What is the meaning of Numbers 29:28? Include one male goat “Include one male goat…” (Numbers 29:28) • The goat signals substitution—an innocent creature taking the place of guilty people (Leviticus 16:15–16). • Using a male goat recalls earlier sin offerings for leaders (Leviticus 4:22–23) and for the nation (Leviticus 4:13–15). • A single animal highlights individual accountability yet corporate solidarity; one sacrifice stands for all present. as a sin offering “…as a sin offering…” • The sin offering deals specifically with unintentional or residual sin, cleansing both worshippers and sacred space (Leviticus 4:1–12; Hebrews 9:22). • It reminds Israel that even during celebratory feasts (Numbers 29 outlines the Feast of Tabernacles) sin must still be addressed. • Forgiveness is granted by God’s grace but always at the cost of shed blood (Leviticus 17:11; 1 Peter 1:18–19). in addition to the regular burnt offering “…in addition to the regular burnt offering…” • The “regular” or continual burnt offering occurred every morning and evening (Numbers 28:3–4). • God’s daily provision of atonement is foundational; festival sacrifices build on—not replace—that rhythm (Exodus 29:38–42). • This phrase stresses that special occasions never suspend ordinary obedience. with its grain offering “…with its grain offering…” • Grain offerings accompanied burnt offerings as tangible gratitude for God’s provision (Leviticus 2:1–3). • Fine flour mixed with oil and incense pointed to lives consecrated wholly to the Lord (Romans 12:1). • Pairing grain with sin offerings teaches that thanksgiving and repentance belong together (Psalm 50:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:18). and drink offering “…and drink offering.” • Poured wine symbolized joyful fellowship and complete surrender (Numbers 28:7–8; Philippians 2:17). • The sequence—blood, bread, wine—anticipates the fullness of communion later revealed in Christ (Luke 22:19–20). • Including the drink offering confirms that worship touches every aspect of daily harvest and celebration. summary Numbers 29:28 packs a full theology into a single verse: one male goat stands in for sinners, blood is shed for cleansing, and the sacrifice is offered alongside the regular burnt, grain, and drink offerings. In festival or routine, God invites His people to continual repentance, gratitude, and joyful fellowship, all pointing forward to the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ. |
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