Ezekiel 43:24

You must present them before the LORD; the priests are to sprinkle salt on them and sacrifice them as a burnt offering to the LORD.

Study Bible

You are to present them before the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the act of bringing offerings into the presence of God. In Hebrew, the word for "present" is "qarab," which means to draw near or approach. This act signifies the worshiper's intention to come close to God, acknowledging His holiness and sovereignty. Historically, presenting offerings was a central part of Israelite worship, symbolizing dedication and submission to God's will. The phrase underscores the importance of intentionality in worship, reminding believers that approaching God requires reverence and a heart prepared to honor Him.

the priests are to sprinkle salt on them
The use of salt in offerings is significant. In Hebrew, "salt" is "melach," and it was a symbol of purity, preservation, and covenant. Salt was used in ancient Near Eastern cultures as a preservative, which aligns with its symbolic meaning of enduring covenants. In Leviticus 2:13, salt is described as the "salt of the covenant," indicating its role in maintaining the perpetual nature of God's promises. For believers, this act of sprinkling salt serves as a reminder of the enduring and purifying nature of God's covenant with His people, calling them to live lives that reflect His holiness.

and offer them as a burnt offering to the LORD
The term "burnt offering" in Hebrew is "olah," which means "that which goes up" or "ascent." This offering was entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing complete surrender and dedication to God. The burnt offering was a voluntary act of worship, expressing atonement, devotion, and commitment. Historically, it was one of the most common offerings in the Israelite sacrificial system, representing the worshiper's desire to be in right standing with God. For contemporary believers, this phrase encourages a life of total dedication and surrender to God, where one's actions and heart are wholly given over to His service and glory.

to the LORD
The phrase "to the LORD" is central to understanding the purpose and direction of the offering. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the personal name of God, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. This name is a reminder of God's covenant relationship with Israel, highlighting His faithfulness and unchanging character. Offering sacrifices "to the LORD" signifies that worship is directed solely to Him, acknowledging His rightful place as the object of worship and devotion. For believers, this phrase serves as a call to ensure that all acts of worship and service are directed to God alone, recognizing His supreme authority and love.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and the one receiving the vision of the new temple.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, to whom the offerings are presented.

3. Priests
The Levitical priests who are responsible for performing the temple rituals and offerings.

4. Salt
A symbol of purity, preservation, and covenant, used in the offerings.

5. Burnt Offering
A type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that signifies atonement and complete surrender to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of Sacrifice
Sacrifices in the Old Testament were a means of atonement and worship. Today, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, dedicating our lives to God’s service.

Symbolism of Salt
Salt represents purity and covenant. As Christians, we are called to live pure lives and uphold our covenant relationship with God.

Priestly Duties
The priests' role in offering sacrifices points to our role as a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), tasked with spiritual sacrifices and intercession.

God’s Holiness
The meticulous instructions for offerings underscore God’s holiness and the reverence required in approaching Him.

Covenant Faithfulness
The use of salt in offerings reminds us of God’s enduring covenant with His people and our responsibility to remain faithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of salt in offerings relate to Jesus' teaching about being the "salt of the earth"?

2. In what ways can we present ourselves as living sacrifices in our daily lives?

3. What does the role of the priests in Ezekiel 43:24 teach us about our responsibilities as part of the "royal priesthood"?

4. How does understanding the symbolism of the burnt offering enhance our appreciation of Christ’s sacrifice?

5. How can we ensure that our worship and service to God reflect His holiness and our covenant relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 2:13
This verse discusses the use of salt in grain offerings, emphasizing its role in the covenant.

Matthew 5:13
Jesus refers to His followers as the "salt of the earth," highlighting the importance of purity and influence.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the concept of burnt offerings as total dedication to God.