MYSTERY SOLVED!!!
Jesus / Yeshua the Messiah is the Prince of Ezekiel 1. Ezekiel’s prince is Israel’s one and only shepherd. 2. Ezekiel’s shepherd prince is also the king and prince forever. 3. Only the prince has the exclusive privilege to eat in the temple’s most sacred area. 4. The prince, as an individual, is entitled to a large allotment of land in restored Israel – land that is central, choice and holy. It is very large - an allotment equivalent to that of a tribe. 5. There will be a reestablishment of the temple priesthood DURING THE MILLENIUM and the prince / king will also function as high priest in presenting offerings for the people and to make atonement for the house of Israel. However, not only does he intercede for the people, he also worships with the people. 6. The prince is able to share his inheritance with sons and servants.
the following (IN BLUE) is a BRIEF summary of the 6 VITAL points as to why no one else could be Ezekiel’s prince but YESHUA / JESUS CHRIST:
Introduction
It is now 2009. It is believed by many that we are living in the “last days.” We are seeing prophecy being fulfilled before our eyes daily - with much more prophecy to be unfolded in the days to come. The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ came nearly 2,000 years ago to provide a blood sacrifice for the sins of man. Whoever believes on Him can receive eternal life and be saved from eternal death.
In the near future the earth will see and experience things that have never been seen and experienced before – as foretold in the Bible. Great judgments and distresses are coming; a great number of deaths and vast destruction. All these things will culminate in the 2nd coming of Christ the Messiah. With His next advent, He will not come as the Lamb of God to pay for sins; He will come as a powerful judge and conquering king. He will come as Israel’s promised Messiah and will rule the world in peace for 1,000 years!
Since these things are coming quickly on the earth, there is a great deal of interest in the things (and age) to come. And there is no other source like the Holy Scriptures to explain what God has planned for the future of this earth.
There are a lot of good books and commentaries out there about Christ’s 2nd coming and the Kingdom Age (Millennium). However, even in these good resources, there is a topic of controversy and misunderstanding that many cannot agree upon - the identity of the prince of Ezekiel. However, when we take a close look at the scriptural clues and discover the true identity of this prince – we get a clearer picture the great redemptive plan of God and the promises He intends to fulfill for the nation of Israel and the world.
It can be clearly established that the temple described by Ezekiel is a future temple because it is one that has many exact specifications and functions given to us by God - but has not yet ever been built. Some call it the future 3rd temple - but it is also possible for Ezekiel’s temple to be a future 4th temple (because a 3rd temple could possibly be erected during the “great tribulation period”).
This final millennial temple will exist in a time of safety, righteousness and prosperity; a time when the glory of God will return to His tabernacle as in the days of old. It will also be a time that animal sacrifices will resume on God’s holy mountain. Temple worship will continue until the end of time – until this current earth is replaced with a new one. On the new earth, there will no longer be anymore temple (Rev. 21:22); God will dwell with all his people face to face and will no longer require “natural” sacrifices.
There appears to be some uncertainty as to the meaning and purpose of millennial sacrifices – especially in light of the fact that Hebrews says that Jesus died once for all sins (and animal sacrifices are no longer necessary (Hebrews 10:4-10, Romans 6:10); for more info on this problem see Q&A at the bottom). There is also disagreement as to who the prince of Ezekiel because of the supposed conflicting description of this person’s duties and nature. So the purpose of this study is to show, in detail, what the scriptures say and hopefully clear up some confusion. With prayer, it is hoped that you, the reader, will enhance your understanding on this subject.
The end is coming quickly upon the earth and we need to prepare ourselves for what is coming. There are many issues that are not addressed in this study such as: the rapture, the beast & one world government, the battle of Armageddon, final judgment, new heaven & earth, etc. As previously mentioned, these topics are adequately addressed in other books & commentaries already available. The main purpose of this study is to show from scripture that the Prince of Ezekiel is none other than Jesus / Yeshua the Messiah who is soon to come again.
