Leviticus 7:7

The guilt offering is like the sin offering; the same law applies to both. It belongs to the priest who makes atonement with it.

Study Bible

The guilt offering is like the sin offering;
The guilt offering, also known as the trespass offering, and the sin offering are both part of the sacrificial system established in Leviticus. Both offerings address the issue of sin, but the guilt offering specifically deals with sins that require restitution, such as defrauding a neighbor or misusing holy things. The sin offering, on the other hand, is more general, covering unintentional sins and purification. The similarity between the two offerings highlights the comprehensive nature of atonement in the Old Testament, emphasizing the need for both reconciliation with God and restitution with others. This reflects the dual aspect of sin, affecting both divine and human relationships.

the same law applies to both.
This phrase underscores the uniformity and consistency in the sacrificial system. The laws governing these offerings are detailed in Leviticus chapters 4 through 7, providing a structured approach to atonement. The same law applying to both offerings indicates that the principles of atonement, repentance, and restitution are universally applicable, regardless of the specific nature of the sin. This consistency points to the unchanging nature of God's justice and mercy. It also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfills all aspects of the law and provides a once-for-all atonement for sin.

It belongs to the priest
The offerings belong to the priest as part of their provision. In the ancient Israelite context, priests did not have a land inheritance like the other tribes, so they relied on portions of the offerings for their sustenance. This provision underscores the role of the priest as a mediator between God and the people, a role that is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our High Priest. The priest's portion also signifies the sharing of the benefits of atonement, as the priest represents the people before God.

who makes atonement with it.
The priest's role in making atonement is central to the sacrificial system. Atonement involves covering or cleansing sin, restoring the relationship between the sinner and God. The priest acts as an intermediary, performing the rituals that symbolize the removal of sin. This anticipates the work of Christ, who makes atonement for humanity through His sacrificial death and resurrection. The concept of atonement is foundational to understanding the nature of sin, the holiness of God, and the necessity of a mediator, ultimately pointing to the redemptive work of Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The priests are the descendants of Aaron, tasked with performing sacrifices and rituals in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. They serve as mediators between God and the people of Israel.

2. Guilt Offering
Also known as the trespass offering, this is a specific type of sacrifice in the Levitical system meant to atone for unintentional sins that require restitution.

3. Sin Offering
Another type of sacrifice, the sin offering is made to atone for sins committed unintentionally, emphasizing purification and forgiveness.

4. Atonement
A central theme in Leviticus, atonement refers to the reconciliation between God and humanity, achieved through the sacrificial system.

5. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey through the wilderness, serving as the central place for sacrifices and offerings.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The concept of atonement in Leviticus underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God. It points to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ.

Role of the Priesthood
The priests' role in making atonement highlights the importance of mediation in the relationship between God and humanity, fulfilled in Christ as our High Priest.

Equality of Sin and Guilt Offerings
The equivalence of the sin and guilt offerings in Leviticus 7:7 emphasizes that all sin requires atonement, and God's provision is sufficient for all types of transgressions.

Restitution and Repentance
The guilt offering involves restitution, teaching us the importance of making amends and seeking forgiveness in our relationships with others.

Christ as Fulfillment
The sacrificial system in Leviticus foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice, encouraging believers to live in gratitude and obedience to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 7:7 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways do the sin and guilt offerings in Leviticus highlight the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?

3. How can understanding the concept of restitution in the guilt offering inform our approach to seeking forgiveness and making amends today?

4. What are some practical ways we can live in gratitude for Christ's ultimate sacrifice, as foreshadowed by the offerings in Leviticus?

5. How does the equivalence of the sin and guilt offerings in Leviticus 7:7 challenge our understanding of different types of sin and God's provision for forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
This chapter provides detailed instructions on the sin offering, highlighting its role in atonement and purification, similar to the guilt offering.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and points to Christ as the ultimate atonement for sin.

Isaiah 53
This prophetic chapter speaks of the Suffering Servant, whose sacrifice would fulfill the ultimate guilt offering for humanity's sins.