How does Leviticus 5:10 illustrate God's provision for atonement and forgiveness? “And he shall offer the second as a burnt offering according to the regulation. So the priest will make atonement on his behalf for the sin he has committed, and he will be forgiven.” Immediate Setting • The worshiper has already offered one bird as a sin offering; the second bird becomes a burnt offering. • This instruction is given for those too poor to bring a lamb (5:7), underscoring God’s care for every Israelite. Key Truths in the Verse • Atonement is made “on his behalf”—the guilty sinner does not atone for himself. • The sacrifice is substitutionary—an innocent life takes the place of the offender (cf. Leviticus 17:11). • Forgiveness follows atonement; God’s pardon is secured when His prescribed means is obeyed. • The entire process is mediated by the priest, pointing to the necessity of an intercessor (Hebrews 5:1). God’s Gracious Provision • Accessibility: Birds were inexpensive; no one was excluded because of poverty (Leviticus 5:7). • Sufficiency: One sin offering plus one burnt offering completely settled the matter—nothing additional was required. • Certainty: “He will be forgiven” leaves no doubt; God’s promise is immediate and assured (Isaiah 55:7). Foreshadowing the Cross • Substitution—fulfilled in Christ, “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). • Priestly mediation—perfected in Jesus, our great High Priest (Hebrews 9:11-12). • Complete forgiveness—secured by His once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10,14). • Inclusivity—just as birds made atonement possible for the poorest, Christ’s work is available to “whoever believes” (Romans 10:11-13). Takeaway for Today • God Himself provides the way for sin to be covered and fellowship restored. • He invites every sinner, regardless of status, to receive full forgiveness through the sacrifice He has appointed—ultimately fulfilled in His Son. |
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