Ezekiel 45:17

And it shall be the prince's part to provide the burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings for the feasts, New Moons, and Sabbaths--for all the appointed feasts of the house of Israel. He will provide the sin offerings, grain offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings to make atonement for the house of Israel.

Study Bible

It will be the prince’s duty
The term "prince" in this context refers to a leader or ruler, often seen as a representative of the people before God. In Hebrew, the word used is "nasi," which can denote a leader with both political and spiritual responsibilities. This highlights the integration of governance and worship in Israel's theocratic society. The prince's duty underscores the importance of leadership in facilitating and maintaining the spiritual health of the nation, emphasizing accountability and service.

to provide the burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings
These offerings are central to the worship practices in ancient Israel. The "burnt offering" (Hebrew: "olah") signifies complete surrender to God, as the entire offering is consumed by fire. The "grain offering" (Hebrew: "minchah") represents dedication and thanksgiving, often accompanying burnt offerings. The "drink offering" (Hebrew: "nesek") is a libation poured out, symbolizing the outpouring of one's life to God. Together, these offerings illustrate a holistic approach to worship, involving both material and spiritual dedication.

for the feasts, New Moons, and Sabbaths
These occasions are significant in the Jewish calendar, marking times of communal worship and remembrance. "Feasts" (Hebrew: "chag") refer to the appointed festivals like Passover and Tabernacles, which celebrate God's historical acts of salvation. "New Moons" (Hebrew: "chodesh") mark the beginning of each month, a time for renewal and reflection. "Sabbaths" (Hebrew: "shabbat") are weekly days of rest and worship, reminding the people of God's creation and covenant. These observances foster a rhythm of life centered on God’s presence and provision.

for all the appointed feasts of the house of Israel
The phrase "appointed feasts" (Hebrew: "moed") indicates divinely ordained times for worship and celebration. These feasts are not merely cultural traditions but are seen as sacred assemblies where Israel meets with God. The "house of Israel" refers to the entire community of God's people, emphasizing collective identity and responsibility in worship. This communal aspect reinforces the unity and shared faith of the nation.

He will provide the sin offerings, grain offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings
The "sin offering" (Hebrew: "chatat") is for atonement and purification, addressing the barrier of sin between God and His people. The "peace offering" (Hebrew: "shelamim") symbolizes reconciliation and fellowship with God, often shared as a communal meal. The repetition of "grain offerings" and "burnt offerings" highlights their ongoing importance in maintaining a right relationship with God. These offerings collectively represent the multifaceted nature of worship, encompassing repentance, gratitude, dedication, and communion.

to make atonement for the house of Israel
Atonement (Hebrew: "kaphar") involves covering or cleansing from sin, restoring the relationship between God and His people. This concept is central to the sacrificial system, pointing ultimately to the work of Christ as the perfect atonement. The phrase "house of Israel" again emphasizes the corporate nature of this atonement, reminding believers of their shared need for forgiveness and redemption. This underscores the grace and mercy of God in providing a means for reconciliation and renewal.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Prince
A leader or ruler in Israel responsible for providing offerings. This figure is often seen as a type of Christ or a future Davidic ruler.

2. Burnt Offerings, Grain Offerings, Drink Offerings
Various types of sacrifices prescribed in the Mosaic Law, each with specific purposes and symbolism.

3. Feasts, New Moons, Sabbaths
Regular and special times of worship and remembrance in the Jewish calendar, each with its own significance.

4. House of Israel
Refers to the people of Israel, God's chosen nation, for whom these offerings are made.

5. Atonement
The act of making amends or reparation for sin, a central theme in the sacrificial system pointing to the ultimate atonement through Christ.

Teaching Points

Role of Leadership in Worship
The prince's duty to provide offerings highlights the responsibility of leaders to facilitate and lead in worship. Leaders today should ensure that worship is Christ-centered and biblically grounded.

Symbolism of Sacrifices
Each type of offering has a specific meaning, pointing to different aspects of Christ's work. Understanding these can deepen our appreciation for His sacrifice.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The Old Testament sacrificial system finds its fulfillment in Jesus. Believers should see the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old to the New Testament.

Atonement and Reconciliation
The concept of atonement is central to our faith. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the grace of God in providing a way for reconciliation.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to live sacrificially, offering our lives in service to God and others, reflecting the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the prince in Ezekiel 45:17 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways do the different offerings mentioned in this verse point to the work of Christ?

3. How can understanding the Jewish feasts and sacrifices enhance our appreciation of Jesus' fulfillment of the Law?

4. What does the concept of atonement in Ezekiel teach us about the nature of sin and God's provision for forgiveness?

5. How can we apply the idea of being "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Details the feasts and offerings, providing background on the types of sacrifices mentioned in Ezekiel 45:17.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of Old Testament sacrifices and the ultimate fulfillment in Christ's sacrifice.

Isaiah 53
Prophecies about the suffering servant who would make atonement for sin, connecting to the concept of atonement in Ezekiel.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the offerings in Ezekiel.

Colossians 2:16-17
Speaks of the feasts and Sabbaths as a shadow of things to come, fulfilled in Christ.