Ezekiel 43:5

Then the Spirit lifted me up and brought me into the inner court, and the glory of the LORD filled the temple.

Study Bible

The Spirit
In Ezekiel 43:5, "The Spirit" refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, who is active throughout the Bible in guiding, empowering, and revealing God's presence to His people. In Hebrew, the word for spirit is "ruach," which can mean breath, wind, or spirit. This emphasizes the dynamic and life-giving nature of the Holy Spirit. In the context of Ezekiel, the Spirit's role is crucial as it signifies God's direct intervention and presence, leading Ezekiel into a deeper understanding of God's glory and purpose.

lifted me up
The phrase "lifted me up" suggests a divine action where Ezekiel is physically or spiritually elevated by God's power. This lifting is not merely a change in physical position but symbolizes a spiritual elevation, an invitation to see from God's perspective. The Hebrew root "nasa" conveys the idea of being carried or borne, indicating that Ezekiel is being taken to a place of revelation and insight that he could not reach on his own.

and brought me
This phrase indicates a purposeful movement orchestrated by God. The Hebrew verb "bo" means to come or to bring, suggesting that Ezekiel is being led intentionally by the Spirit to a specific location. This movement is not random but part of God's divine plan to reveal His glory and instructions to Ezekiel. It underscores the idea that God is actively guiding His prophets to fulfill His purposes.

into the inner court
The "inner court" refers to the sacred area within the temple complex, closer to the Holy of Holies, where God's presence dwells. In the historical and archaeological context, the inner court was a place of restricted access, reserved for priests and those performing sacred duties. By bringing Ezekiel into the inner court, God is granting him a privileged position to witness His glory and to receive His divine instructions, highlighting the prophet's role as an intermediary between God and His people.

and the glory of the LORD
The "glory of the LORD" is a recurring theme in Ezekiel, representing God's majestic presence and divine holiness. The Hebrew word "kavod" conveys a sense of weightiness and splendor, signifying the overwhelming and awe-inspiring nature of God's presence. In the biblical narrative, God's glory often appears in the form of a radiant light or cloud, symbolizing His purity and power. This manifestation of glory serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His desire to dwell among His people.

filled the temple
The phrase "filled the temple" indicates the complete and overwhelming presence of God within His holy sanctuary. This filling is reminiscent of the dedication of Solomon's temple, where the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD (1 Kings 8:10-11). It signifies God's acceptance of the temple as His dwelling place and His intention to be intimately involved with His people. The filling of the temple with God's glory is a powerful image of His desire to be present with His people, to guide, protect, and bless them as they live in obedience to His covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's visions and messages, tasked with conveying them to the Israelites.

2. The Spirit
Refers to the Spirit of God, who actively guides and empowers Ezekiel throughout his prophetic ministry.

3. The Inner Court
Part of the temple structure, the inner court is a sacred space closer to the Holy of Holies, symbolizing a deeper communion with God.

4. The Glory of the LORD
Represents God's manifest presence, often depicted as a radiant light or cloud, signifying His holiness and majesty.

5. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people and the focal point of His covenant relationship with them.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Spirit's lifting of Ezekiel signifies the empowerment and guidance believers receive from the Holy Spirit today. We are called to be sensitive to His leading in our lives.

God's Desire to Dwell Among His People
The filling of the temple with God's glory underscores His desire for intimate fellowship with His people. We are invited to cultivate a personal relationship with God, allowing His presence to fill our lives.

Holiness and Reverence
The inner court's sacredness reminds us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. Our lives should reflect His holiness as we become living temples of His Spirit.

Transformation Through God's Presence
Just as the temple was transformed by God's glory, our lives are transformed when we invite His presence to dwell within us, leading to spiritual growth and renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Holy Spirit in Ezekiel's vision relate to the Holy Spirit's work in the life of a believer today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence in our daily lives, similar to the filling of the temple with His glory?

3. What does the concept of the inner court teach us about the importance of personal holiness and reverence in our relationship with God?

4. How can the transformation of the temple by God's glory inspire us to seek transformation in our own lives?

5. How do the events in Ezekiel 43:5 connect with the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40:34-35
The glory of the LORD filling the tabernacle parallels the filling of the temple in Ezekiel, emphasizing God's desire to dwell among His people.

1 Kings 8:10-11
The glory of the LORD filling Solomon's temple highlights the continuity of God's presence from the tabernacle to the temple.

Acts 2:1-4
The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost signifies the new temple of God in the hearts of believers, echoing the filling of the temple with God's glory.