What role does the blood play in the sacrificial system described in Leviticus 9:9? The Scene in Leviticus 9:9 “ The sons of Aaron brought the blood to him, and he dipped his finger into the blood and put it on the horns of the altar. He poured out the rest of the blood at the base of the altar.” Why Blood? God’s Design for Atonement • Leviticus 17:11 explains the logic: “For the life of the flesh is in the blood… it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul.” • Blood represents life itself. By surrendering it, the worshiper offers life back to the Life-giver, acknowledging sin’s cost. • Hebrews 9:22 echoes the principle: “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Two Movements of the Blood in 9:9 1. Finger-dabbed on the altar’s horns ‑ The horns symbolize strength and refuge (cf. 1 Kings 1:50). ‑ Blood there visibly “covers” the sinner’s guilt, turning God’s wrath away. 2. Poured at the base ‑ Completes the offering, cleansing the altar area itself. ‑ Demonstrates total consecration—nothing held back. What the Blood Accomplishes • Atonement: sin’s penalty transferred to an innocent substitute. • Purification: the sanctuary, priest, and people are ceremonially cleansed (Hebrews 9:13-14). • Covenant renewal: every offering reaffirms Israel’s covenant bond with God. • Foreshadowing: prepares hearts to recognize Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:4, 10). Echoes Throughout Scripture • Exodus 12:13—blood on doorposts turns away judgment. • Isaiah 53:5—Messiah “pierced for our transgressions.” • Romans 5:9—“justified by His blood.” • Ephesians 1:7; 1 John 1:7—redemption and cleansing through Jesus’ blood. Living This Truth Today • Take sin seriously; it costs life. • Rejoice that Jesus fulfilled every blood rite perfectly. • Approach God confidently—His altar is forever sprinkled with Christ’s blood. |
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