Ezekiel 43:18 – “Then he said to me, ‘Son of man, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: These will be the regulations for sacrificing burnt offerings and splashing blood against the altar when it is built.'”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Ezekiel 43:18, God speaks directly to Ezekiel, outlining the regulations for sacrifices on the newly described altar. The phrase “when it is built” points to a future time of restoration when worship will be reestablished. The mention of burnt offerings and the splashing of blood emphasizes the sacrificial system that was central to the Israelites’ relationship with God. These offerings were a way to atone for sin, express devotion, and renew the covenant between God and His people.
This verse introduces a set of instructions that demonstrate God’s care for proper worship. It shows that approaching God is a sacred act that must align with His holiness and standards. The sacrificial system is not merely ritualistic; it’s deeply symbolic of humanity’s need for forgiveness and God’s provision for atonement.
Historical Context
At the time of Ezekiel’s vision, the Israelites were in exile in Babylon, and the temple in Jerusalem had been destroyed. This meant that the sacrificial system, which had been central to their worship and relationship with God, was no longer functioning. The destruction of the altar symbolized a broken connection between the people and God due to their rebellion and sin.
Ezekiel’s vision of the new temple and altar provided hope for the future. It reminded the people that God had not abandoned them and that He would restore both their worship and their covenant relationship. The mention of specific regulations underscored the importance of worshiping God in the way He had commanded, reflecting His holiness.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several key theological themes:
- The Holiness of God: Sacrifices and offerings must align with God’s standards, reflecting His holiness and the seriousness of approaching Him.
- The Need for Atonement: The splashing of blood on the altar symbolizes the need for the shedding of blood to cover sin (Leviticus 17:11).
- Restoration: The reestablishment of sacrifices points to God’s commitment to restoring His relationship with His people.
It also teaches that worship is not about human invention but must follow God’s instructions, demonstrating reverence and obedience.
Literary Analysis
Ezekiel 43:18 begins with God addressing Ezekiel as “Son of man,” a title that underscores Ezekiel’s humanity and his role as a messenger for divine revelation. The verse shifts from the description of the altar to its function, emphasizing the importance of proper worship. The specificity of the instructions reflects God’s meticulous care for how He is to be approached.
The use of sacrificial imagery, such as “burnt offerings” and “splashing blood,” ties the physical act of sacrifice to its spiritual significance, pointing to atonement and renewal.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 29:38-39: Daily burnt offerings were commanded as a continual act of worship and atonement.
- Leviticus 17:11: The life of a creature is in the blood, which is given for atonement on the altar.
- Isaiah 1:11-18: God emphasizes the heart behind sacrifices, not just the ritual itself.
- Hebrews 9:22: Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins.
- Romans 12:1: Believers are called to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, Ezekiel 43:18 is a reminder of the seriousness of approaching God in worship. While the physical altar and sacrificial system are no longer central to worship, the principles behind them remain vital. This verse challenges believers to reflect on the cost of sin and the holiness of God.
It also points to the importance of obedience in worship. True worship aligns with God’s Word and seeks to honor Him in spirit and truth.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
The fact that God provides specific regulations for sacrifices reveals His love and desire to dwell among His people. He doesn’t leave humanity to figure out how to approach Him but gives clear instructions to make reconciliation possible. The sacrificial system, though rigorous, was an act of grace, providing a way for sinful people to be in relationship with a holy God.
God’s love is seen in His commitment to restoring worship and offering a path to forgiveness and renewal.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Ezekiel 43:18 points directly to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system. In the Old Testament, burnt offerings and the shedding of blood were temporary measures to atone for sin. In the New Testament, Jesus becomes the perfect and final sacrifice, offering Himself on the cross to fully and permanently atone for sin (Hebrews 10:10-14).
The instructions for sacrifices in this verse foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who made it possible for humanity to approach God without fear, through faith in His finished work.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge your understanding of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?
- What does this verse teach about the holiness of God and the importance of worshiping Him as He commands?
- How does Jesus fulfill the purpose of the sacrifices described in Ezekiel’s vision?
- In what ways can you offer your life as a “living sacrifice” to God today?
- How can understanding the sacrificial system deepen your gratitude for Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice?