What is the meaning of Ezekiel 43:19? You are to give • The command is direct and personal, underscoring that obedience is not optional (James 1:22; Exodus 25:2). • God speaks through Ezekiel, yet the responsibility lands on the worshiper: bring what He requires, not what seems convenient (1 Samuel 15:22). • The immediacy of “are to” reminds us that delayed obedience is disobedience (Psalm 119:60). A young bull from the herd • A young (unblemished) bull pictures strength and vitality offered to God (Leviticus 4:3–4). • Bulls were the costliest sacrificial animals, signaling wholehearted devotion (2 Samuel 24:24). • The phrase “from the herd” ties the animal to everyday life, teaching that worship integrates the ordinary with the holy (Romans 12:1). As a sin offering • Sin offerings deal specifically with guilt before God (Leviticus 4:20; Hebrews 9:22). • Blood is necessary for atonement—pointing forward to Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:4, 10). • Even in a restored temple vision, sin still needs cleansing, showing human nature’s ongoing need for redemption (Romans 3:23). To the Levitical priests • God assigned priestly service exclusively to Levi (Numbers 3:6-10). • Priests mediate between God and people, foreshadowing our ultimate High Priest, Jesus (Hebrews 5:1-10). • Right worship involves God-ordained leadership, guarding against self-styled religion (2 Chronicles 26:16-19). Of the family of Zadok • Zadok’s line remained faithful when others defected (1 Kings 2:27, 35; Ezekiel 44:15). • Faithfulness is rewarded with continued privilege in God’s presence, encouraging perseverance today (Revelation 2:10). • The mention of a specific family roots the vision in real history, affirming Scripture’s accuracy. Who approach Me to minister • Nearness to God is a sacred trust requiring holiness (Exodus 19:22). • Ministry is first to God before it is for people—service flows from intimacy (Psalm 27:4; Hebrews 10:22). • Approach is possible only on His terms, reminding us of reverent boldness through Christ (Hebrews 4:16). Declares the Lord GOD • The verse ends with divine signature, guaranteeing every detail (Isaiah 55:11). • “Lord GOD” (Adonai Yahweh) combines sovereignty and covenant faithfulness (Ezekiel 36:23). • His declaration settles the matter; human opinion does not revise divine decree (Psalm 119:89). summary Ezekiel 43:19 unfolds a precise picture of restored worship: God commands a costly, pure sacrifice for sin, entrusted to faithful priests who alone may draw near. Each clause reinforces that acceptable approach to a holy God rests on obedience, consecration, and atoning blood—truths ultimately fulfilled in Christ yet calling believers today to the same wholehearted, reverent devotion. |