Ezekiel 45:17

And it shall be the prince's part to provide the burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings for the feasts, New Moons, and Sabbaths--for all the appointed feasts of the house of Israel. He will provide the sin offerings, grain offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings to make atonement for the house of Israel.

Study Bible

And it shall be the prince’s part to provide the burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings
In the context of Ezekiel's vision, the "prince" refers to a leader or ruler in the restored Israel. This role is distinct from the high priest, emphasizing a division of responsibilities in worship. The prince's duty to provide offerings highlights the importance of leadership in facilitating worship and maintaining the spiritual life of the community. Burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings were integral to Israelite worship, symbolizing dedication, sustenance, and joy before God. These offerings are reminiscent of the Levitical system outlined in Leviticus and Numbers, underscoring continuity in worship practices.

for the feasts, New Moons, and Sabbaths
The mention of feasts, New Moons, and Sabbaths indicates the cyclical nature of Israel's worship calendar. Feasts such as Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles were times of communal gathering and remembrance of God's acts in history. New Moons marked the beginning of each month, while Sabbaths were weekly days of rest and worship. These observances were central to Israel's identity and relationship with God, serving as reminders of His provision and covenant. The prince's involvement in these observances underscores the integration of civil and religious leadership.

for all the appointed feasts of the house of Israel
The phrase "appointed feasts" refers to the divinely instituted times of celebration and worship. These feasts were not merely cultural events but were commanded by God as part of His covenant with Israel. They served as times of reflection, thanksgiving, and renewal of the covenant relationship. The prince's role in providing for these feasts highlights the importance of ensuring that the community can fully participate in these sacred times, maintaining their connection to God and their heritage.

He will provide the sin offerings, grain offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings
The provision of various offerings by the prince indicates a comprehensive approach to worship and atonement. Sin offerings were specifically for atonement and purification, addressing the people's transgressions. Grain offerings represented dedication and thanksgiving, while burnt offerings symbolized complete surrender to God. Peace offerings were expressions of fellowship and gratitude. This variety of offerings reflects the multifaceted nature of worship and the need for both individual and communal atonement and thanksgiving.

to make atonement for the house of Israel
Atonement is a central theme in the sacrificial system, signifying reconciliation between God and His people. The prince's role in making atonement emphasizes the need for leadership in guiding the nation towards spiritual renewal and purity. This anticipates the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, who fulfills and surpasses the sacrificial system through His death and resurrection. The concept of atonement in Ezekiel points forward to the New Covenant, where Christ is both the High Priest and the perfect sacrifice, providing eternal reconciliation for all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Prince
A leader or ruler in Israel responsible for providing offerings. This figure is often seen as a type of Christ or a future Davidic ruler.

2. Burnt Offerings, Grain Offerings, Drink Offerings
Various types of sacrifices prescribed in the Mosaic Law, each with specific purposes and symbolism.

3. Feasts, New Moons, Sabbaths
Regular and special times of worship and remembrance in the Jewish calendar, each with its own significance.

4. House of Israel
Refers to the people of Israel, God's chosen nation, for whom these offerings are made.

5. Atonement
The act of making amends or reparation for sin, a central theme in the sacrificial system pointing to the ultimate atonement through Christ.

Teaching Points

Role of Leadership in Worship
The prince's duty to provide offerings highlights the responsibility of leaders to facilitate and lead in worship. Leaders today should ensure that worship is Christ-centered and biblically grounded.

Symbolism of Sacrifices
Each type of offering has a specific meaning, pointing to different aspects of Christ's work. Understanding these can deepen our appreciation for His sacrifice.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The Old Testament sacrificial system finds its fulfillment in Jesus. Believers should see the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old to the New Testament.

Atonement and Reconciliation
The concept of atonement is central to our faith. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the grace of God in providing a way for reconciliation.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to live sacrificially, offering our lives in service to God and others, reflecting the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the prince in Ezekiel 45:17 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways do the different offerings mentioned in this verse point to the work of Christ?

3. How can understanding the Jewish feasts and sacrifices enhance our appreciation of Jesus' fulfillment of the Law?

4. What does the concept of atonement in Ezekiel teach us about the nature of sin and God's provision for forgiveness?

5. How can we apply the idea of being "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Details the feasts and offerings, providing background on the types of sacrifices mentioned in Ezekiel 45:17.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of Old Testament sacrifices and the ultimate fulfillment in Christ's sacrifice.

Isaiah 53
Prophecies about the suffering servant who would make atonement for sin, connecting to the concept of atonement in Ezekiel.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the offerings in Ezekiel.

Colossians 2:16-17
Speaks of the feasts and Sabbaths as a shadow of things to come, fulfilled in Christ.