Ezekiel 40:39

Inside the portico of the gateway were two tables on each side, on which the burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings were to be slaughtered.

Study Bible

Inside the portico of the gateway
The portico, or porch, of the gateway refers to the entrance area of the temple complex described in Ezekiel's vision. This vision is part of a larger prophetic revelation given to Ezekiel concerning a future temple. The gateway signifies a place of transition from the outer courts to the inner sacred areas, symbolizing the movement from the secular to the holy. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, gateways often served as places of judgment or decision, reflecting the spiritual significance of entering God's presence.

were two tables on each side
The presence of tables on each side of the gateway indicates preparation and order in the sacrificial system. These tables were likely made of stone, as suggested by archaeological findings of similar structures in ancient temples. The number two may symbolize witness or testimony, as seen in other biblical contexts where two witnesses establish a matter (Deuteronomy 19:15). The tables' placement on each side suggests symmetry and balance, reflecting the orderliness of God's design.

on which the burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings
These offerings were central to the sacrificial system in the Old Testament, each serving a distinct purpose. Burnt offerings were entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God (Leviticus 1). Sin offerings were made for unintentional sins, emphasizing atonement and purification (Leviticus 4). Guilt offerings, or trespass offerings, addressed specific transgressions and required restitution (Leviticus 5). Together, these offerings highlight the comprehensive nature of atonement and reconciliation with God.

were to be slaughtered
The act of slaughtering the offerings was a critical component of the sacrificial process, signifying the seriousness of sin and the need for a substitute. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was "slain from the foundation of the world" (Revelation 13:8) and fulfilled the sacrificial system by offering Himself once for all (Hebrews 10:10). The meticulous instructions for these sacrifices underscore the holiness required to approach God and the provision He made for His people's redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, who received visions from God, including the vision of the new temple.

2. The Temple
The vision of a future temple given to Ezekiel, symbolizing God's presence and the restoration of Israel.

3. The Portico of the Gateway
A specific area in the temple vision where offerings were prepared, indicating a place of transition and preparation for worship.

4. Burnt Offerings, Sin Offerings, and Guilt Offerings
Types of sacrifices in the Old Testament law, each with specific purposes for atonement and worship.

5. The Tables
Physical structures used for the preparation of sacrifices, symbolizing the order and provision for worship in the temple.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Sacrifice
The presence of tables for offerings in the temple vision underscores the centrality of sacrifice in worship and atonement. In the New Covenant, Jesus is our ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the need for continual offerings.

Order in Worship
The detailed description of the temple and its furnishings highlights the importance of order and preparation in worship. Our worship today should also be approached with reverence and intentionality.

God's Provision for Atonement
The specific mention of different types of offerings shows God's provision for various aspects of sin and guilt. This points to the comprehensive nature of Christ's atonement for us.

Symbolism of the Temple
The temple vision symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. As believers, we are called to be a living temple, reflecting His presence in our lives.

Restoration and Hope
Ezekiel's vision of the temple was given during a time of exile, offering hope for restoration. Similarly, we can find hope in God's promises for our future restoration and redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the different types of offerings mentioned in Ezekiel 40:39 reflect the various aspects of atonement and worship in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel provide hope and encouragement for believers today?

3. How can we apply the principles of order and preparation in worship from Ezekiel's temple vision to our personal and corporate worship experiences?

4. How does the fulfillment of the sacrificial system through Jesus Christ impact our understanding of the offerings described in Ezekiel 40:39?

5. What does it mean for us to be the temple of God today, and how can we live out this reality in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1-7
These chapters detail the laws concerning burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings, providing context for their significance in Ezekiel's vision.

Hebrews 10
This chapter discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system through Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrifices to the New Covenant.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the spiritual significance of the temple in Ezekiel's vision.