Ezekiel 40:40 KJV

And at the side without, as one goeth up to the entry of the north gate, were two tables; and on the other side, which was at the porch of the gate, were two tables.

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Ezekiel 40:40 Bible Commentary

Ezekiel 40:40 Commentary

Bible Verse: Ezekiel 40:40 - "And the four tables were of hewn stone for the burnt offerings, of a cubit and a half long, and a cubit and a half broad, and one cubit high: whereupon also they laid the instruments wherewith they slew the burnt offering and the sacrifice."

Contextual Overview

In Ezekiel's vision of the new temple, detailed in the latter chapters of the book, this verse describes the specifics of the altar area. The meticulous nature of the measurements and materials used speaks to the holiness and precision required in approaching God through sacrifices. This section serves as an introduction to the arrangements made for burnt offerings.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of the altar tables made of hewn stone. He notes that in these tables, which were designated for burnt offerings, we see a typology of Christ. He draws parallels to the New Testament, where Christ is both the sacrifice and the altar upon which the sacrifice was made. The precision of the measurements highlights God’s order and the need for purity in worship. The use of hewn stone also denotes strength and durability, symbolizing that the worship offered requires a solid foundation of truth and faith.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes focuses on the practical application of this verse, noting that the specifications reveal the seriousness with which God approaches the sacrificial system. He gives importance to the measurement of the tables, which conveys the idea that God desires order and significance in worship practices. Barnes believes that the altar's dimensions serve as a reminder of the holiness of God and the necessity for His people to bring their offerings with reverence and adherence to divine guidelines. He stresses that every act of worship must be intentional and significant.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a deeper analysis of the materials and dimensions mentioned in this passage. He sees the hewn stones as indicative of the hard work and preparation needed in presenting offerings to God. Clarke elaborates on the symbolism of the cubit measurements—cubit and a half long and broad signify not just physical dimensions but also the sufficiency of what is required from the people regarding their offerings. He points out that the details provided in Ezekiel serve a didactic purpose, teaching the people of Israel the importance of following divine ordinances in their worship. Moreover, he emphasizes that the instruments laid upon these tables remind worshippers of the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement.

Combined Insights

The collective insights from these commentaries align in recognizing the detail-oriented nature of God’s instructions regarding worship. Each commentator highlights the importance of the dimensions and materials used, underlying the principles of holiness, reverence, and the seriousness of approaching God with the right heart and intentions.

  • Symbolism of Materials: The hewn stones symbolize the effort and sincerity needed in administrative worship.
  • Dimensions and Spiritual Reflection: The measurements illustrate the required posture of the heart in acceptable worship.
  • Typology of Christ: The sacrificial tables serve as a prefiguration of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.
  • Call to Order: The meticulous nature of the instructions reflects God's desire for order and reverence in worship.

Theological Implications

The theological significance of Ezekiel 40:40 can be seen in several dimensions:

  • Worship and Sacrifice: This passage underscores the gravity and method of worship prescribed by God, which is essential for believers, encouraging present-day worshippers to approach God through Christ with a heart of repentance and humility.
  • God's Holiness: The details surrounding the altar reinforce the concept of God’s holiness and the need for purity in offerings, suggesting that contemporary believers must still maintain a lifestyle reflective of that holiness.
  • Divine Order: The precision God demands invites reflection on the importance of structure and order in the life of the church, implying that worship should not be haphazard but rather systematic and rooted in biblical truth.

Application for Today

As this verse is examined, it invites pastors, theologians, and Bible students to consider how the principles of worship and sacrificial preparation apply to modern congregational life. Here are points of application:

  • Pursuit of Holiness: Encourage congregations to develop a deeper understanding of what it means to be holy and how that reflects in their lives.
  • Worship as a Serious Act: Remind worshippers that every act of worship—be it singing, praying, or offering—is a serious engagement with the divine.
  • Intentionality in Worship: Foster an atmosphere where worship is planned and executed with care, emphasizing the importance of aligning with God’s will and ways.