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

Then you are to take away the bull for the sin offering
This phrase refers to the specific instructions given to Ezekiel regarding the sin offering, a critical component of the sacrificial system in ancient Israel. The bull as a sin offering signifies atonement for sin, a practice rooted in Levitical law (Leviticus 4:3-12). The sin offering was essential for purification and reconciliation with God, symbolizing the removal of sin and guilt. This act prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

and burn it in the appointed part of the temple area
The burning of the sin offering in a designated area underscores the importance of following divine instructions precisely. This appointed area was likely outside the main sanctuary to maintain the holiness of the temple, as the sin offering was considered most holy (Leviticus 6:25-30). The act of burning signifies the complete consumption and removal of sin, pointing to the totality of Christ's atonement on the cross.

outside the sanctuary
This detail highlights the separation between the holy and the common, a recurring theme in the Old Testament. The sanctuary, being the most sacred part of the temple, was reserved for God's presence and the most holy activities. By burning the sin offering outside the sanctuary, it emphasizes the need for purification before entering God's presence. This separation also foreshadows the crucifixion of Jesus outside the city walls of Jerusalem (Hebrews 13:11-12), symbolizing the bearing of sin and shame on behalf of humanity.

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.