How can we apply the concept of atonement from Ezekiel 43:26 today? Context of Ezekiel 43:26 “For seven days they shall make atonement for the altar and cleanse it; so they shall consecrate it.” (Ezekiel 43:26) What Atonement Signified in Ezekiel’s Day • The altar was the meeting point between a holy God and sinful people. • Blood sacrifices “covered” (literally, made atonement for) impurity so worship could continue (Leviticus 17:11). • Seven days of consecration underscored completeness and total dedication. Christ—The Ultimate Fulfillment • “He Himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the whole world.” (1 John 2:2) • “We have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” (Hebrews 10:10) • The cross permanently accomplished what seven days of animal blood symbolized—perfect, finished cleansing. Personal Application: Living Under Christ’s Atonement • Rest in completed forgiveness—stop striving to earn what Christ already secured (Romans 5:1). • Practice daily confession; appropriate the cleansing continually offered (1 John 1:9). • Consecrate everyday life—work, relationships, entertainment—because you are now God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). • Cultivate gratitude-driven obedience; holiness flows from gratitude, not guilt (Titus 2:11-14). Corporate Application: The Church as a Consecrated Altar • Preach and sing the gospel often; remind one another of the once-for-all sacrifice (Colossians 3:16). • Engage in Communion thoughtfully—“For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26). • Guard purity in leadership and membership; church discipline protects the witness of Christ’s atoning work (Matthew 18:15-17). • Serve the community sacrificially; a cleansed people become a living display of God’s mercy (Romans 12:1). Daily Practices to Keep the Truth Fresh • Begin mornings by thanking Jesus for His blood that “cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). • Read a gospel passage regularly to keep the cross central. • Memorize key atonement verses (e.g., Isaiah 53:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21). • Share the message—atonement is not only for personal peace but for evangelistic proclamation. Looking Ahead • The vision points to a future where God’s dwelling is fully with His people (Revelation 21:3). • Until that day, we live consecrated lives, confident that the finished atonement guarantees our eternal fellowship with Him. |
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