How does Leviticus 5:6 connect to Christ's ultimate sacrifice for our sins? “and he must bring his guilt offering to the LORD for the sin he has committed: a female lamb or goat from the flock as a sin offering. In this way the priest will make atonement for him for his sin.” Layers of Meaning in the Original Offering • Personal acknowledgment of sin—“for the sin he has committed” • A substitute life—an innocent animal stands in the sinner’s place • Blood shed—Leviticus 17:11 affirms that “the life of the flesh is in the blood” and that blood makes atonement • Priestly mediation—the sinner cannot approach God without an appointed mediator • Atonement accomplished—the offender walks away forgiven upon the sacrifice’s death How the Pattern Anticipates Christ • John 1:29—Jesus announced as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” • 1 Peter 1:18-19—redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot” • 2 Corinthians 5:21—He “made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf” • Hebrews 9:22—“without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” • Like the Levitical worshiper, every sinner needs: – Acknowledgment of guilt – A sinless substitute – Blood that covers – A mediator From Repeated Sacrifices to One Perfect Offering • Hebrews 9:11-14—Christ entered the heavenly sanctuary “by His own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption” • Hebrews 10:10—“we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” • Hebrews 10:12—“after He had offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, sat down at the right hand of God” • Levitical sacrifices were continual; Christ’s sacrifice is conclusive • Levitical priests stood daily; Christ sits, signaling finished work Living in the Light of the Fulfillment • Confidence—Romans 8:1 declares “no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus” • Ongoing confession—1 John 1:9 promises cleansing because the sacrifice remains effective • Grateful obedience—Romans 12:1 urges believers to present themselves as “living sacrifices” • Hope—Hebrews 9:28 assures His return “to bring salvation to those who eagerly await Him” Leviticus 5:6 sketches the contours of substitutionary atonement; the cross of Christ fills them in with final, saving color. |
    |