What does Ezekiel 43:21 teach about God's holiness and our approach to Him? Verse “Then you are to take the bull for the sin offering and burn it in the appointed part of the temple area outside the sanctuary.” — Ezekiel 43:21 Key Observations from Ezekiel 43:21 • A sin offering is required before any other worship can proceed. • The sacrifice is a bull—costly, substantial, emphasizing the gravity of sin. • It is burned “outside the sanctuary,” showing sin must be removed from God’s immediate presence. • The exact place is “appointed,” meaning God—not man—determines every detail of acceptable worship. God’s Holiness Displayed • Absolute purity: Habakkuk 1:13 reminds us God’s eyes are “too pure to look on evil.” The verse underscores that truth; sin cannot remain where He dwells. • Separation from sin: Leviticus 4:12; 16:27 record similar instructions, reinforcing that anything bearing sin’s guilt must be taken outside the holy area. • Divine order: The detail of an “appointed part” highlights God’s right to dictate the terms of access (Exodus 25:40). Our Approach to God • Sin must be dealt with first (Isaiah 6:5–7). We do not approach casually; cleansing precedes communion. • We come on God’s terms, not ours (Leviticus 10:1–3). Self-styled worship is rejected. • Reverence is non-negotiable. The removal of the sacrifice outside calls believers to examine hearts and confess sin (1 John 1:9). How the Sacrifice Points Forward to Christ • Hebrews 13:11-12 links the Old Testament sin offering burned outside the camp to Jesus, who “suffered outside the gate to sanctify the people.” • The once-for-all sacrifice fulfills the pattern (Hebrews 10:10). In Him, holiness and mercy meet, granting confident access (Hebrews 10:19-22). Living Out the Truth Today • Confess and forsake sin quickly; God’s holiness has not changed (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Approach worship with prepared hearts—reflect, repent, then rejoice. • Rely wholly on Christ’s completed sacrifice; never treat the cross lightly (1 Corinthians 11:27-28). • Cultivate reverence in every gathering, remembering that God still appoints the way we draw near—through His Son and in obedience to His Word. |
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