If you are not saved - have not accepted Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah as your personal Savior – you are urged to do so. Those who die without salvation will face an eternity separated from God in terrible punishment. Repent of your sins and live holy unto the Lord God. At the end of your days He will reward you with the crown of eternal life.
John 3:16-18 (New King James Version)
16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
Ezekiel’s Prince
The latter part of Ezekiel talks about a mysterious figure simply called “the prince.” There is no general agreement on if this prince is the messiah, a religious / political leader, a vicegerent for the messiah, a resurrected king David or someone else (other than the messiah) from David’s lineage. However, God (through Ezekiel and other prophets) gives us adequate facts to help identify who this prince is. Not only that, the book of Ezekiel is not an island to itself; it is part of the whole of Scripture given to us by God. We would do well to interpret the Bible in light of other Scripture. It is Scripture alone that has the precedent and authority over ideology, doctrine, opinions and even visions or dreams.
Before examining the prophet Ezekiel, let’s look at something from Isaiah about God’s righteous servant – whom all Christians agree is about none other than the messiah - Jesus Christ of Nazareth. As we remember what other scriptures say about the messiah, it is easier to keep all scriptures in their proper context. We can see how all the Biblical clues fit together in the mosaic of messianic attributes. Likewise throughout this study, we need to remember that different scriptures refer to the messiah in different ways at different times, including (but not limited to): a prophet, a teacher, a preacher, a healer, our sacrifice, our redeemer, our high priest, prince, king – creator, judge, God and God’s Son.
Isaiah 53:10-12 (New King James Version)
10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise Him;
He has put Him to grief.
When You make His soul an offering for sin,
He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days,
And the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in His hand.
11 He shall see the labor of His soul, and be satisfied.
By His knowledge My righteous Servant shall justify many,
For He shall bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great,
And He shall divide the spoil with the strong,
Because He poured out His soul unto death,
And He was numbered with the transgressors,
And He bore the sin of many,
And made intercession for the transgressors.
Notice a few key things from this Isaiah prophecy - God’s righteous servant will:
1) Make His soul an offering for sin
2) Will see seed (children/offspring)
3) Will prolong His days
4) He will bring pleasure to the Lord (by his own hand,
not someone else’s hand)
5) Will justify many (by bearing sin & iniquity)
6) Will receive a portion with the great
7) Shall divide the spoil with the strong
8) Because he poured out His soul unto DEATH
9) He was numbered with transgressors
10) And he made intercession for transgressors.
There is no way the natural mind can process or understand this great Isaiah passage apart from the miracle of Christ’s resurrection! Christ’s life did not end at the cross. He lives! He shall see seed. He shall prolong His days. He will receive a portion among the great. He shall divide the spoil with the strong. And guess what? We see great evidence and confirmation of these same promises put forth in the Ezekiel prophecies as well. Many Christians focus only on the fact that Jesus paid for sins to open the way to heaven as if it all ends there. But it is shown that He does so much more than just die for sins. He has a vital role to play in the plan of God’s coming kingdom on earth.
FACT #1: Ezekiel’s prince is Israel’s ONE and ONLY shepherd. Ezekiel 34:22-24 (NKJV)
22 Therefore I will save My flock, and they shall no longer be a prey; and I will judge between sheep and sheep. 23 I will establish ONE shepherd over them, and he shall feed them—My servant David. He shall feed them and be their shepherd. 24 And I, the LORD, will be their God, and My servant David a prince among them; I, the LORD, have spoken.
Most Jews and Christians alike agree that the reference to David here is a messianic reference to the “son of David” the one promised to take David’s throne – although some take the position that this reference to David is literal. Well most Jews would never consider this reference to David as being literal since David had already been dead for 400 years when this was written. Besides, God never promised David that he would be reinstalled on his own throne – God promised that it would be one of his descendants, from his own body. God never promised David that he would be Israel’s one and only shepherd. This promise was reserved for one of David’s descendants. Also, David was never considered a “prince” but a king.
