Introduction
Ezekiel 46 continues detailing the laws and ordinances regarding temple worship and offerings, emphasizing the role of the prince and the people in maintaining holy practices. This chapter provides specific regulations for worship on Sabbaths, new moons, and daily offerings, highlighting the structure and order that characterize worship in the visionary temple.
Structure and Content
Worship Regulations for the Prince and the People (Ezekiel 46:1-15)
Sabbath and New Moon Offerings
“Thus says the Lord GOD: The gate of the inner court that faces east shall be shut on the six working days, but on the Sabbath day it shall be opened, and on the day of the new moon it shall be opened” (Ezekiel 46:1). The east gate, previously noted as permanently closed, is to be opened on sacred days, allowing the prince to enter and participate in the worship and offerings, signifying his role in leading the people in their observances.
Role of the Prince in Offerings
“The prince shall enter by the vestibule of the gate from without, and shall stand by the post of the gate. The priests shall prepare his burnt offering and his peace offerings, and he shall worship at the threshold of the gate and then go out, but the gate shall not be shut until evening” (Ezekiel 46:2). Detailed instructions are given for the prince’s participation, ensuring that his role is both prominent and properly regulated to maintain the sanctity of the worship.
Daily Offerings and Festivals (Ezekiel 46:13-18)
Daily Burnt Offerings
“You shall provide a lamb a year old without blemish for a burnt offering to the LORD daily; morning by morning you shall provide it” (Ezekiel 46:13). The daily offerings underscore a continual commitment to worship and devotion, symbolizing the people’s ongoing relationship with God.
Regulations for Festivals and Voluntary Offerings
“When the prince provides a freewill offering, either a burnt offering or peace offerings as a freewill offering to the LORD, the gate facing east shall be opened for him, and he shall provide his burnt offering and his peace offerings as he does on the Sabbath day. Then he shall go out, and after he has gone out the gate shall be shut” (Ezekiel 46:12). Flexibility for additional offerings highlights the personal devotion of the prince and the people, reflecting a deeper voluntary engagement with the worship practices.
Connections to New Testament Teachings
Connection to Jesus Christ
Ezekiel’s emphasis on orderly and continual offerings points forward to Jesus Christ, whose once-for-all sacrifice on the cross fulfills all requirements of the Law. Jesus establishes a new form of worship based on spirit and truth (John 4:24), transcending the physical temple and its rituals.
God’s Love for the World
The structured worship practices in Ezekiel 46 demonstrate God’s desire for His people to live in a rhythm of regular worship and reflection, which is an expression of His love. This structure aims to keep the people close to Him, fostering a continual reminder of His presence, provision, and holiness.
Why the Bible Chapter Still Matters Today
Importance of Consistent Devotion
The call for daily offerings and special observance on Sabbaths and new moons serves as a reminder of the importance of consistent and regular devotion in the life of a believer, fostering a deep and continuous connection with God.
Role of Leadership in Worship
The detailed instructions for the prince’s participation in worship provide a model for leaders in the Christian community today, emphasizing the importance of leading by example in worship and devotion.
Reverence and Order in Worship
Ezekiel 46 highlights the importance of reverence and order in worship practices. This principle guides contemporary Christian worship, encouraging a respectful and thoughtful approach to worship that honors God’s holiness.
In conclusion, Ezekiel 46 not only outlines the liturgical calendar and offerings for the new temple but also provides enduring lessons on leadership, consistent devotion, and the structured approach to worship that can deepen believers’ relationship with God, fully realized in the worship established by Jesus Christ.