How does Ezekiel 43:18 emphasize the importance of altar purification in worship? Reading the Text “Then He said to me: ‘Son of man, this is what the Lord GOD says: These are the statutes for the altar on the day it is built, so that burnt offerings may be offered on it and blood sprinkled against it.’” (Ezekiel 43:18) Key Observation: Purification Comes Before Worship • Ezekiel 43:18 begins a detailed section (vv. 18-27) describing how the altar must be cleansed before any sacrifice is accepted. • The verse puts the spotlight on “statutes”—fixed, non-negotiable rules handed down by the Lord GOD. • The goal is explicit: the altar is only “ready” for burnt offerings and blood once it has been purified. Why the Altar Must Be Purified 1. Holiness of God • God’s glory had just returned to the temple (43:1-5). A holy God requires a holy meeting place. • Exodus 29:36-37 establishes the precedent: “You must purify the altar… and the altar shall be most holy”. 2. Atonement for Sin • Blood sprinkled on the altar (v. 18) points to substitutionary atonement (Leviticus 17:11). • Purification rituals acknowledge sin’s defilement and God’s provision for cleansing. 3. Protection for Worshipers • Leviticus 16:18-19 shows that purification protects the people from judgment when approaching God. • Without cleansing, worshipers would be exposed to holy wrath (cf. Isaiah 6:5-7). Old Testament Echoes • Leviticus 8:10-15 – Moses consecrates the altar with anointing oil and blood. • 2 Chronicles 29:18-21 – Hezekiah’s priests cleanse the altar before national worship is restored. • Numbers 7:10-88 – Tribal leaders present offerings only after the altar’s dedication. New Testament Fulfillment • Hebrews 9:22 – “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” • Hebrews 9:14 – Christ’s blood “will cleanse our consciences” just as the altar was cleansed. • 1 Peter 1:18-19 – The Lamb “without blemish” fulfills every Old Testament purification. Practical Takeaways for Worship Today • God still cares about purity in worship; He now purifies hearts (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). • Approach Him through the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ, the perfect altar and offering (Hebrews 10:19-22). • Maintain a lifestyle of holiness that matches the purity God requires (1 Peter 1:15-16). |
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