How does Leviticus 16:29 connect to Jesus' atonement for our sins? Scripture Focus “This is to be a permanent statute for you…” (Leviticus 16:29) Key Elements in the Verse • Permanent statute – the Day of Atonement is not a passing ritual • Tenth day of the seventh month – a fixed point on God’s calendar • “Deny yourselves” – humility and repentance required • “No work” – rest while another (the high priest) does the atoning work • Native and foreigner included – atonement offered to all who believe How the Day of Atonement Foreshadows Jesus 1. Substitutionary sacrifice – On Yom Kippur one goat died so the people could live. – “He Himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 2:2). 2. Priest and sacrifice united in Christ – Aaron entered with blood not his own; Jesus offered His own. – “He entered the Most Holy Place… having obtained eternal redemption” (Hebrews 9:12). 3. Required rest shows salvation is by grace, not works – Israel stood still while the priest acted; we cease striving and trust the finished work of the cross (Hebrews 4:10–11). 4. Humbling points to repentance and faith – Self-denial mirrors taking up the cross and following Christ (Luke 9:23). 5. Inclusion of foreigners prefigures the gospel going to every nation (Acts 10:34-35). Practical Connections Today • Approach God with repentance and humility; sin is serious, yet fully paid for. • Rest in Christ’s completed atonement—stop trying to earn forgiveness. • Remember the “permanent statute” by regularly reflecting on the cross. • Extend the invitation of grace to everyone, regardless of background. Summary Leviticus 16:29 sets a pattern of humble, work-free reliance on a God-provided sacrifice that brings cleansing to all who come. Jesus fulfills that pattern perfectly, becoming both High Priest and sin-bearing Lamb so our atonement is eternal and complete. |
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