Ezekiel 43:11

and if they are ashamed of all they have done, then make known to them the design of the temple--its arrangement and its exits and entrances--its whole design along with all its statutes, forms, and laws. Write it down in their sight, so that they may keep its complete design and all its statutes and may carry them out.

Study Bible

And if they are ashamed
The phrase "And if they are ashamed" serves as a conditional statement, indicating a prerequisite for the revelation of the temple's design. The Hebrew root for "ashamed" is "בּוֹשׁ" (bosh), which conveys a deep sense of humiliation or repentance. This reflects a spiritual awakening and acknowledgment of past transgressions, a theme prevalent throughout the prophetic books. The call to shame is not merely about feeling guilty but about a transformative recognition that leads to genuine repentance and change.

of all they have done
This phrase emphasizes the totality of Israel's actions that have led them away from God. It is a comprehensive acknowledgment of sin, encompassing idolatry, injustice, and disobedience. Historically, Israel's actions had led to the Babylonian exile, a period of profound reflection and longing for restoration. The phrase calls for a holistic repentance, not just for specific sins but for the entire pattern of behavior that has distanced them from God.

then make known to them the design of the temple
The "design of the temple" refers to the detailed plans for the new temple, which Ezekiel is instructed to reveal. The Hebrew word for "design" is "תָּכוּן" (takun), which implies a precise and divinely inspired blueprint. This design is not merely architectural but symbolic of God's presence and order. The temple represents a restored relationship with God, a central place of worship, and a return to divine order and holiness.

its arrangement, its exits and entrances
This phrase highlights the meticulous detail in God's instructions, emphasizing the importance of order and structure in worship. The "arrangement" and the "exits and entrances" symbolize access to God and the proper way to approach Him. In the historical context, the temple's structure was a physical manifestation of spiritual truths, teaching the Israelites about purity, reverence, and the sacredness of God's dwelling place.

its whole design and all its statutes
The repetition of "its whole design" underscores the completeness and perfection of God's plan. The "statutes" refer to the laws and ordinances associated with temple worship. In the Hebrew context, "חֻקָּה" (chuqqah) denotes a decree or ordinance, often with a ceremonial or ritualistic aspect. This reflects the covenantal relationship between God and His people, where obedience to His statutes is a sign of faithfulness and devotion.

its whole design and all its laws
The phrase reiterates the comprehensive nature of God's instructions. The "laws" (תּוֹרָה, torah) encompass the moral, ceremonial, and civil aspects of life under God's covenant. This holistic approach to God's law is foundational in the conservative Christian perspective, emphasizing that every aspect of life is under God's authority and should reflect His holiness.

Write it down in their sight
The command to "Write it down in their sight" signifies the importance of making God's instructions clear and accessible. Writing serves as a permanent record, ensuring that the people can continually refer to God's design and laws. This act of writing is a prophetic gesture, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's word and His desire for His people to internalize and live by His commandments.

so that they may keep its whole design and all its statutes
The purpose of revealing and recording the temple's design is so that the people "may keep" it. The Hebrew word for "keep" is "שָׁמַר" (shamar), meaning to guard, observe, or give heed. This implies active engagement and commitment to living according to God's revealed will. It is a call to faithfulness and obedience, central themes in the conservative Christian understanding of discipleship.

and may carry them out
The final phrase, "and may carry them out," emphasizes the practical application of God's instructions. It is not enough to know God's design and statutes; they must be lived out in daily life. This reflects the biblical principle that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). In the conservative Christian tradition, this underscores the importance of aligning one's actions with God's will, demonstrating faith through obedience and righteous living.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, a time of judgment and reflection.

5. God's Revelation
The divine communication of the temple's design, representing a future hope and restoration.

Teaching Points

Repentance and Restoration
The Israelites' shame and repentance are prerequisites for understanding and implementing God's design. True repentance leads to restoration and renewed purpose.

God's Detailed Plan
God's instructions for the temple are precise, reflecting His nature of order and intentionality. Believers are called to seek and follow God's detailed plans for their lives.

Holiness and Obedience
The temple's design and statutes emphasize holiness. Christians are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes, in obedience to His Word.

Symbolism of the Temple
The temple symbolizes God's presence. In the New Covenant, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to reflect God's presence in the world.

Hope and Future Fulfillment
The vision of the temple points to a future hope of complete restoration and communion with God, encouraging believers to live with an eternal perspective.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of shame and repentance in Ezekiel 43:11 relate to the process of spiritual renewal in your own life?

2. In what ways can the detailed design of the temple inspire you to seek God's specific plans and purposes for your life?

3. How does the symbolism of the temple as God's dwelling place influence your understanding of being the temple of the Holy Spirit today?

4. What parallels can you draw between the restoration of the temple in Ezekiel and the promise of a new creation in Revelation 21?

5. How can the principles of holiness and obedience found in the temple's statutes be applied to your daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, which parallels the detailed design of the temple in Ezekiel, emphasizing God's desire for order and holiness.

1 Kings 6-7
The construction of Solomon's Temple, which serves as a historical reference for the temple's significance and God's dwelling among His people.

Hebrews 8-10
The New Testament discussion of the heavenly sanctuary and Christ as the ultimate high priest, connecting the physical temple to spiritual realities.

Revelation 21
The vision of the New Jerusalem, where God's presence is fully realized, echoing the ultimate fulfillment of the temple's purpose.