In the biblical narrative, the concept of redemption is richly illustrated through various typologies, one of which is the atonement-money. This typology is primarily found in the Old Testament and serves as a profound symbol of the redemptive work of God through Christ.

Atonement-Money in the Old Testament

The atonement-money is introduced in the Book of Exodus as part of the instructions given to Moses regarding the census of the Israelites. In Exodus 30:11-16, God commands Moses to collect a half-shekel as a ransom for each person counted in the census. This payment is described as an offering to the Lord to make atonement for their lives:

"When you take a census of the Israelites to number them, each man must pay the LORD a ransom for his life when he is counted, so that no plague will come upon them when they are numbered. Everyone who crosses over to those who are counted must pay a half shekel, according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs. This half shekel is an offering to the LORD." (Exodus 30:12-13)

The purpose of this atonement-money was to serve as a reminder of the Israelites' need for redemption and the cost associated with it. The payment was the same for everyone, rich or poor, signifying the equal need for atonement among all people. This uniformity underscores the biblical principle that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).

Symbolism and Significance

The atonement-money typifies the greater redemption that would be accomplished through Jesus Christ. Just as the half-shekel served as a ransom for the Israelites, Christ's sacrificial death serves as the ultimate ransom for humanity. The Apostle Peter echoes this concept in the New Testament, emphasizing that believers were redeemed not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19).

Furthermore, the atonement-money was used for the service of the Tabernacle, the dwelling place of God among His people. This foreshadows the work of Christ, who through His atoning sacrifice, made it possible for believers to become the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Theological Implications

The typology of atonement-money highlights several key theological themes:

1. Substitutionary Atonement: The payment of the half-shekel represents the concept of substitution, where something is given in place of another. This prefigures the substitutionary atonement of Christ, who gave His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).

2. Universal Need for Redemption: The equal payment required from every individual signifies the universal need for redemption. It points to the biblical truth that all humanity is in need of salvation, which is freely offered through Christ.

3. Divine Ownership and Sovereignty: The requirement of atonement-money underscores God's ownership over His people and His sovereign right to demand a ransom. It reflects the biblical teaching that believers are bought with a price and belong to God.

In summary, the atonement-money serves as a powerful typology of redemption, pointing forward to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ. It illustrates the cost of redemption, the need for a substitute, and the equal standing of all people before God in their need for salvation.Exodus 30:12-15
When you take the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul to the LORD, when you number them; that there be no plague among them, when you number them.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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