In what ways can we apply the concept of atonement in our lives today? Leviticus 9:15—A Snapshot of Atonement “Aaron then presented the people’s offering. He took the male goat for the people’s sin offering, slaughtered it, and offered it for sin like the first one.” Atonement Explained: Covering Sin with Substitution • In Hebrew, “atonement” (kippur) means “covering.” • An innocent life (the goat) died in place of guilty people—foreshadowing Christ (Hebrews 9:12). • Blood was the God-ordained price: “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). Living Out Atonement Today 1. Receive the Ultimate Sacrifice • Trust Christ’s finished work: “He Himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 2:2). 2. Confess and Repent Quickly • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive” (1 John 1:9). • Regular repentance keeps fellowship vibrant. 3. Walk in Gratitude and Worship • Aaron’s offering led to praise (Leviticus 9:24). • Our daily worship—songs, giving, obedience—flows from thankful hearts (Romans 12:1). 4. Extend Forgiveness to Others • Because we’re covered, we can cover offenses (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13). 5. Participate in Communion Thoughtfully • The cup reminds us, “This is My blood of the covenant, poured out for many for forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28). • Examine yourself, remember the cost, rejoice in grace (1 Corinthians 11:26-28). 6. Share the Message of Reconciliation • “God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ… and He has committed to us the message of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). • Atonement propels evangelism—invite others to the covering. 7. Pursue Holiness • Covered people are called to be consecrated people (1 Peter 1:15-16). • The same God who required a spotless goat now calls us to spotless lives empowered by His Spirit (Galatians 5:16). Key Takeaways • Atonement is God’s gracious covering of sin by substitutionary blood. • Christ’s sacrifice is the once-for-all reality to which Leviticus 9:15 pointed. • Daily trust, repentance, gratitude, forgiveness, communion, witness, and holiness are practical ways we honor and apply that atonement right now. |
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