The Inner Court

The temple was central to Ezekiel’s ministry. He lived and prophesied before and after the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BC. And one of the cornerstones of his book was the vision God showed him about the temple (Ezekiel 40-43). For Ezekiel, the temple was central to God’s interaction with His people.

Ezekiel’s ministry is uniquely focused on the inner court of the temple, which is mentioned 16 times in his book. In his vision, as he entered the inner court, Ezekiel fell on his face. Not able to boast in his own skills and abilities, he recognized that God was holy, righteous, and all-powerful. Then, as he completely surrendered to Him, the “glory of the Lord came into the temple” (Ezekiel 43:4-5).

The inner court symbolizes a personal relationship with God Himself. This is the kind of intimate relationship He wants with each of us. Instead of just knowing about Him, He wants us to know Him personally.

In this place of intimacy, our lives are transformed. We experience the fullness of His presence and power. His promises come alive. Our eyes are opened to greater insights and more of His wisdom.

Yet many Christians never enter this inner court. They stay outside, content with a superficial relationship with God. They fail to surrender everything to Him. They allow their lives to be controlled by the flesh, instead of being filled with the Spirit and surrendered to lordship of Jesus. They cherish the things of this world rather than the deep things of God.

Today, seek a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Fall on your face before Him. Worship Him.