How does Leviticus 5:13 connect to Jesus' role as our High Priest? Leviticus 5:13 in Context “Then the priest shall make atonement for him regarding the sin he has committed in any of these cases, and he will be forgiven. The rest of the offering will belong to the priest, like the grain offering.” Key Observations from the Verse • A priest stands between the sinner and God. • Atonement is made through a prescribed sacrifice. • Forgiveness is immediate and assured. • Part of the offering remains with the priest, underscoring his ongoing ministry. Patterns That Point Forward • Mediation—someone appointed by God pleads for the guilty (cf. Exodus 28:41). • Substitution—the offering dies in place of the sinner (cf. Leviticus 17:11). • Assurance—the sinner leaves knowing he “will be forgiven.” • Provision for the poor—this sin offering could be reduced to a handful of flour (Leviticus 5:11-12), hinting that God makes forgiveness accessible to all. Jesus, the Greater High Priest • Perfect Mediator – “Therefore since we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens—Jesus the Son of God—let us hold firmly to what we profess.” (Hebrews 4:14) • All-sufficient Atonement – “He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.” (Hebrews 9:12) – Unlike the priest who offered another creature, Jesus offered Himself (Hebrews 7:27). • Final and Certain Forgiveness – “By one sacrifice He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.” (Hebrews 10:14) – The Old Testament promise “he will be forgiven” finds its ultimate fulfillment in the cross (Ephesians 1:7). • Personal Share in the Offering – Old-covenant priests kept part of the sacrifice; our High Priest receives the entire reward of redeemed people who now belong to Him (1 Peter 2:9-10). • Open Door for Everyone – As Leviticus allowed even the poorest to bring flour, Jesus invites “all who are thirsty” to come (John 7:37) and grants access to God without economic or social barrier (Galatians 3:28). Implications for Daily Life • Confidence—approach God without lingering guilt (Hebrews 4:16). • Gratitude—worship the One who both offers and is the offering. • Holiness—live as people bought by a costly sacrifice (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Leviticus 5:13 sketches a priestly act that forgives sin. Jesus embodies and completes that sketch, becoming our eternal High Priest whose once-for-all sacrifice secures unbreakable forgiveness for every believer. |
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