Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Ezekiel

Ezekiel 
Day 
Day 474

"THE LORD IS THERE"

Text: Ezekiel 48:35

THE NAME OF THE HOLY CITY

Jerusalem was originally a Jebusite stronghold which was conquered by King David. Its name was Zion. David gave the city a new name. It was called “The City of David” (2 Samuel 5:7). The name Jerusalem and Zion were used interchangeably. However, in the Millennial Kingdom, a new name would be given.

“These are the exits of the city. On the north side, measuring four thousand five hundred cubits (the gates of the city shall be named after the tribes of Israel), the three gates northward: one gate for Reuben, one gate for Judah, and one gate for Levi; on the east side, four thousand five hundred cubits, three gates: one gate for Joseph, one gate for Benjamin, and one gate for Dan; on the south side, measuring four thousand five hundred cubits, three gates: one gate for Simeon, one gate for Issachar, and one gate for Zebulun; on the west side, four thousand five hundred cubits with their three gates: one gate for Gad, one gate for Asher, and one gate for Naphtali. All the way around shall be eighteen thousand cubits; and the name of the city from that day shall be: THE LORD IS THERE.”
Ezekiel 48:30-35

1. The City Gates.

a) All cities had gates.

b) These Gates served a number of purposes:

i) Entrance

ii) Exit

iii) Commerce

2. The City Gates of Jerusalem.

a) There would be Twelve Gates.

b) Each Gate would be named after the 12 tribes of Israel.

c) The original names of the Twelve sons of Jacob would be used.

d) The names of Ephraim and Manasseh would not be used.

e) The name of Joseph would be used instead.

f) The name of the City Gate was done in honour of the 12 Patriarchs.

3. The new name for the Holy City.

a) The LORD is there.

b) In Hebrew YHWH Shamma.

c) The significance of this new name.

i) It would not be the old name of the Jebusite City (Zion).

ii) It would not be called “The City of David” for that honours King David.

iii) The honour would be given to the LORD (YHWH).

iv) The word “Shamma” means “Presence” (God would be there with His people).

v) This honour and glory given to God is absolutely correct!

vi) The City of Jerusalem would be filled with God’s Presence. YHWH would be there among His people! Amen and Amen!