His Word is a Lamp: Leviticus

“Why would God require bloodshed for the forgiveness of sin?” That’s a good question! Why would a holy God demand such a thing? The answer is found in Leviticus 17:11. “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.” 
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So, we see here two things (among many observations that could be made):

• “The life of the flesh is in the blood”: Life was needed to make the payment because it was covering an act of death. That’s what sin is- an act of death that needs atonement. It had to be a sacrifice that was pure and spotless that covered these acts of transgression. Anyone that is sinful cannot pay for their own sin because they are already blemished. 

• God gave it on the altar. This was expressly for the atonement of our souls. God is the giver of life and is gracious in His provision for our souls that were lost and dead due to sin. He gave a way in Leviticus for the people to find forgiveness. Confession had to be a part of this as was associating oneself with the sacrifice by putting their hand on the head of the animal that was being sacrificed. 

The author of Hebrews refers to this in verse 9:22b, when it states, “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” Also, the author of Hebrews tells us that there had to be a better way. “But in these sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.” Heb. 10:3-4
Jesus is that better way! He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He laid down His life for us and poured out His blood for us in the payment of our sins.

Let us then make our confession of faith in Him and let us hold on to that good confession!

May His Word continue to be Lamp for your feet!
Pastor Andy 

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