Ezekiel 43:27

At the end of these days, from the eighth day on, the priests are to present your burnt offerings and peace offerings on the altar. Then I will accept you, declares the Lord GOD.'"

Study Bible

At the end of these days
This phrase refers to the culmination of a specific period of consecration and preparation described earlier in Ezekiel 43. The context is the vision of the new temple, which Ezekiel receives while in exile. The "days" mentioned are part of a seven-day period of purification and dedication for the altar, reminiscent of the consecration of the tabernacle in Exodus 29:35-37. This period signifies a transition from preparation to active worship.

from the eighth day on
The eighth day marks a new beginning, a theme consistent throughout Scripture. The number eight often symbolizes new creation or a new order, as seen in the resurrection of Jesus, which occurred on the first day of the week, the day after the Sabbath (the seventh day). This new beginning signifies the start of regular worship practices in the temple, emphasizing renewal and restoration.

the priests are to present your burnt offerings and peace offerings on the altar
Burnt offerings and peace offerings were central to Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement and fellowship with God, respectively. The priests, as mediators between God and the people, play a crucial role in maintaining the covenant relationship. The altar, a focal point of the temple, represents God's presence and the place where sacrifices are made. This practice connects to Leviticus 1 and 3, where the regulations for these offerings are detailed, highlighting the continuity of worship practices.

Then I will accept you
Acceptance by God is contingent upon obedience to His commands and the proper execution of sacrificial rituals. This phrase underscores the importance of following divine instructions to maintain a right relationship with God. It echoes the covenantal language found throughout the Old Testament, where God's acceptance is linked to Israel's faithfulness (e.g., Deuteronomy 28).

declares the Lord GOD
This authoritative declaration emphasizes the divine origin of the message. The use of "Lord GOD" (YHWH Elohim) underscores God's sovereignty and covenantal faithfulness. It assures the exiles that despite their current circumstances, God remains committed to His promises and will restore proper worship in the future temple. This assurance is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, offering hope and a vision of restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book that bears his name. He receives visions and messages from God to deliver to the Israelites.

2. The Altar
The altar in Ezekiel 43 is part of the vision of the new temple. It symbolizes the restoration of proper worship and the presence of God among His people.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who are in exile during Ezekiel's time. They are the primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies and are called to repentance and restoration.

4. The Temple
The vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40-48 represents God's future dwelling place with His people, symbolizing hope and restoration.

5. The Seventh Day
In Ezekiel 43:27, the seventh day marks the completion of the altar's consecration, signifying a new beginning in worship practices.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Worship
The consecration of the altar underscores the need for holiness in our worship practices. Just as the altar was set apart for God, our lives should be dedicated to His service.

Completion and New Beginnings
The seventh day of consecration signifies completion and the start of a new phase in worship. In our lives, we should seek to complete what God has called us to and be open to new beginnings in our spiritual journey.

God's Presence
The vision of the temple and the altar reminds us of God's desire to dwell among His people. We should cultivate an awareness of His presence in our daily lives and strive to live in a way that honors Him.

Sacrifice and Atonement
The sacrificial system points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We should live in gratitude for His atonement and seek to reflect His love and grace to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of the altar in Ezekiel 43:27 reflect the importance of holiness in our worship today?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of completion and new beginnings in our spiritual lives, as seen in the seventh day of consecration?

3. How does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel relate to the New Testament understanding of the church as the body of Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives?

5. How does the sacrificial system in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of Christ's sacrifice in the New Testament, and how should this impact our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8-9
The consecration of the altar in Ezekiel 43:27 parallels the consecration of the tabernacle and the priests in Leviticus, emphasizing the importance of holiness and proper worship.

Hebrews 10
This chapter discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Covenant, where Christ's sacrifice fulfills and surpasses the need for continual offerings.

Revelation 21
The vision of the new temple in Ezekiel foreshadows the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell with His people eternally, highlighting the theme of restoration and divine presence.