This future “Davidic servant” will be Israel’s one shepherd. If there is only one shepherd that means he is the one and only. There is no other shepherd but this servant “David” – who will also be a prince among the people. Also notice the same word “servant” used both here and in the Isaiah prophecy. This servant shepherd must be none other than the son of David, Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah.
Ezekiel (and the rest of Scripture) does not mention the prominent positions of any vicegerent, under shepherds, etc. The main focus here is on the most important person. Any other teaching is simply theory or man-made doctrine.
Think about this: Was Jesus making a reference to these Ezekiel passages when he made the following statements?
John 10:11 (New King James Version)
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.
John 10:14-16 (New King James Version)
14 I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. 15 As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.
Matthew 25:31-33 (New King James Version)
31 “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33 And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
FACT #2: Ezekiel’s shepherd prince is also a king and a prince FOREVER. Ezekiel 37:23-26 (NKJV)
23 They shall not defile themselves anymore with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions; but I will deliver them from all their dwelling places in which they have sinned, and will cleanse them. Then they shall be My people, and I will be their God. 24 “David My servant shall be king over them, and they shall all have one shepherd; they shall also walk in My judgments and observe My statutes, and do them. 25 Then they shall dwell in the land that I have given to Jacob My servant, where your fathers dwelt; and they shall dwell there, they, their children, and their children’s children, forever; and My servant David shall be their prince forever. 26 Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them, and it shall be an everlasting covenant with them; I will establish them and multiply them, and I will set My sanctuary in their midst forevermore.
This passage in Ezekiel says that THIS SERVANT WILL BE PRINCE FOREVER! Let’s see it again: This one prince will rule forever! This is amazing. And this is straight out of the mouth of God Himself. This completely rules out this prince being a regular mortal man. The only way anyone could rule forever is to be immortal. Since Jesus has risen from the dead and is still alive – He can clearly fulfill this prophecy with no problem. It seems to be that a lot of readers of Ezekiel miss this very important point.
Some like to think that perhaps David of old will be a resurrected prince (under the king) and that the Messiah will be King. However, it is clearly stated here that this unique man is BOTH prince AND king. Let’s hear that again too – he is both prince and king all by himself! This one person fulfills both these offices. There is no mention of a vicegerent or any significant others here.
A king is the supreme rule and law of the land. This man will be a prince among them AND a king over them – forever. There will NEVER be anyone after him. This prince and king can be none other than Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah – the royal son of David and heir to his throne.
Psalm 132:11 (New King James Version)
11 The LORD has sworn in truth to David;
He will not turn from it:
“I will set upon your throne the fruit of your body.”
Jeremiah 23:5-6 (New King James Version)
5 “ Behold, the days are coming,” says the LORD,
“That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness;
A King shall reign and prosper,
And execute judgment and righteousness in the earth.
6 In His days Judah will be saved,
And Israel will dwell safely;
Now this is His name by which He will be called:
THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.
Isaiah 9:6-7 (New King James Version)
6 For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Revelation 22:16 (New King James Version)
16 “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”
The remaining references to “the prince” in Ezekiel do not mention the name of David again because it has already been established by God that He is referring to the promised one – the prince / king / messiah who will come from David’s lineage. From this point on he is simply known as the prince. If God or Ezekiel were really referring to the “first David” then it would make sense that they would continue to call him by name; but they don’t because David here is used as a messianic title.
There are a few Biblical prophecies that were recorded long after David’s death where God says he is going to “raise David up.” Although David will rise in the resurrection, these prophecies are a reference to God raising the messiah from David’s lineage. There will never be another person to take his unique position since it is clearly established that he will be the eternal prince and king of Israel – forever.
