own preparation, cleanliness, and purity of heart before our close communication with God.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does preparedness and cleanliness reflect in our spiritual lives, and what measures do we need to put in place to maintain this biblical attribute?
  • In what ways do we ensure our hearts are pure before we come before God?

Section 4: The Role of Levites (Ezekiel 44:7-9)​

Devotional Thought: God clarifies the role of the Levites, ensuring that no one outside of their traditional role enters the Temple's inner sanctum. This role highlights the sacredness of the Temple service, elevating it as devoted, holy work beyond that of the everyday tasks. These verses call for a reverence, respect, and focus for those involved in the ministry of the Temple.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we honor the Levitical prestige while engaging in modest roles in our church ministries?
  • How can we show reverence and respect for holiness, in whatever positions we hold in the Lord's house?

Section 5: No Unclean Thing (Ezekiel 44:10-14)​

Devotional Thought: In these verses, Ezekiel repeats the phrase "no unclean thing" several times, emphasizing the deep significance of purity. God reflects on the past as He explains why He has chosen to take this stand concerning unclean or unfaithful beings. This passage conveys a call to the Old Covenant's standards for holy and sacred living while warning us to steer clear of the profane and impure.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do we establish a sturdy boundary of purity while living in a world that is not so absolute in its devotion?
  • What measures do we need to put in place to ensure our wholeness before living this entire life portrayed by this passage?

Conclusion:​

As we wrap up our exploration of Ezekiel 44, we're reminded that God moves methodically in His never-ending love for His people. This passage illustrates God's sovereignty, holiness, and love in His people, through the anointed Levites, the distinction between Judah and Benjamin, and the keen focus on unclean things. Let us stand in awe of this passage's spirituality and apply its lessons to our daily lives, meeting God's call to remain pure and holy.