Ezekiel 43:22

On the second day you are to present an unblemished male goat as a sin offering, and the altar is to be cleansed as it was with the bull.

Study Bible

On the second day
This phrase indicates a specific sequence in the ritual process, emphasizing the importance of order and structure in worship practices. The second day follows the initial consecration of the altar, highlighting the ongoing nature of purification and dedication in the temple service. This reflects the meticulous attention to detail in the Levitical laws and the importance of continual sanctification.

you are to present an unblemished male goat
The requirement for an "unblemished male goat" underscores the necessity for purity and perfection in offerings to God. In the Old Testament, animals used for sacrifices had to be without defect, symbolizing the holiness and perfection required by God. The male goat as a sin offering is significant, as goats were often used in sin offerings (Leviticus 4:23-24). This points to the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. The unblemished nature of the goat prefigures Christ, who is described as the Lamb without blemish or defect (1 Peter 1:19).

as a sin offering
The sin offering was a crucial part of the sacrificial system, designed to atone for unintentional sins and restore the relationship between the people and God. This offering highlights the gravity of sin and the need for a substitute to bear the penalty. The sin offering in Ezekiel's vision points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of humanity on the cross (Hebrews 9:26).

and the altar is to be cleansed
Cleansing the altar signifies the removal of impurity and the preparation of a holy space for worship. This act of cleansing is essential for maintaining the sanctity of the altar, which is the focal point of sacrificial worship. The cleansing process reflects the broader biblical theme of purification and the need for holiness in approaching God (Isaiah 6:5-7).

as it was with the bull
This phrase refers back to the initial consecration ritual involving a bull, as described earlier in Ezekiel 43. The bull, a larger and more valuable animal, was used for the initial purification, indicating the significance of the altar's sanctification. The repetition of the cleansing process with the goat reinforces the thoroughness required in the purification rites. This mirrors the repeated sacrifices in the Old Testament, which were ultimately fulfilled in the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 10:10).

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 regarding the temple and its rituals.

2. The Altar
Central to the temple worship, the altar is where sacrifices are made. In this context, it is being purified and consecrated for holy use.

3. The Male Goat
Represents the sin offering, a critical component of the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement and purification from sin.

4. The Temple
The envisioned temple in Ezekiel's prophecy, symbolizing God's presence among His people and the restoration of proper worship.

5. The Sin Offering
A sacrificial ritual intended to atone for sin and purify both the altar and the people, emphasizing the need for holiness.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Atonement
The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. Just as the altar required purification, so do our lives require the cleansing blood of Christ.

Holiness in Worship
The purification of the altar signifies the need for holiness in worship. Our approach to God should be marked by reverence and purity, reflecting His holiness.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points to Christ, the ultimate sin offering. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for His sacrifice and the grace we receive.

The Role of Repentance
The sin offering involved acknowledgment of sin and repentance. In our spiritual walk, regular self-examination and repentance are vital for maintaining a right relationship with God.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to be living sacrifices, dedicating our lives to God's service. This involves daily surrender and commitment to His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Ezekiel 43:22 relate to the New Testament understanding of Christ's sacrifice?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is marked by holiness and reverence, as symbolized by the purification of the altar?

3. How does the process of purification and atonement in the Old Testament inform our understanding of repentance and forgiveness today?

4. What practical steps can we take to live as "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. How can the study of Old Testament sacrificial practices enhance our appreciation for the grace and redemption offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on sin offerings, highlighting the importance of atonement and purification in the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel between Old Testament sacrifices and New Testament spiritual worship.