Ezekiel 45:15 – “Also one sheep is to be taken from every flock of two hundred from the well-watered pastures of Israel. These will be used for the grain offerings, burnt offerings and fellowship offerings to make atonement for the people, declares the Sovereign Lord.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
Ezekiel 45:15 describes an offering system in which one sheep from every flock of two hundred is set apart for worship. This offering is intended for grain, burnt, and fellowship offerings, all of which play a role in Israel’s worship and atonement practices. The sheep symbolize the people’s acknowledgment that their flocks and blessings come from God. By contributing this portion, the Israelites participate in worship and reaffirm their covenant relationship with God. The phrase “to make atonement for the people” reflects the sacrificial system’s purpose—to address sin and restore fellowship with God.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, sheep were a valuable resource, providing food, wool, and offerings for worship. The sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law required animals to be offered to atone for sins and maintain fellowship with God. This verse is part of Ezekiel’s vision for a restored temple and community life after the Babylonian exile. The specific instruction to give one sheep out of two hundred reflects God’s balance of fairness and devotion, ensuring that worship is meaningful yet accessible to all.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the idea that worship involves giving back to God from what He has provided. It reflects God’s holiness and the need for atonement to maintain a right relationship with Him. The offering system highlights the seriousness of sin and the cost of reconciliation with God. At the same time, it demonstrates God’s grace in providing a way for His people to approach Him and restore fellowship through worship and sacrifice.
Literary Analysis
Ezekiel 45:15 is part of a detailed passage outlining offerings and regulations for restored worship. The specificity of the instruction—one sheep out of two hundred—emphasizes God’s precision and fairness. The mention of various offerings (grain, burnt, and fellowship) reinforces the comprehensive nature of worship, addressing both the people’s relationship with God and their communal harmony. The phrase “declares the Sovereign Lord” adds authority to the command, reminding readers of God’s ultimate rule.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 4:20: Describes the role of offerings in making atonement for the people’s sins.
- Leviticus 7:11-15: Explains the purpose of fellowship offerings as a celebration of peace with God.
- Isaiah 53:7: Refers to the suffering servant (a prophecy of Jesus) as a lamb led to the slaughter for the atonement of sins.
- John 1:29: John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, Ezekiel 45:15 is a reminder of the importance of offering our resources, time, and worship to God. It challenges believers to acknowledge that all they have comes from Him and to honor Him with their blessings. The sacrificial system, while no longer required, points to the need for atonement, which Jesus fulfilled once and for all. This verse encourages Christians to reflect on the cost of their salvation and to live lives of gratitude and worship.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love by providing a way for His people to address their sin and maintain fellowship with Him. The sacrificial system, while requiring the offering of valuable resources, demonstrates God’s desire for reconciliation rather than judgment. By instituting a fair and manageable system, God ensures that everyone can participate in worship and experience His grace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Ezekiel 45:15 points directly to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system. While the sheep in this verse were offered to atone for sin temporarily, Jesus, as the Lamb of God, made a once-and-for-all sacrifice for the sins of the world (Hebrews 10:10). His sacrifice eliminates the need for ongoing animal offerings and opens the way for all believers to have a direct and eternal relationship with God. Jesus also embodies the peace and fellowship symbolized by the offerings mentioned in this verse.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you honor God with the resources and blessings He has provided?
- What does this verse teach you about the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?
- How does Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice deepen your understanding of God’s grace and love?
- Are there ways you can reflect gratitude and worship through your daily actions?
- How does the concept of giving back to God challenge you to trust Him more fully with your life?
Ezekiel 45:15 reminds Christians of the cost of worship and the grace of God in providing a way to approach Him. It calls us to live in gratitude for Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and to honor Him with our lives and resources.