Leviticus 14:31

one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering, together with the grain offering. In this way the priest will make atonement before the LORD for the one to be cleansed.

Study Bible

one as a sin offering
The sin offering in Leviticus is a crucial aspect of the sacrificial system, designed to atone for unintentional sins and restore the sinner to a right relationship with God. This offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for purification. The sin offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of humanity, fulfilling the law's requirements and providing a way for complete atonement.

and the other as a burnt offering
The burnt offering represents total dedication and surrender to God, as the entire animal is consumed by fire. This offering signifies the worshiper's desire to be wholly devoted to the LORD. In the New Testament, this is mirrored in the call for believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). The burnt offering also prefigures Christ's complete obedience and sacrifice, as He offered Himself entirely for the redemption of mankind.

together with the grain offering
The grain offering, often accompanying burnt and sin offerings, symbolizes thanksgiving and acknowledgment of God's provision. It consists of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, representing the fruit of human labor and God's blessings. This offering highlights the importance of gratitude and reliance on God for sustenance. In the New Testament, Jesus is the Bread of Life, fulfilling the spiritual nourishment symbolized by the grain offering.

In this way the priest will make atonement
The role of the priest is central in the atonement process, acting as a mediator between God and the people. The priest's actions foreshadow the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who makes atonement for humanity through His sacrificial death and resurrection. The concept of atonement involves reconciliation and the removal of sin's barrier, restoring fellowship with God.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" emphasizes the presence and holiness of God in the sacrificial process. It signifies that the offerings are made directly to God, who is the ultimate judge and recipient of worship. This underscores the need for purity and reverence in approaching God, a theme that runs throughout Scripture.

for the one to be cleansed
The cleansing process in Leviticus 14 pertains to those healed from skin diseases, symbolizing the removal of impurity and restoration to the community. This physical cleansing points to the spiritual cleansing available through Christ, who purifies believers from sin and restores them to fellowship with God. The theme of cleansing is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are washed and sanctified through the blood of Jesus (1 John 1:7).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest acts as a mediator between God and the people, performing the rituals necessary for atonement and cleansing.

2. The One to be Cleansed
This refers to the individual who has been afflicted with a skin disease (often translated as leprosy) and is seeking ritual purification.

3. Sin Offering
A sacrifice made to atone for sin, symbolizing the removal of sin and impurity.

4. Burnt Offering
A sacrifice that is completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God.

5. Grain Offering
An offering of flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing thanksgiving and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of Sacrifice in Atonement
Sacrifices in the Old Testament were essential for atonement, pointing to the need for a mediator between God and humanity.

Symbolism of Offerings
Each offering (sin, burnt, grain) has a specific purpose and symbolism, reflecting aspects of repentance, dedication, and thanksgiving.

God’s Provision for All
The allowance for different types of offerings based on economic status shows God's inclusivity and care for all individuals.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus Christ fulfills the sacrificial system, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sin, rendering the old system obsolete.

Holistic Cleansing
The process of cleansing in Leviticus is both physical and spiritual, reminding us of the comprehensive nature of God's redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:31 foreshadow the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways do the different offerings (sin, burnt, grain) reflect aspects of our relationship with God today?

3. How does the provision for different economic statuses in the sacrificial system demonstrate God's justice and mercy?

4. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure our lives reflect the holistic cleansing and dedication symbolized by the offerings in Leviticus 14:31?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 5:7-10
This passage outlines the offerings for those who cannot afford a lamb, showing God's provision for all economic statuses.

Hebrews 10:1-18
Discusses how the sacrifices of the Old Testament were a shadow of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides complete atonement.

Mark 1:40-45
Jesus heals a leper, demonstrating His authority over impurity and His role as the ultimate High Priest.