FACT #3: Only the prince has the exclusive privilege to eat in the temple’s most sacred area. Ezekiel 43:1-3 & 44:2-3 (NKJV)
1 Afterward he brought me to the gate, the gate that faces toward the east. 2 And behold, the glory of the God of Israel came [to the temple] from the way of the east. His voice was like the sound of many waters; and the earth shone with His glory. 3 It was like the appearance of the vision which I saw—like the vision which I saw when I came to destroy the city. The visions were like the vision which I saw by the River Chebar; and I fell on my face.
2 And the LORD said to me, “This gate shall be shut; it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter by it, because the LORD God of Israel has entered by it; therefore it shall be shut. 3 As for the prince, because he is THE prince, he may sit in it to eat bread before the LORD; he shall enter by way of the vestibule of the gateway, and go out the same way.”
In the millennial temple (the latter days), God’s glorious presence will return to the temple as in the days of old. His glory will come from the East and enter the gate facing the East. Once the Lord enters, the gate will be shut and NO ONE will be allowed to enter it - no one of course, except the prince. The following are a few more verses about the coming glory of God’s latter house:
Isaiah 2:2 (New King James Version)
2 Now it shall come to pass in the latter days
That the mountain of the LORD’s house
Shall be established on the top of the mountains,
And shall be exalted above the hills;
And all nations shall flow to it.
Haggai 2:9 (New King James Version)
9 ‘The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘And in this place I will give peace,’ says the LORD of hosts.”
Now, one of the purposes of animal sacrifices is to prepare meals for consumption. In God’s house there will be places to pray, worship, and eat. In this future temple complex there will be many areas for believers to gather for food and fellowship.
Jeremiah 31:12 (New International Version)
12 They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion;
they will rejoice in the bounty of the LORD—
the grain, the new wine and the oil,
the young of the flocks and herds.
They will be like a well-watered garden,
and they will sorrow no more.
However, the prince is the ONLY person who has the privilege of eating in the Eastern Gate area of the God’s earthly house – the entrance where God almighty enters the temple. Once again: the prince is the ONLY ONE and no one else. If this honor goes to a resurrected king David, a non-messiah, a vicegerent or some other mortal – then where does that leave the Lord Jesus? If there were 2 people who were allowed this distinct privilege (David AND Jesus) it would make sense that the Bible would say so. But the Bible clearly says that this privilege is reserved for only one person alone (the prince). This gate is no ordinary gate and the prince no ordinary prince. The exclusive privilege to eat in the gate of God’s presence will belong to none other than Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah.
Fact #4: The prince, as an individual, is entitled to a large allotment of land in restored Israel – land that is central, choice and holy. It is VERY LARGE - an allotment EQUIVALENT to that of a tribe. Ezekiel 45:6-8 and 48:20-22 (NKJV)
6 “You shall appoint as the property of the city an area five thousand cubits wide and twenty-five thousand long, adjacent to the district of the holy section; it shall belong to the whole house of Israel. 7 “The prince shall have a section on one side and the other of the holy district and the city’s property; and bordering on the holy district and the city’s property, extending westward on the west side and eastward on the east side, the length shall be side by side with one of the tribal portions, from the west border to the east border. 8 The land shall be his possession in Israel;”
Ezekiel 48:20-22 (New King James Version)
20 The entire district shall be twenty-five thousand cubits by twenty-five thousand cubits, foursquare. You shall set apart the holy district with the property of the city.
21 “The rest shall belong to the prince, on one side and on the other of the holy district and of the city’s property, next to the twenty-five thousand cubits of the holy district as far as the eastern border, and westward next to the twenty-five thousand as far as the western border, adjacent to the tribal portions; it shall belong to the prince. It shall be the holy district, and the sanctuary of the temple shall be in the center. 22 Moreover, apart from the possession of the Levites and the possession of the city which are in the midst of what belongs to the prince, the area between the border of Judah and the border of Benjamin shall belong to the prince.
