Animal Sacrifices Before And After Christ's Crussifiction

Will Animal Sacrifices Return During the Millennial Kingdom?

Understanding Their Role After Christ’s Crucifixion

Introduction

One of the most perplexing aspects of biblical prophecy is the mention of animal sacrifices during the Millennial Kingdom—the thousand-year reign of Jesus Christ on earth after His Second Coming (Revelation 20:1–6).

This raises an important question: Why would God allow animal sacrifices again after Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice on the Cross?

1. The Two Classes of People in the Millennial Kingdom

A. The Redeemed Saints (Resurrected/Glorified)

• Believers resurrected or raptured before the Millennium (1 Thess. 4:16–17; Rev. 20:4–6)
• Receive glorified, incorruptible bodies (1 Cor. 15:52–54)
• Rule with Christ and do not participate in sacrifices

B. The Surviving Nations (Mortal Humans)

• People who survive the Tribulation enter the Kingdom in natural bodies
• Continue to marry and repopulate the earth
• Participate in worship systems including sacrifices and feasts

2. Prophecies of Sacrifices in the Millennial Temple

Ezekiel 40–48 describes a temple with burnt offerings, sin offerings, and Levitical priests. This is a future temple:

• Never built in history
• Vastly different from past temples
• Established during Christ’s reign when God dwells among His people (Ezek. 43:7)

3. The Purpose of Sacrifices in the Millennial Kingdom

A. Not for Atonement

"By one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified." – Hebrews 10:14

The blood of Jesus fulfilled all requirements for sin. No more atonement is needed.

B. Memorial and Educational

Like the Lord’s Supper today, sacrifices during the Millennium serve as reminders of Christ’s redemptive work and teach future generations about the cost of sin.

C. National Worship and Order

Zechariah 14 shows nations coming to worship the King and keep feasts like Tabernacles. Sacrifices will be part of that worship system.

4. Harmony Between the Cross and the Future Temple

Christ's sacrifice remains the center of salvation. Millennial sacrifices will point back to His finished work and honor it.

5. Common Misunderstandings

"Does God still demand blood?"

No. Christ's sacrifice is complete. Millennial offerings are symbolic.

"Isn’t this going back under the law?"

No. This is a new order under Christ's reign, not Mosaic legalism.

Conclusion: A Kingdom of Perfect Worship

The Millennial Kingdom will blend spiritual worship with visible instruction. Redeemed saints will serve in glorified bodies, and nations will be taught righteousness. Christ will reign, and every element—including sacrifices—will point to His glory.

"In that day there shall be inscribed on the bells of the horses: ‘HOLY TO THE LORD.’" – Zechariah 14:20