Jerusalem And Shiloh

Q

When it comes to the future Temple (Ezekiel’s Temple), and the location where it will reside, I agree with all that you have put forth in your material (the coming temple). However, I was reading Zechariah 14:17, which says, “And it will be that whichever of the families of the earth does not go up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, there will be no rain on them.” Now, doesn’t the act of worship require the Temple? Or, can one worship in the Millennium in Jerusalem while the actual sacrifices and Temple activities can be north in Shiloh?

A

Keep in mind, the topography of the area is going to change when the Lord returns. Currently Shiloh is about 20 miles north of Jerusalem. But when the Lord comes back, the Mt. of Olives will split in two with half moving north and half moving south (Zech. 14:4). Jerusalem will be raised up (Zech. 14:10) This will permit a great river to flow south from under the Temple to Jerusalem where it will divide. Half will flow to the Mediterranean Sea and half will flow to the Dead Sea (Zech. 14:8). When all is said and done, Jerusalem will be the closest urban area to the Temple precincts. It will still be the capital of Israel and the center of Jewish life, second only to the new Holy City.