(For sample pictures of the future temple and land divisions, a good resource is http://www.sonstoglory.com/ThirdTempleEzekielsMillennialTemple.htm. Please note: This site is recommended for their models and graphs - which are helpful; however a few of their teachings (not all) about the 2nd coming, the prince or millennium appear to be problematic in their interpretation).
Now, this is a vast amount of land for one person. And if all this land goes to one person forever - other than Jesus the Messiah – then where does the Messiah lay His head? Where is the portion for God’s servant that was promised to him? During the millennium will Jesus still have to wander from house to house? Sleep in the wilderness? Govern from a tent? Of course not! Who is more worthy than Jesus (the “firstborn” – Revelation 1:5) to receive the greatest inheritance among God’s people?
It has been suggested that the messiah would simply live in the temple. However the temple is the place for teaching and worship. And with all the detailed information given about this temple, nothing is ever mentioned about quarters for the prince or the messiah. Even the ordinary priests are given an allotment of land within the Holy District. Why wouldn’t this king live in a royal palace on a royal estate like any other earthly king?
Furthermore, we are also told that after the times of worship, the prince will “go out” with the people (Ezek 46:2, 46:8, 46:10). So it only makes sense that He will leave the temple and go to his royal estate. God (through Ezekiel) is telling us that this eternal, shepherd, prince, and king will be entitled to a “lion’s share” of the promise land. This is very much fitting for God’s firstborn who is also ruler of Israel and the world. If David and Solomon lived in glory and splendor – how much more should the long-awaited Messiah of the world?
Isaiah 53:12 (New King James Version)
12 Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great,
And He shall divide the spoil with the strong,
Because He poured out His soul unto death,
And He was numbered with the transgressors,
And He bore the sin of many,
And made intercession for the transgressors.
Revelation 5:5a (New King James Version)
5 But one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed…”
FACT #5: There will be a reestablishment of the temple priesthood and the prince/king will also function as HIGH PRIEST in presenting offerings for the people and to make atonement for the house of Israel. However, not only does he intercede FOR the people, he also worships WITH the people. Ezekiel 45:15-17 and 45:21-23 (NKJV)
15 And one lamb shall be given from a flock of two hundred, from the rich pastures of Israel. These shall be for grain offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings, to make atonement for them,” says the Lord GOD. 16 “All the people of the land shall give this offering for the prince in Israel. 17 Then it shall be the prince’s part to give burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings, at the feasts, the New Moons, the Sabbaths, and at all the appointed seasons of the house of Israel. He shall prepare the sin offering, the grain offering, the burnt offering, and the peace offerings to make atonement for the house of Israel.”
21 “In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month, you shall observe the Passover, a feast of seven days; unleavened bread shall be eaten. 22 And on that day the prince shall prepare for himself and for all the people of the land a bull for a sin offering. 23 On the seven days of the feast he shall prepare a burnt offering to the LORD, seven bulls and seven rams without blemish, daily for seven days, and a kid of the goats daily for a sin offering.
Ezekiel 46:1-3 (NKJV)
1 ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “The gateway of the inner court that faces toward the east shall be shut the six working days; but on the Sabbath it shall be opened, and on the day of the New Moon it shall be opened. 2 The prince shall enter by way of the vestibule of the gateway from the outside, and stand by the gatepost. The priests shall prepare his burnt offering and his peace offerings. He shall worship at the threshold of the gate. Then he shall go out, but the gate shall not be shut until evening. 3 Likewise the people of the land shall worship at the entrance to this gateway before the LORD on the Sabbaths and the New Moons.
Ezekiel 46:9-12 (NKJV)
9 “But when the people of the land come before the LORD on the appointed feast days, whoever enters by way of the north gate to worship shall go out by way of the south gate; and whoever enters by way of the south gate shall go out by way of the north gate. He shall not return by way of the gate through which he came, but shall go out through the opposite gate. 10 The prince shall then be in their midst. When they go in, he shall go in; and when they go out, he shall go out. 11 At the festivals and the appointed feast days the grain offering shall be an ephah for a bull, an ephah for a ram, as much as he wants to give for the lambs, and a hin of oil with every ephah. 12 Now when the prince makes a voluntary burnt offering or voluntary peace offering to the LORD, the gate that faces toward the east shall then be opened for him; and he shall prepare his burnt offering and his peace offerings as he did on the Sabbath day. Then he shall go out, and after he goes out the gate shall be shut.
