Ezekiel 43:21

Then you are to take away the bull for the sin offering and burn it in the appointed part of the temple area outside the sanctuary.

Study Bible

You are also to take the bull
The phrase "You are also to take the bull" indicates a specific instruction given to the priests or leaders responsible for the sacrificial rites. The bull, in ancient Israelite culture, was a significant animal used in sacrifices, symbolizing strength and atonement. The Hebrew word for bull, "par," often denotes a young bull or steer, which was considered a valuable offering. This instruction underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands in worship and the seriousness of sin that requires such a substantial offering.

for the sin offering
The "sin offering" is a critical component of the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament. The Hebrew term "chattat" refers to a sacrifice made to atone for unintentional sins, emphasizing the need for purification and reconciliation with God. This offering highlights the holiness of God and the necessity for His people to be cleansed from impurity to maintain a relationship with Him. It points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who became the perfect sin offering for humanity.

and burn it
The act to "burn it" signifies the complete consumption of the offering by fire, a process that symbolizes purification and the transformation of the offering into a pleasing aroma to the Lord. The Hebrew word "saraph" means to burn or consume, indicating the total dedication of the offering to God. This act of burning represents the removal of sin and the restoration of holiness, reminding believers of the consuming fire of God's presence that purifies and sanctifies.

in the appointed part of the temple area
The phrase "in the appointed part of the temple area" refers to a specific location designated for the burning of the sin offering. This appointed place underscores the order and structure within the temple worship, reflecting God's desire for holiness and separation from sin. The temple, as the dwelling place of God, required that all activities within its precincts be conducted according to divine instructions, ensuring that worship remained pure and acceptable.

outside the sanctuary
The instruction to perform this act "outside the sanctuary" highlights the separation between the holy and the common. The sanctuary, being the most sacred part of the temple, was reserved for the presence of God and the most holy activities. By burning the sin offering outside the sanctuary, it emphasizes the removal of sin from the presence of God, illustrating the need for cleansing before entering into His holy presence. This separation also foreshadows the sacrifice of Christ, who suffered outside the city gates, bearing the sins of the world to reconcile humanity to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book. He receives visions from God concerning the restoration of Israel and the temple.

2. The Bull for the Sin Offering
This refers to the sacrificial animal used in the sin offering, a key component of the Old Testament sacrificial system for atonement.

3. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, representing God's presence among His people. In Ezekiel's vision, it symbolizes the future restoration and purification of worship.

4. The Sanctuary
The innermost part of the temple, considered the most holy place where God's presence dwells.

5. The Appointed Part of the Temple Area
This is the designated area outside the sanctuary where the sin offering is to be burned, signifying the removal of sin from the holy place.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
The need for a sin offering underscores the gravity of sin and the necessity of atonement. Sin separates us from God, and only through sacrifice can reconciliation occur.

The Holiness of God
The requirement to burn the sin offering outside the sanctuary highlights God's holiness and the need to keep the sacred space pure. We are called to live lives that honor God's holiness.

Christ as the Ultimate Sacrifice
The Old Testament sacrificial system points to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate sin offering. His sacrifice on the cross fulfills and surpasses the need for continual offerings.

The Call to Repentance
Just as the Israelites were called to offer sacrifices for their sins, we are called to repent and turn to Christ for forgiveness and cleansing.

The Restoration of Worship
Ezekiel's vision of the temple restoration points to the future hope of perfect worship in God's presence, a reality we anticipate in the new heavens and new earth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sin offering in Ezekiel 43:21 reflect the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the burning of the sin offering outside the sanctuary illustrate the holiness of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily worship?

3. How does the sacrificial system in the Old Testament point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and what implications does this have for our faith?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship remains pure and focused on God's holiness, as illustrated by the temple practices in Ezekiel?

5. How does the vision of the restored temple in Ezekiel inspire hope for the future restoration of all things, and how can this hope influence our current walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
This chapter outlines the procedures for sin offerings, providing context for the sacrificial practices mentioned in Ezekiel 43:21.

Hebrews 13:11-12
This passage draws a parallel between the Old Testament sin offerings and Christ's sacrifice outside the city gate, emphasizing the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Jesus.

Isaiah 53
The suffering servant passage highlights the ultimate sin offering in Jesus, who bears the iniquities of many.