How can we apply the concept of atonement in Ezekiel 45:20 today? Setting the Verse in View “ ‘You shall do the same on the seventh day of the month for anyone who sins unintentionally or through ignorance. So you shall make atonement for the temple.’ ” (Ezekiel 45:20) What Ezekiel 45:20 Teaches About Atonement • Atonement covers even sins “unintentionally or through ignorance,” highlighting God’s concern for every stain of sin, not only blatant rebellion. • It is proactive and scheduled—Israel wasn’t left to guess if sin was dealt with; God provided an ordered, reliable remedy. • The focus is corporate as well as personal: “make atonement for the temple,” ensuring the place of meeting with God remained holy. How Christ Perfectly Fulfills This Pattern • Hebrews 9:12,14—Jesus entered “once for all” with His own blood, cleansing consciences from dead works. • 1 John 2:2—He is “the atoning sacrifice… for the whole world,” embracing every category of sin, including our unrecognized faults. • The temple is now both Christ’s body (John 2:19-21) and His people (1 Corinthians 3:16); His atonement secures holiness for both. Applying the Concept Today Personal Level • Daily confession (1 John 1:9): Invite the Spirit to reveal hidden faults (Psalm 19:12-13) and rest in the certainty that Christ’s blood already covers them. • Quick repentance: Treat sin, even “small” or unconscious, as worthy of immediate attention, reflecting God’s seriousness in Ezekiel 45. • Gratitude and worship: Respond to complete cleansing with thankful praise (Hebrews 13:15). Corporate Level • Gathered repentance: Incorporate moments of collective confession in church life, mirroring Israel’s communal atonement. • Guarding the “temple”: Encourage holiness in leadership and membership (Ephesians 5:25-27), knowing Christ died to present the church spotless. • Intercessory service: Like priests of old, intercede for others’ blind spots, appealing to Christ’s finished work (Colossians 1:28-29). Practical Rhythms 1. Weekly inventory—set a specific day to review attitudes, words, and actions, bringing anything revealed to Christ. 2. Accountability circles—trusted believers who help surface blind spots in a spirit of grace. 3. Worship with the Table—regular Communion keeps the atonement central (1 Corinthians 11:26). 4. Acts of mercy—extend the grace you’ve received to others, reinforcing the reality of atonement in everyday relationships (Ephesians 4:32). Living in the Good of Atonement Because the cross has satisfied God’s righteous requirements, believers walk in freedom, not fear. Continually applying atonement means: • Confidence before God (Hebrews 4:16) • Ongoing transformation (Romans 12:1-2) • A community that radiates holiness and grace, inviting the world to meet the One who “always lives to intercede” for us (Hebrews 7:25). |