How can understanding Leviticus 17:11 deepen our appreciation for Christ's atoning work? Leviticus 17:11 in its original setting “For the life of the creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.” (Leviticus 17:11) key truths the verse establishes • Life belongs to God—He identifies blood as the very seat of life. • God Himself provides the means of atonement (“I have given it to you”). • Substitution is required—life exchanged for life. • Atonement is objective and effective; blood actually “makes atonement.” the verse as a prophetic shadow • Every sacrifice in Israel kept the nation alive only because another life was surrendered in its place. • Repetition of sacrifices underscored their limitation (Hebrews 10:1–4). • The worshiper was constantly reminded that sin costs life (Romans 6:23). fulfilled perfectly in christ • Jesus embodies the provision: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). • His blood meets the divine requirement once for all (Hebrews 9:11–14; 10:10). • Unlike animals, the Son offers His own willing, sinless life (1 Peter 1:18–19). • God still provides the atonement—this time through His own incarnate Son (Romans 3:24–25). deepening our appreciation • We grasp the cost: every Old Testament altar whispers the price Christ ultimately paid. • We cherish its sufficiency: no additional sacrifice can improve on Calvary (Hebrews 10:18). • We rest in its security: the life-blood of the eternal Son secures eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12). • We respond in worship: “To Him who loves us and has released us from our sins by His blood” (Revelation 1:5). |
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