Ezekiel 43:19

You are to give a young bull from the herd as a sin offering to the Levitical priests who are of the family of Zadok, who approach Me to minister before Me, declares the Lord GOD.

Study Bible

You are to give a young bull from the herd as a sin offering
In the Old Testament, a young bull was often used as a sin offering, symbolizing atonement and purification. The bull, being a valuable and strong animal, represented a significant sacrifice, indicating the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God. This offering is part of the sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law, which foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of all sin offerings (Hebrews 10:10).

to the Levitical priests
The Levitical priests were descendants of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, specifically chosen to perform the duties of the priesthood. They were responsible for the rituals and sacrifices in the temple, acting as mediators between God and the people. This priestly role is a precursor to the priesthood of all believers in Christ (1 Peter 2:9).

who are of the family of Zadok
Zadok was a priest during the time of King David and King Solomon, known for his faithfulness and loyalty. The family of Zadok was chosen to continue the priestly line due to their steadfastness, especially during times of apostasy. This lineage is significant as it represents a faithful remnant, a theme that runs throughout Scripture, highlighting God's preservation of a faithful people (Ezekiel 44:15).

who approach Me to minister before Me
The phrase emphasizes the role of the priests as those who draw near to God on behalf of the people. Approaching God required holiness and obedience, as the priests were to be set apart for sacred duties. This concept of drawing near to God is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus, our High Priest, who grants believers access to God (Hebrews 4:16).

declares the Lord GOD
This declaration underscores the authority and sovereignty of God in establishing the rules and regulations for worship and sacrifice. It is a reminder that the instructions given are not merely human traditions but divine commands. The phrase "declares the Lord GOD" is a common prophetic formula, affirming the authenticity and seriousness of the message.

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.

2. Levitical Priests
Descendants of Levi, tasked with temple duties and sacrifices. In this context, they are the ones performing the sin offering.

3. Family of Zadok
A specific lineage within the Levitical priesthood, chosen for their faithfulness to God during times of apostasy.

4. Sin Offering
A sacrificial offering made to atone for sin, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God.

5. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, representing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Service
The family of Zadok is chosen for their unwavering faithfulness. Believers are called to serve God with integrity and dedication.

The Role of Sacrifice
The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. Jesus' sacrifice fulfills this need once and for all.

Priestly Duties
As believers, we are called to be a royal priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices and interceding for others.

God's Holiness
The detailed instructions for the sin offering reflect God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The Old Testament sacrificial system points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, encouraging believers to live in the light of His finished work.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities did the family of Zadok exhibit that led to their selection for priestly duties, and how can we apply these qualities in our own service to God?

2. How does the concept of a sin offering in Ezekiel 43:19 relate to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

3. In what ways are believers today called to function as a "royal priesthood," and how can we fulfill this role in our daily lives?

4. How does understanding the holiness of God, as reflected in the sacrificial system, impact our approach to worship and prayer?

5. What lessons can we learn from the continuity between the Old Testament sacrificial system and its fulfillment in Christ, and how does this shape our understanding of redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on sin offerings, highlighting the importance of atonement and purification.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system through Jesus Christ, the perfect and final sin offering.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the priestly duties to the New Testament church.

2 Samuel 15:24-29
Highlights the faithfulness of Zadok and his descendants, establishing their role in the priesthood.

Hebrews 7:11-28
Explores the priesthood of Jesus, contrasting it with the Levitical priesthood and emphasizing His eternal priesthood.