In what ways can we seek forgiveness for unintentional sins today? Setting the Scene in Leviticus 4:26 “ ‘He shall burn all the fat on the altar, as he burned the fat of the fellowship offering; and the priest shall make atonement for him concerning his sin, and he will be forgiven.’ ” (Leviticus 4:26) - The focus is on unintentional sin—wrongdoing committed without conscious rebellion. - Forgiveness is granted when God’s atonement pattern is followed exactly. What Changed—and What Stayed the Same Old Covenant shadow → New Covenant fulfillment - Animal sacrifice foreshadowed a greater, final sacrifice (Hebrews 9:13-14). - A priest mediated; now “we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One” (1 John 2:1-2). - God’s standard of holiness and His willingness to forgive have never shifted (Malachi 3:6). How We Seek Forgiveness for Unintentional Sins Today 1. Acknowledge and Confess - “Who can discern his own mistakes? Cleanse me from my hidden faults.” (Psalm 19:12) - “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) 2. Trust the Completed Sacrifice - Jesus is “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). - His single offering “has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14). 3. Receive the Assurance - Forgiveness is not tentative; it is granted on the basis of Christ’s blood, just as surely as the Israelite was pardoned when the prescribed offering was made (Ephesians 1:7). 4. Walk in Repentant Obedience - Genuine confession results in changed direction (Acts 26:20). - Keep short accounts: a lifestyle of continual openness before God rather than sporadic, crisis-driven confession. Practical Habits for Daily Sensitivity to Hidden Faults - Regular Scripture intake—“The entrance of Your words gives light” (Psalm 119:130). - Invite the Spirit’s scrutiny—“Search me, O God, and know my heart” (Psalm 139:23-24). - Maintain fellowship—open accountability with mature believers (James 5:16). - Celebrate Communion thoughtfully—“Let a man examine himself” (1 Corinthians 11:28). The Ongoing Joy of Cleansed Conscience - Freedom from lingering guilt (Hebrews 9:14). - Restored intimacy with the Father (Psalm 32:1-2). - Fresh motivation for holy living (Titus 2:11-12). |
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