Ezekiel 43:19

You are to give a young bull from the herd as a sin offering to the Levitical priests who are of the family of Zadok, who approach Me to minister before Me, declares the Lord GOD.

Study Bible

You are to give
This phrase indicates a direct command from God, emphasizing the importance of obedience in worship. The Hebrew root for "give" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to bestow or grant. This act of giving is not merely a transaction but a sacred duty, reflecting the covenant relationship between God and His people. It underscores the principle that worship involves offering something of value to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and holiness.

a young bull
The young bull, or "פַּר" (par) in Hebrew, is significant as it represents strength and vitality. In ancient Israelite culture, the bull was a valuable asset, symbolizing wealth and power. Offering a young bull as a sacrifice signifies giving God the best and most valuable, demonstrating the seriousness of atonement and the costliness of sin. This act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who gave Himself as the perfect offering for sin.

as a sin offering
The term "sin offering" comes from the Hebrew "חַטָּאת" (chatta'ath), which refers to a sacrifice made to atone for sin. This offering is crucial in the sacrificial system, highlighting the need for purification and reconciliation with God. It points to the gravity of sin and the necessity of shedding blood for atonement, a theme that culminates in the New Testament with the sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

to the Levitical priests
The Levitical priests, descendants of Levi, were set apart for temple service. The Hebrew root "לֵוִי" (Levi) means "joined" or "attached," signifying their unique role in being joined to God’s service. This phrase underscores the importance of ordained ministry and the responsibility of spiritual leaders to mediate between God and His people, a role fulfilled perfectly by Christ, our High Priest.

of the family of Zadok
Zadok was a faithful priest during the reigns of David and Solomon. The name "צָדוֹק" (Tzadok) means "righteous" or "just," reflecting the character required of those who serve God. The mention of Zadok’s family highlights the continuity of faithful service and the importance of maintaining purity and righteousness in worship. It serves as a reminder of the legacy of faithfulness expected from God’s servants.

who approach Me
This phrase emphasizes the privilege and responsibility of drawing near to God. The Hebrew "קָרַב" (qarab) means to come near or approach, indicating the intimacy and reverence required in worship. It reflects the holiness of God and the need for those who serve Him to be consecrated and pure, a theme echoed in the New Testament call for believers to draw near to God with a sincere heart.

to minister before Me
The act of ministering, from the Hebrew "שָׁרַת" (sharat), means to serve or attend. This service is not just a duty but an act of worship, performed in the presence of God. It highlights the honor and responsibility of serving in God’s presence, a calling that requires dedication and holiness. This service is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who ministers eternally before the Father on our behalf.

declares the Lord GOD
This declaration, "נְאֻם אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (ne'um Adonai Yahweh), asserts the authority and sovereignty of God. It is a divine proclamation that underscores the certainty and seriousness of His commands. The use of both "Adonai" (Lord) and "Yahweh" (GOD) emphasizes His lordship and covenant faithfulness. It serves as a reminder that God’s words are true and His promises sure, calling His people to trust and obey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and the one receiving God's instructions.

2. Levitical Priests
Descendants of Levi, tasked with temple duties and sacrifices. In this context, they are the ones performing the sin offering.

3. Family of Zadok
A specific lineage within the Levitical priesthood, chosen for their faithfulness to God during times of apostasy.

4. Sin Offering
A sacrificial offering made to atone for sin, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God.

5. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, representing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Service
The family of Zadok is chosen for their unwavering faithfulness. Believers are called to serve God with integrity and dedication.

The Role of Sacrifice
The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. Jesus' sacrifice fulfills this need once and for all.

Priestly Duties
As believers, we are called to be a royal priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices and interceding for others.

God's Holiness
The detailed instructions for the sin offering reflect God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The Old Testament sacrificial system points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, encouraging believers to live in the light of His finished work.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities did the family of Zadok exhibit that led to their selection for priestly duties, and how can we apply these qualities in our own service to God?

2. How does the concept of a sin offering in Ezekiel 43:19 relate to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

3. In what ways are believers today called to function as a "royal priesthood," and how can we fulfill this role in our daily lives?

4. How does understanding the holiness of God, as reflected in the sacrificial system, impact our approach to worship and prayer?

5. What lessons can we learn from the continuity between the Old Testament sacrificial system and its fulfillment in Christ, and how does this shape our understanding of redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on sin offerings, highlighting the importance of atonement and purification.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system through Jesus Christ, the perfect and final sin offering.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the priestly duties to the New Testament church.

2 Samuel 15:24-29
Highlights the faithfulness of Zadok and his descendants, establishing their role in the priesthood.

Hebrews 7:11-28
Explores the priesthood of Jesus, contrasting it with the Levitical priesthood and emphasizing His eternal priesthood.