From these passages of Ezekiel we see that the prince (the one and only eternal, servant, shepherd, Davidic prince and king) presents a sin offering for himself and for the people. Now, there are many who say that this prince, therefore, cannot be Jesus because He was perfect and would not need to present a sin offering for himself.
But consider this: Since Jesus was perfect and sinless, why was he baptized in water? John the Baptist did not want to baptize Jesus because only sinners in need of repentance were baptized by him. John declared that he not even worthy to carry his sandals (Matt 3:11) and wanted to be baptized by Him. Well, we are told in Scripture that Jesus was baptized in water in order to fulfill all righteousness – not because He was a sinner. Remember the words of the Lord Himself:
Matthew 5:17 (New King James Version)
17 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.
Luke 24:44 (New King James Version)
44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that ALL THINGS must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.”
Although Jesus has clearly fulfilled many of the messianic prophecies, it is also clear that Jesus has not yet fulfilled ALL THINGS written in the law, prophets and psalms concerning Him. There are many prophecies that will be fulfilled in the future. This is why He has solemnly promised that He is coming again. Among the prophecies yet to be fulfilled are these Ezekiel prophecies. Contrary to what many may think – Jesus / Yeshua was and remains “Torah observant.”
Matthew 5:18 (New King James Version)
18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled.
Therefore, Jesus will offer a sin offering for himself and all the people for the same reason he was baptized as a sinless man: to fulfill all righteousness and the requirements of God’s law. It is also a way that he will continue to identify himself as one of us – “the son of man” and a reminder to all that “He who knew no sin became sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in [Christ Jesus]” (2 Corinth 5:21). What a powerful witness to the humility, humanity and meekness of Christ our King.
Isaiah 53:12 (b) (New King James Version)
... And He was numbered with the transgressors,
And He bore the sin of many,
And made intercession for the transgressors.
Furthermore, Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah will give offerings for the people because He is also High Priest forever:
Psalm 110:4 (New King James Version)
4 The LORD has sworn
And will not relent,
“You are a priest forever
According to the order of Melchizedek.”
Hebrews 4:14-15 (New King James Version)
14 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.
Hebrews 7:24 (New King James Version)
24 But He, because He continues forever, has an unchangeable priesthood.
Zechariah 6:12-13 (New King James Version)
12 Then speak to him, saying, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, saying:
“Behold, the Man whose name is the BRANCH!
From His place He shall branch out,
And He shall build the temple of the LORD;
13 Yes, He shall build the temple of the LORD.
He shall bear the glory,
And shall sit and rule on His throne;
So He shall be a priest on His throne,
And the counsel of peace shall be between them both.”’
The above passage from Zechariah is a messianic prophecy, since no king in Israel’s history served a dual role as both king and priest.
So then, who but the Lamb of God would be qualified enough to be both king and priest to make atonement for the House of Israel? There is none other than Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah who is worthy to make atonement for God’s people.
Fact #5 The prince is able to share his inheritance with sons and servants. Ezekiel 46:16-19 (NKJV)
16 ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “If the prince gives a gift of some of his inheritance to any of his sons, it shall belong to his sons; it is their possession by inheritance. 17 But if he gives a gift of some of his inheritance to one of his servants, it shall be his until the year of liberty, after which it shall return to the prince. But his inheritance shall belong to his sons; it shall become theirs. 18 Moreover the prince shall not take any of the people’s inheritance by evicting them from their property; he shall provide an inheritance for his sons from his own property, so that none of My people may be scattered from his property.”’”
