How does Leviticus 16:22 connect to Jesus as our ultimate sin bearer? Leviticus 16:22 — the original picture “The goat will carry on itself all their iniquities to a solitary land, and the man shall release it in the wilderness.” • On the Day of Atonement two goats were chosen: one slaughtered for blood atonement, the other kept alive to “carry” the sins away. • The high priest laid both hands on the live goat, confessing Israel’s sins over it; guilt was transferred. • A qualified man then led the animal far from the camp, ensuring the sins were removed from the people’s sight and dwelling. How the scapegoat points to Jesus • Sin bearer, yet sinless – The goat had done no wrong; Jesus “knew no sin” (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Substitution – The goat stood in Israel’s place; Christ stands in ours (1 Peter 2:24). • Removal of guilt – Israel watched sin disappear into the wilderness; believers see theirs “taken away” by “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29). • Outside the camp – The goat was banished; Jesus “suffered outside the city gate” (Hebrews 13:12-13). Cascading echoes in the New Testament • Isaiah 53:4-6 — “the LORD has laid upon Him the iniquity of us all.” • Hebrews 9:28 — “Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many.” • 1 Peter 2:24 — “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree.” • 2 Corinthians 5:21 — God made Him “to be sin on our behalf.” • Hebrews 10:14-18 — one sacrifice “perfected for all time” those being sanctified. Greater finality found in Christ • One sacrifice, once for all; no annual repetition (Hebrews 9:11-12). • Blood sprinkled in the heavenly sanctuary, not an earthly tent (Hebrews 9:24). • Resurrection proof that sin is fully dealt with (Romans 4:25). • Ongoing priestly intercession securing our access (Hebrews 7:25). Living in the freedom of carried-away sin • Rest assured: if God has removed your sin, you need not retrieve it with guilt. • Walk “outside the camp,” gladly identifying with the One who bore shame for you. • Extend forgiveness to others; their sins can be “sent away” just as yours were. • Celebrate regularly at the Lord’s Table, remembering the better Scapegoat who will never return your sin to you. |
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