2 moral requirements of Leaders

Read Ezekiel 45.

What a future is in store for the nation of Israel!  Under a new covenant and a restored relationship with God, the Jews will worship at a new Temple in Jerusalem.  During this Millennial reign of Christ on earth, land will be designated for the priests.  The area will be approximately 8 1/2 miles by 6 1/2 miles.  Here they will live and serve.

Turning from spiritual service, this chapter addresses civic leadership also.  Two issues are raised.

1. God demands honesty. (vv.7-12)
The governmental leaders, the princes, are scolded for oppressing the people, instead of serving them.  They abused their power and authority in using violence to rule.  They abused their position for personal gain through dishonest dealings.    The LORD requires honest business transactions and accounting by using exact weights and measures.

2. God demands purity. (vv.21-22)
David, the prince (see chapter 34), will have a special role in this new earthly kingdom.  He will join with the people in presenting offerings for his own sin.  

Those types of character and moral requirements are not just for leaders.  Being right with God and treating others rightly is expected of everyone.  "Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God?  Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

The good news of personally knowing Jesus is that the text does not end there with condemnation.  When one places their eternal faith in Him, life-change takes place.  "But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of God." (1 Corinthians 6:11)