This scripture is deemed to be problematic for people who believe that Jesus is the prince because this scripture seems to say that the prince is a natural man who has flesh and blood progeny. Interestingly enough, this isn’t the only Scripture that declares that God’s chosen servant will have seed (offspring). We see this same idea in Isaiah 53:10: “When You make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days...”
So who are these sons? Who is this seed? And furthermore, who are the servants??? On the surface it may seem that this could be a reference to natural children. But in referencing the New Testament, it becomes clear that the Messiah does in fact produce children and intends to bring them back with him to rule and reign along side of him.
Romans 8:16-17 (New King James Version)
16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.
Romans 8:15 (New King James Version)
15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.”
Hebrews 2:10-13 (New King James Version)
10 For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. 11 For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12 saying:
“ I will declare Your name to My brethren;
In the midst of the assembly I will sing praise to You.”
13 And again: “ I will put My trust in Him.”
And again: “ Here am I and the children whom God has given Me.”
Revelation 20:6 (New King James Version)
6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.
So it is clear that believers in Christ have become his children. What is not clear is if a closely abiding / leadership role during the millennium will be afforded to EVERY believer in Christ – OR ONLY THOSE DEEMED MOST WORTHY based on their sufferings, good deeds and obedience in this present life. Will only a few Believers inherit land as “a son” in God’s messianic kingdom? Will others (perhaps mortals) be deemed “only servants” who can only stay in the holy area until the time of Jubilee? Certainly, this is something that remains to be seen.
Remember that John the Baptist – a prophet - declared that God could raise up sons to Abraham from the stones! (Matt 3:9) How much more are those, redeemed by the blood of Jesus considered to be His own? As our Creator he has made us. As Savior he caused us to be born again and adopted by His Spirit. Therefore, it appears that the “sons” of Ezekiel 46 and the “seed” of Isaiah 53 is a reference to the Lord’s own “offspring” – those born of his blood and his Spirit.
We already know that this prince is an eternal person. So it would be logical to conclude that the “sons” of the prince are also eternal people (those resurrected to rule and reign with Christ). Perhaps Ezekiel did not see the exact nature of the sons of the prince at the time he received his vision from God. But we do know for sure, from the rest of scripture, that those who are called, chosen and faithful will also return with Christ to receive an inheritance with Him (Rev. 3:21, Rev. 7:14). With these points in mind, remember that He is given an incredible amount of land!
Can you imagine what it will be like to live and rule with the King of Kings? This is our great hope and promise! Therefore it appears that the “sons of prince” is a prophetic reference to people like us – who will one day abide, rule and reign with Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah.
Psalm 2:7-8 (New King James Version)
7 “I will declare the decree:
The LORD has said to Me,
‘You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
8 Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
Psalm 45:16 (New King James Version)
16 Instead of Your fathers shall be Your sons,
Whom You shall make princes in all the earth.
Furthermore, Ezekiel 46:18 is not a commandment to the prince to tell him not to take people’s property way by force. It is a declaration of foreknowledge. God is letting us know that he will not do such a thing. It will not be in this prince’s nature to be like the other princes in Israel’s past. This prince will always do what is fair and just.
Psalm 45:6-7 (New King James Version)
6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever;
A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.
7 You love righteousness and hate wickedness;
Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You
With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.
Ezekiel’s prince is none other than Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah. To teach or believe that this prestigious honor will go to someone else other than him is clearly an error. Who else would be worthy to fill this position? To walk in these shoes? To receive the highest honors of the millennial age? King David is dearly loved, but not even David can take the place of the Savior and Messiah. David himself penned this powerful messianic Psalm about his future descendant and Lord:
Psalm 110 (New King James Version)
–A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD (Yahweh) said to my Lord (Adonai),
“Sit at My right hand,
Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.”
2 The LORD shall send the rod of Your strength out of Zion.
Rule in the midst of Your enemies!
