How can we apply the concept of atonement in our daily Christian walk? Setting the Scene Hezekiah’s reopening of the temple marked a fresh start for Judah. The first order of business was atonement—blood on the altar so the nation could return to fellowship with God. Key Verse “So they slaughtered the bulls, and the priests took the blood and sprinkled it on the altar. Then they slaughtered the rams and sprinkled the blood on the altar. Then they slaughtered the lambs and sprinkled the blood on the altar.” (2 Chronicles 29:22) What the Blood Accomplished • Substitution—an innocent life stood in place of guilty sinners (Leviticus 17:11). • Cleansing—the sprinkling removed ceremonial defilement so worship could resume (Hebrews 9:22). • Reconciliation—God’s righteous wrath was satisfied, restoring covenant relationship. From Temple Altar to the Cross • Jesus is “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). • “He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption” (Hebrews 9:12). • “You were redeemed … with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:18-19). Daily Walk: Living Under the Atoning Blood • Confess quickly and walk in the light—1 John 1:7-9. • Reject condemnation—Romans 8:1. • Pursue holiness with confidence—Hebrews 10:22-23. • Forgive others as you have been forgiven—Ephesians 4:32. • Love sacrificially—Ephesians 5:2. • Share the message of reconciliation—2 Corinthians 5:18-21. Practical Habits to Keep the Cross Central – Begin each day thanking Jesus for His finished work. – Pause at the first prick of guilt, confess, and move forward cleansed. – Memorize verses about the blood of Christ; rehearse them when tempted. – Celebrate Communion with fresh awe, remembering the cost. – Serve someone anonymously each week as a living echo of sacrificial love. – End the day noting evidence of grace—where the atonement’s freedom showed up in word, thought, or deed. Closing Thoughts The animals slain in Hezekiah’s day pointed ahead to the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ. Living under that atoning blood means walking in ongoing repentance, fearless assurance, and active, self-giving love. |
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