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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 44 - Verse 16

44:16
They shall enter into my sanctuary, and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge.

Meaning

When the verse speaks about entering into the sanctuary and coming near to the table to minister unto the Lord and keep His charge, it is referring to the sacred duty and privilege of serving God in His temple. In the Old Testament, the sanctuary was the holiest place where God's presence dwelled, and only appointed priests and Levites were allowed to enter and serve. By ministering at His table, individuals were symbolically offering themselves and their gifts to the Lord, showing their commitment and devotion to Him. Keeping His charge meant faithfully following His commandments and serving Him wholeheartedly. This verse highlights the importance of worship, service, and obedience to God, reminding believers of the honor and responsibility of serving in His presence. It encourages individuals to approach God with reverence, dedication, and a desire to serve Him with their whole being.

Theological Overview

When exploring the theological interpretation of the verse "They shall enter into my sanctuary, and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge," it is important to understand the symbolic significance of the sanctuary and the table in the context of the Bible. The sanctuary represents the presence of God and His holy dwelling place, signifying a sacred and intimate encounter with the divine. Coming near to God's table signifies partaking in a fellowship meal with Him, conveying a sense of communion and intimacy. Ministering unto God at His table symbolizes serving Him with reverence, obedience, and devotion. Keeping His charge refers to carrying out His instructions and commands faithfully. Thus, this verse emphasizes the privilege and responsibility of drawing near to God, serving Him diligently, and remaining faithful to His word.

American Standard Version

they shall enter into my sanctuary, and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge.
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