The atonement involved two goats (vs. 7-10). The first goat was slaughtered for the sin offering (v. 15) while the second goat, the scapegoat, was kept alive. The two goats represented two ways God was dealing with the sin of the Israelites. Their sins were forgiven by the blood of the first goat sprinkled on the altar (vs. 18-19) while their guilt was removed by the scapegoat that was sent into the wilderness alive (vs. 20-22). These served as pointers to the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on our behalf (Isaiah 53:4-6, 10-12).
Note that the atonement rituals were to be repeated every year (v. 34), but by Christ's death, our sins were forgiven and our guilt was removed once and for all (Romans 8:1; Hebrews 10:14).
What were the two things the people were to do on this day (vs. 29-31)? To access the full benefits of Christ's atonement for us, we also need to be sober, confess our sins and repent from them. We need to rest from all our works of righteousness, knowing that our salvation is solely by faith through grace. (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Now Jesus Christ has removed your sins by his blood and taken your guilt upon him and had them nailed to the cross. Need you go back to them?
Thank you, Lord, for giving your life as an atoning sacrifice for me. Help me to show my appreciation by completely yielding my life to you.
©Scripture Union Nigeria
REMAIN BLESSED!
