What does "make atonement for himself" teach about personal responsibility before God? Personal Responsibility Highlighted • Leviticus 16:6 — “Aaron is to present the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household.” • The phrase “make atonement for himself” spotlights the high priest’s obligation to deal first with his own sin before ministering for others. • It underscores that no one is exempt from accountability; even Israel’s spiritual leader must face God regarding personal guilt. Why Aaron Had to Atone for Himself • Holiness of God: Sin cannot stand in God’s presence (Habakkuk 1:13). A mediator must be cleansed before representing others. • Integrity of ministry: Personal purity validates public service (1 Timothy 4:16). • Pattern of substitution: Aaron’s bull symbolized the need for a sacrifice personal to the sinner (Hebrews 5:3). Lessons for Believers Today • Examine yourself first (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Confess known sin quickly (1 John 1:9). • Approach service with a clean heart—private holiness precedes public usefulness (Psalm 24:3-4). • Accept Christ’s once-for-all atonement, yet practice ongoing repentance (Hebrews 10:14; Revelation 3:19). Other Scriptures Reinforcing Personal Responsibility • Ezekiel 18:20 — “The soul who sins is the one who will die.” • Romans 14:12 — “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” • Galatians 6:5 — “For each one should carry his own load.” Summary “Make atonement for himself” teaches that every individual, regardless of position, must personally address sin before God. Personal responsibility remains foundational: we must acknowledge guilt, receive Christ’s sacrifice, and walk in daily repentance to serve effectively and stand blameless before a holy God. |
    |