Meaning and Interpretation

This verse is part of a larger vision given to the prophet Ezekiel concerning the future temple and the restoration of Israel. The act of cleansing and purifying the altar with blood symbolizes atonement and the necessity of holiness in worship.

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the significance of the blood as a representation of life and is crucial in the Old Testament sacrificial system. The meticulous instructions denote God's demand for purity and dedication in worship.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes discusses the importance of blood in relation to the covenant between God and Israel. Here, the act signifies not just physical cleansing, but the deeper spiritual renewal and reconciliation with God.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke highlights the symbolic aspect of the cleansing process. He relates it to the New Testament teachings on Jesus' blood being shed for mankind's sins, drawing a parallel between the Old and New Covenants.

Cross-References

This verse can be cross-referenced with several other scripture passages that illuminate its themes:

• Exodus 29:12: Instructions for blood application during consecration.
• Leviticus 16:15: The day of atonement and the significance of blood.
• Hebrews 9:22: Importance of blood for remission of sins.
• Revelation 1:5: Jesus as the one who washed us from our sins in His own blood.
• Romans 3:25: Christ's blood as a propitiation for our sins.
• 1 John 1:7: The blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin.
• Leviticus 4:30: The sacrificial system and the role of blood.

Connections Between Bible Verses

Understanding Ezekiel 43:20 requires recognizing its thematic connections to both the Old and New Testaments:

• Linking Past and Present:

  The notion of purification through sacrifice connects many Old Testament laws to their fulfillment in Christ's atoning sacrifice.

• Thematic Cohesion:

  Cleansing rituals underscore God's desire for holiness among His people, seen throughout scriptures from Exodus to the Gospels.

• Inter-Biblical Dialogue:

  The concept of blood in sacrifice serves as a constant dialogue about God's redemptive plan, leading to reflections in Pauline epistles and the book of Hebrews.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

To explore these connections further, various tools can be utilized:

• Bible concordance: A resource for finding specific words and their related verses.
• Bible cross-reference guide: Helps in identifying thematic and narrative links across the scripture.
• Cross-reference Bible study methods: Various methodologies to delve deeper into the interconnections between verses.
• Bible reference resources: Resources such as commentaries, study Bibles, and online databases.
• Bible chain references: Following a chain of related passages that build on the original verse.

Conclusion

Ezekiel 43:20 encapsulates the deep-seated principles of atonement, purity, and the necessary steps to restore right worship before the Almighty. Through cross-referencing, we can see how interconnected these ideas are within the biblical narrative, enhancing our understanding of scripture as a cohesive whole.