Ezekiel 46:5 states: “And the meat offering that is offered to the Lord shall be of fine flour; and the drink offering thereof shall be the third part of an hin of wine, for a flock; and for a ram, a third part of an hin of wine, for a lamb.” This verse is part of a prophetic vision that details ritual practices associated with worship in the temple.
Verse Summary
This verse outlines the offerings that are to be brought to the Lord, emphasizing specific quantities of grain and wine to be used in the offerings. These instructions are crucial for maintaining the holiness and acceptance of the sacrifices presented to God.
Combining Insights from Commentaries
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Matthew Henry's Commentary: Henry highlights that these offerings signify the necessity of presenting our best to God, both in terms of materials and our attitudes. The act of offering fine flour and a specific measure of wine indicates thoroughness and intentionality in worship.
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Albert Barnes' Notes: Barnes elaborates on the importance of precision in the offerings. He notes that the exact measurements communicate not just the details of ritual practice but also represent God’s desire for order and obedience in worship.
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Adam Clarke’s Commentary: Clarke connects this offering with the broader sacrificial system, indicating that these established practices serve as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, showcasing both gratitude and dependence on God's provision.
Cross-References
In understanding Ezekiel 46:5, we can find connections to several other Bible verses that enrich our understanding:
- Exodus 29:40: “And with the one lamb a tenth deal of flour mingled with the fourth part of an hin of beaten oil, and the fourth part of an hin of wine for a drink offering.”
- Leviticus 23:13: “And the meat offering thereof shall be two tenth deals of fine flour mingled with oil, an offering made by fire unto the Lord for a sweet savour.”
- Numbers 15:5: “And the drink offering shall be the third part of an hin of wine, for a sweet savour unto the Lord.”
- 2 Chronicles 31:9-10: "And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and said, Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord, we have had enough to eat, and have left plenty: for the Lord hath blessed his people; and that which is left is this great store.”
- Hebrews 13:15: “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.”
- Matthew 5:23-24: “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”
- Romans 12:1: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”
Thematic Connections
The offerings mentioned in Ezekiel 46:5 relate to themes of worship, sacrifice, and obedience, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity and the heart behind offerings. Each of these cross-referenced verses illustrates elements of sacrifice and worship across the Old and New Testaments, forming a comprehensive understanding of how God desires His people to approach Him.
Understanding through Cross-Referencing
Cross-referencing Biblical texts like this can deepen our understanding of God's character and His expectations for worship. It allows us to see how various aspects of worship interlink and how they form a cohesive narrative throughout Scripture.
Tools for Deeper Study
For those interested in exploring Bible verse connections, various resources and methods can aid in this pursuit:
- Bible Concordance: A tool that helps locate verses that contain specific words or themes.
- Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Guides that list related verses side by side for comparative analysis.
- Cross-Reference Bible Study: Methods that encourage the examination of themes through the lens of multiple scriptures.
- Comprehensive Bible Cross-Reference Materials: Available resources that compile extensive parallels and links throughout the text.
Encouragement for Further Study
For anyone pursuing insight into specific scriptures such as Ezekiel 46:5, utilizing tools for cross-referencing can uncover layers of meaning. Whether for personal study or sermon preparation, understanding how different passages inform one another can enrich faith and comprehension of God's word.