3 Your people shall be volunteers
In the day of Your power;
In the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning,
You have the dew of Your youth.
4 The LORD has sworn
And will not relent,
“You are a priest forever
According to the order of Melchizedek.”
5 The Lord (Adonai) is at Your (Yahweh’s) right hand;
He shall execute kings in the day of His wrath.
6 He shall judge among the nations,
He shall fill the places with dead bodies,
He shall execute the heads of many countries.
7 He shall drink of the brook by the wayside;
Therefore He shall lift up the head.
Psalm 2:12 (New King James Version)
12 Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.
Even so, come quickly Lord Jesus!
(Rev. 22:20)
Questions & Answers
Why would a resurrected Messiah / resurrected people need to eat?
After Christ rose from the dead, we know that He appeared in His own body which was both “flesh & bone” yet also supernatural. He was able to appear and disappear at will and yet also sat down to enjoy meals with his friends (Luke 24:13-43).
Since Christ can never die again, it only makes sense that food is consumed by resurrected saints for pleasure, refreshment and fellowship – not out of physical necessity.
Why return to law and animal sacrifices?
The laws and commandments given to Israel by God were forever – until the earth passes away. However since the death and resurrection of Christ (and the subsequent destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD), God has not allowed there to be a return to temple animal sacrifices during the “Church age” (age of faith/grace). During the messianic age, however, there will be a perfect fulfillment of God’s intentions and promises for the nation of Israel under the leadership of the messiah. All prophetic scripture must be fulfilled before the heavens and earth will pass away (Matthew 24:35).
Just as the animal sacrifices demonstrated the need for blood atonement and pointed forward to the redemptive work of Christ, the return of animal sacrifices will be a constant reminder of the finished work of Christ and the holiness that God requires from His people. In Christ, the law is not set aside but is established and fulfilled. Israel’s past was a shadow of things to come (Romans 3:31, Colossians 2:16-17). Jesus paid the debt required for our sins – He did not abolish God’s holy standards. Gentiles are not required to become Jewish in order to be saved; but the commandments to Israel were never revoked.
Why is the messiah referred to as both a prince and king?
In relation to Father God, Jesus (the Son of God) is “prince” - and God is the King! (Ezekiel 43:7, Psalm 47:7, Jeremiah 10:10). In relation to the people of the earth, there is no one higher or greater – He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords (Revelation 19:16).
What will be the role of all the resurrected saints of old?
God’s redeemed will be brought back to life to enjoy life on earth as God has purposed it. His chosen ones, old and new, will return as kings and priests to rule and reign with Christ – under His authority and leadership. Each individual person will have jobs and tasks to perform based on the God-given talents and abilities they have been given – much like what is required of us in this age (Matthew 25:23)
Will regular people be able to become immortal too?
Mortals will continue to be born and die just as regular people do now (Isaiah 65:20, Ezek. 44:21-26). However, they will have the opportunity to accept the Messiah as Savior before they die. At the end of the 1,000 years everyone will be resurrected at the great judgment and those who are saved will inherit eternal life on the new earth (Rev. 20:11-15). Ultimately, all God’s family will be joined together in one place at one time. On the new earth, there will be no more pain, death or sorrow and all the redeemed will enjoy immortality in the presence of God (Revelation 21:1-8).
How can I be a part of God’s kingdom?
Repent of your sins and ask Jesus Christ into your heart as Savior and Lord. Pray, read the Bible, go to church and grow in the Lord. Live faithful and obedient to God and He will give you immortality once your life is finished here. He promises that his faithful followers will reign with Him during the millennium and forever!
For questions or comments about this study email: 4KingYeshua@gmail.com. All glory and honor to God forever and ever.
Ó2009 Truth Outreach/4KingYeshua.com. This study may be freely shared or reproduced in its entirety along with copyright notice for the purpose public and private Bible study or discussion. This study is not to be sold or resold. All scriptures quoted from NKJV unless otherwise noted. Thank you.
