Ezekiel 46:14 – “You are also to provide with it morning by morning a grain offering, consisting of a sixth of an ephah with a third of a hin of olive oil to moisten the flour. The presenting of this grain offering to the Lord is a lasting ordinance.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Ezekiel 46:14 describes a daily grain offering that accompanies the morning sacrifice of the lamb. The offering includes a specific amount of grain mixed with olive oil to create a pleasing and fragrant offering to the Lord. This act of worship is described as a “lasting ordinance,” signifying its importance and continual nature. The grain and oil symbolize thanksgiving and dedication, showing that worship includes acknowledging God’s provision and responding with gratitude and obedience.

Historical Context

During Israel’s history, grain offerings were an integral part of temple worship, first instituted in the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 2). These offerings were made from the harvest’s first fruits, reflecting trust in God’s provision. Ezekiel’s vision of the temple was given during the Babylonian exile, a time when Israel could no longer offer sacrifices in the destroyed temple. This vision gave hope for a restored worship system and reminded the people of their covenant relationship with God. The specific instructions about the grain offering underscored the central role of daily, intentional worship.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights the importance of regular, intentional worship as part of a believer’s relationship with God. The grain and oil, essential elements of daily life, symbolize dependence on God for both physical and spiritual sustenance. The “lasting ordinance” emphasizes the unchanging nature of God’s call to worship and honor Him continually. It also reminds believers that worship is not just about grand gestures but includes daily acts of devotion and gratitude.

Literary Analysis

Ezekiel 46:14 uses specific measurements—“a sixth of an ephah” and “a third of a hin”—to emphasize the order and intentionality required in worship. The phrase “morning by morning” reinforces the idea of consistency and faithfulness in offering worship to God. The language is straightforward but rich in meaning, linking physical acts of worship to spiritual truths about God’s provision and faithfulness.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Leviticus 2:1-3: Instructions for grain offerings and their significance.
• Exodus 29:38-42: The daily offering of sacrifices in the tabernacle.
• Lamentations 3:22-23: God’s mercies are new every morning, reflecting His faithfulness.
• Matthew 6:11: A prayer for daily bread, acknowledging dependence on God’s provision.
• Romans 12:1: Presenting our bodies as living sacrifices as a spiritual act of worship.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians, Ezekiel 46:14 serves as a reminder that worship is an everyday practice, not just a Sunday activity. The offering of grain and oil symbolizes the need to dedicate even the ordinary aspects of life to God. This verse challenges believers to start each day by acknowledging God’s presence and provision and by offering gratitude and commitment to Him. It emphasizes the importance of consistency and faithfulness in maintaining a relationship with God.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love by reminding His people to depend on Him daily. The provision of grain and oil symbolizes God’s care for their physical and spiritual needs, while the repeated nature of the offering highlights His ongoing faithfulness. By establishing a lasting ordinance, God shows His desire for a continuous relationship with His people, built on trust and gratitude.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus fulfills the grain offering as the “bread of life” (John 6:35), providing spiritual sustenance for believers. The olive oil, often associated with anointing and the Holy Spirit, points to the richness and abundance of life found in Christ. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross replaced the need for daily offerings, yet His life calls believers to daily devotion and gratitude. Through Him, worship is no longer confined to rituals but becomes a continual expression of love and thanksgiving (Hebrews 10:10).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How can you make daily worship a consistent part of your life?
2. What does the symbolism of grain and oil teach you about offering the ordinary aspects of your life to God?
3. How does Jesus as the bread of life provide spiritual sustenance for your daily walk?
4. In what ways can you show gratitude to God for His provision each day?
5. How can starting your day with worship and thanksgiving shape your attitude and actions throughout the day?