Ezekiel 43:22

On the second day you are to present an unblemished male goat as a sin offering, and the altar is to be cleansed as it was with the bull.

Study Bible

On the second day
This phrase marks a continuation of a sequence of events, indicating the importance of order and process in the rituals described. In the Hebrew context, the concept of time is often linked with divine order and purpose. The second day signifies progression and the unfolding of God's plan for purification and consecration. It reminds us of the creation narrative, where each day had a specific purpose, reflecting God's meticulous design.

you are to offer
The act of offering is central to the worship practices in the Old Testament. The Hebrew root for "offer" is "qarab," which means to bring near or present. This act symbolizes drawing near to God, an essential aspect of worship and reconciliation. Offering is not merely a ritualistic act but a heartfelt gesture of devotion and obedience, acknowledging God's sovereignty and holiness.

a male goat
The male goat, or "sa'ir" in Hebrew, is often associated with sin offerings. In the ancient Near Eastern context, goats were common sacrificial animals, symbolizing the removal of sin and impurity. The choice of a male goat underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.

without blemish
This phrase emphasizes the requirement for purity and perfection in offerings to God. The Hebrew word "tamim" means complete or whole, signifying that God deserves the best and most perfect offerings. This requirement foreshadows the sinless nature of Christ, the perfect sacrifice who fulfilled the law's demands for holiness and purity.

for a sin offering
The sin offering, or "chatat" in Hebrew, is a crucial element of the sacrificial system, designed to atone for unintentional sins and restore the relationship between God and His people. It highlights the gravity of sin and the necessity of atonement. This offering points forward to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, who bore our sins on the cross, providing eternal redemption.

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 regarding the temple and its rituals.

2. The Altar
Central to the temple worship, the altar is where sacrifices are made. In this context, it is being purified and consecrated for holy use.

3. The Male Goat
Represents the sin offering, a critical component of the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement and purification from sin.

4. The Temple
The envisioned temple in Ezekiel's prophecy, symbolizing God's presence among His people and the restoration of proper worship.

5. The Sin Offering
A sacrificial ritual intended to atone for sin and purify both the altar and the people, emphasizing the need for holiness.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Atonement
The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. Just as the altar required purification, so do our lives require the cleansing blood of Christ.

Holiness in Worship
The purification of the altar signifies the need for holiness in worship. Our approach to God should be marked by reverence and purity, reflecting His holiness.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points to Christ, the ultimate sin offering. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for His sacrifice and the grace we receive.

The Role of Repentance
The sin offering involved acknowledgment of sin and repentance. In our spiritual walk, regular self-examination and repentance are vital for maintaining a right relationship with God.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to be living sacrifices, dedicating our lives to God's service. This involves daily surrender and commitment to His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Ezekiel 43:22 relate to the New Testament understanding of Christ's sacrifice?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is marked by holiness and reverence, as symbolized by the purification of the altar?

3. How does the process of purification and atonement in the Old Testament inform our understanding of repentance and forgiveness today?

4. What practical steps can we take to live as "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. How can the study of Old Testament sacrificial practices enhance our appreciation for the grace and redemption offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on sin offerings, highlighting the importance of atonement and purification in the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel between Old Testament sacrifices and New Testament spiritual worship.