How does this verse connect to Christ's atoning sacrifice in the New Testament? Verse in Focus “And he shall lay his hand on the head of the sin offering and slaughter it at the place of the burnt offering.” (Leviticus 4:29) Key Observations • Laying a hand on the animal’s head signified personal identification; guilt was transferred from sinner to substitute. • The animal was slain “at the place of the burnt offering,” the public altar where God accepted substitutionary death. • Bloodshed was essential—life for life—because “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). Connecting the Shadows to Christ • Identification fulfilled: When the sinner’s hand rested on the animal, it foreshadowed the Father placing our sin on His Son—“the LORD has laid upon Him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6). • Substitution perfected: The animal died in the worshiper’s place; Jesus died in ours. “God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf” (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Public sacrifice echoed: Just as the sin offering was killed at the altar in view of the camp, Christ was crucified publicly “outside the gate to sanctify the people by His own blood” (Hebrews 13:11-12). • Single, sufficient offering: Leviticus required countless animals; Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice accomplished eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12). Supporting New Testament Passages • Romans 3:25 — “God presented Him as an atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood…” • 1 Peter 2:24 — “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree…” • John 1:29 — “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Why This Matters for Us • Assurance: The same God who accepted the sin offering accepts Christ’s blood, guaranteeing forgiveness. • Identity: By faith, we “lay our hand” on Jesus, trusting His substitution instead of offering our own works. • Worship: Grasping the cost of atonement moves us from routine religion to heartfelt gratitude and obedience. |
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