How does Leviticus 4:28 emphasize the importance of acknowledging unintentional sin? Leviticus 4:28 in context “when he becomes aware of the sin he has committed, he must bring an unblemished female goat as his sin offering, for the sin he has committed.” Key phrases that spotlight unintentional sin • “when he becomes aware” – God expects discovery and acknowledgement; ignorance is no permanent shelter. • “the sin he has committed” – Unintentional wrongdoing is still counted as sin. • “must bring … as his sin offering” – A mandatory remedy underscores divine seriousness. Why God requires a sacrifice even for unintentional sin • Holiness standard: Leviticus 11:44 — “Be holy, because I am holy…” Sin, intentional or not, violates holiness. • Justice and mercy meet: Numbers 15:27-29 shows a set provision for inadvertent sin, revealing God’s fairness in distinguishing motive yet still demanding atonement. • Foreshadowing Christ: Hebrews 9:7 — the high priest entered yearly “for the sins the people had committed in ignorance,” pointing forward to Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice. Practical implications for believers today • Pursue self-examination – Psalm 139:23-24 — invite God to “search me… and see if there is any offensive way in me.” • Confess quickly upon awareness – 1 John 1:9 — “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” • Rely on the perfect offering – 1 Peter 1:18-19 — redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish.” • Cultivate humility – Psalm 19:12 — “Who can discern his own errors? Cleanse me from my hidden faults.” Takeaway truths • God’s law penetrates beneath intentions to actions. • Awareness brings accountability; accountability demands response. • Provision for unintentional sin magnifies both God’s holiness and His grace in providing a sacrifice. |
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