Leviticus 23:28

On this day you are not to do any work, for it is the Day of Atonement, when atonement is made for you before the LORD your God.

Study Bible

On this day you are not to do any work
This command emphasizes the solemnity and sacredness of the Day of Atonement, known as Yom Kippur. It is a day set apart from ordinary activities, highlighting the importance of rest and reflection. The prohibition against work underscores the need for the Israelites to focus entirely on spiritual matters, setting aside daily labor to engage in repentance and reconciliation with God. This mirrors the Sabbath principle, where rest is a form of worship and trust in God's provision.

for it is the Day of Atonement
The Day of Atonement is the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar, a time for national and individual repentance. It is a day when the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies to make atonement for the sins of the people. This day foreshadows the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, who, as the High Priest, entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all, offering His own blood for the redemption of humanity (Hebrews 9:11-12).

when atonement is made for you
Atonement involves the covering or removal of sin, allowing for reconciliation between God and His people. In the Old Testament, this was achieved through the sacrificial system, where the blood of animals symbolically cleansed the people from their sins. This anticipates the New Testament fulfillment in Christ, whose sacrifice on the cross provides true and lasting atonement for sin (Romans 3:25).

before the LORD your God
The phrase "before the LORD" signifies the presence of God and the seriousness of the occasion. The Day of Atonement is not merely a ritual but a divine appointment where the Israelites stand in the presence of their holy God. It is a reminder of God's holiness and the need for His people to be purified to maintain fellowship with Him. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to live holy lives, recognizing that they are always in the presence of God (1 Peter 1:15-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands the observance of the Day of Atonement.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws and instructions to the Israelites.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are commanded to observe the Day of Atonement.

4. The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)
A sacred day of rest and atonement for sins, central to the Jewish calendar.

5. The Tabernacle/Temple
The place where the high priest would perform the atonement rituals.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Atonement
The Day of Atonement underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God. It points to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ.

Rest and Reflection
Observing a day of rest and refraining from work allows believers to focus on their relationship with God, reflecting on His holiness and grace.

The Role of the High Priest
In the Old Testament, the high priest mediated between God and the people. Jesus, our eternal High Priest, has made a once-for-all atonement, granting us direct access to God.

Holiness and Repentance
The Day of Atonement calls for self-examination and repentance, reminding believers of the importance of living a holy life in response to God's grace.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of the Day of Atonement highlights the importance of corporate worship and accountability within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the observance of the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 23:28 reflect the character of God as both just and merciful?

2. In what ways does the role of the high priest on the Day of Atonement foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as described in Hebrews 9?

3. How can the principles of rest and reflection on the Day of Atonement be applied to our modern-day practice of Sabbath and worship?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate the themes of repentance and holiness from the Day of Atonement into our daily lives?

5. How does understanding the communal aspect of the Day of Atonement enhance our appreciation for corporate worship and fellowship in the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 16
Provides detailed instructions on the rituals and sacrifices performed on the Day of Atonement, emphasizing the role of the high priest.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the fulfillment of the Day of Atonement through Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all.

Isaiah 53
Describes the suffering servant, whose sacrifice brings atonement and peace, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

Romans 3
Explains the concept of atonement and justification through faith in Jesus Christ, highlighting the continuity of God's plan for redemption.