Ezekiel 48:35

The perimeter of the city will be 18,000 cubits, and from that day on the name of the city will be: THE LORD IS THERE."

Study Bible

And the name of the city
This phrase signifies the importance of names in biblical times, often reflecting character, purpose, or divine promise. In Hebrew culture, a name was not just a label but a declaration of identity and destiny. The city referred to here is the New Jerusalem, a prophetic vision of a restored and holy city. This city represents the culmination of God's redemptive plan, a place where His presence is fully realized.

from that time on
This phrase indicates a perpetual state, suggesting a transformation that is both immediate and eternal. It marks a new era in the relationship between God and His people. Historically, this reflects the hope of the Israelites for a future where God's promises are fulfilled, and His presence is unceasing. It speaks to the eschatological hope of Christians for the eternal reign of God.

will be
This future tense verb underscores the certainty and assurance of God's promises. It is not a mere possibility but a definitive declaration. In the context of biblical prophecy, it emphasizes God's sovereignty and faithfulness. The assurance that this will come to pass is a cornerstone of Christian hope, rooted in the trustworthiness of God's word.

The LORD Is There
This is the English translation of the Hebrew name "Yahweh Shammah." It encapsulates the essence of God's promise to dwell among His people. The name signifies God's omnipresence and His intimate relationship with His creation. In the historical context of Israel, it was a profound assurance of God's continued presence despite their exile and suffering. For Christians, it is a foretaste of the ultimate fulfillment in the New Heaven and New Earth, where God's presence will be fully realized. This name is a source of comfort and hope, reminding believers that God is always with them, guiding and sustaining them through life's journey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who received visions and messages during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's word to the Israelites.

2. The City
Refers to the future city of Jerusalem, symbolizing the restored presence of God among His people.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

4. The Name The LORD Is There (Yahweh Shammah)
A prophetic declaration of God's abiding presence in the city, signifying hope and restoration.

5. The Perimeter (18,000 cubits)
Represents the dimensions of the city, emphasizing its completeness and divine order.

Teaching Points

God's Presence as Assurance
The name "The LORD Is There" assures believers of God's constant presence, providing comfort and strength in all circumstances.

Hope in Restoration
Just as the city symbolizes restoration, believers can have hope in God's power to restore and renew their lives.

Divine Order and Completeness
The specific dimensions of the city reflect God's perfect plan and order, encouraging trust in His divine purposes.

Covenant Faithfulness
God's presence in the city underscores His faithfulness to His covenant promises, reminding believers of His unchanging nature.

Living as God's Dwelling
As believers, we are called to be living temples of God's presence, reflecting His glory in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the name "The LORD Is There" impact your understanding of God's presence in your life today?

2. In what ways can the promise of God's presence bring comfort during times of uncertainty or difficulty?

3. How does the vision of the future city in Ezekiel 48:35 connect with the description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21?

4. What practical steps can you take to cultivate an awareness of God's presence in your daily routine?

5. How does understanding God's covenant faithfulness in Ezekiel 48:35 encourage you to trust His promises in other areas of your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, where God's presence is fully realized among His people, echoing the promise of "The LORD Is There."

Exodus 40
The glory of the LORD filling the tabernacle, illustrating God's desire to dwell among His people.

John 1:14
The Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, fulfilling the promise of God's presence.

Psalm 46
God as a refuge and strength, a present help, reinforcing the theme of His presence.

Matthew 28:20
Jesus' promise to be with His disciples always, connecting to the assurance of God's presence.