How can we apply the concept of atonement in Numbers 28:22 today? Setting the Scene—Numbers 28:22 “and one male goat for a sin offering, to make atonement for you.” The Lord required a daily male-goat sin offering during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Its purpose was clear: blood was shed so the people could stand forgiven and accepted. Atonement—Covering Sin with Sacrifice • In Hebrew, “atonement” (kippur) means “covering.” • Sin creates real guilt before a holy God; blood covers that guilt so fellowship is restored. • Leviticus 17:11: “It is the blood that makes atonement for the soul.” • The goat in Numbers 28:22 showed that forgiveness is costly and must come from God’s appointed means, not human invention. Completed in Christ—The Perfect Sin Offering • Hebrews 9:22: “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” • Hebrews 10:4: “it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.” • God solved the limitation: “God presented Him as an atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood” (Romans 3:25). • Jesus fulfilled every goat, bull, and lamb: “we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” (Hebrews 10:10) • Because His sacrifice is final, no further animal offerings are needed—yet the principle of substitutionary blood remains eternally true. Living the Reality Today Accept the Substitute • Place personal trust in Christ’s finished work, not in good deeds or religious routines. • 1 John 1:7: “the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.” Practice Ongoing Confession • The sacrifice is once for all, but daily confession keeps fellowship vibrant (1 John 1:9). • Treat sin seriously; bring it into the light quickly. Celebrate With Gratitude • Let worship and Communion remind you that a life was given for yours. • Respond with thanksgiving, joy, and songs that exalt the cross. Pursue Holiness • Romans 6:11: consider yourself “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ.” • Make choices that reflect a life bought with precious blood. Extend Reconciliation • 2 Corinthians 5:19: God “not counting men’s trespasses against them.” • Forgive others, seek peace, and share the message of reconciliation. Serve Sacrificially • Live generously; your life belongs to the One who died for you (Romans 12:1). • Time, talents, and resources become living sacrifices that honor the once-for-all sacrifice. Practical Takeaways for Heart and Life • Remember daily: my acceptance rests on Jesus’ blood, not my performance. • Keep short accounts with God—confess quickly, receive cleansing confidently. • Let gratitude fuel obedience; holiness is a thank-you note to the Savior. • Share the good news: atonement is available to all who believe. Key Scriptures to Remember Numbers 28:22; Leviticus 17:11; Hebrews 9:22; Hebrews 10:4, 10; Romans 3:25; 1 John 1:7. |
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