Leviticus 4:24

He is to lay his hand on the head of the goat and slaughter it at the place where the burnt offering is slaughtered before the LORD. It is a sin offering.

Study Bible

He is to lay his hand on the head of the goat
This act of laying hands symbolizes the transfer of sin from the individual to the animal. It signifies identification with the sacrifice, acknowledging the need for atonement. This practice is rooted in the ancient Near Eastern customs of transferring guilt or blessing through physical touch. It prefigures the laying of sins on Christ, the ultimate sin-bearer (Isaiah 53:6).

and slaughter it
The slaughtering of the goat represents the seriousness of sin and the necessity of bloodshed for atonement, as life is in the blood (Leviticus 17:11). This foreshadows the sacrificial death of Jesus, who was crucified for the sins of humanity (Hebrews 9:22).

at the place where the burnt offering is slaughtered
The location is significant, as it is the same place where burnt offerings, symbolizing complete dedication to God, are made. This indicates that the sin offering is also an act of worship and dedication. The centralization of sacrifice at the tabernacle underscores the importance of approaching God in the prescribed manner, pointing to Christ as the sole mediator (1 Timothy 2:5).

before the LORD
This phrase emphasizes that the act is done in the presence of God, highlighting His holiness and the need for purification to maintain fellowship with Him. It reflects the understanding that all sin is ultimately against God (Psalm 51:4).

It is a sin offering.
The sin offering is distinct from other offerings, specifically addressing unintentional sins and providing a means for reconciliation with God. It underscores the gravity of sin and the provision of grace through sacrifice. This offering typifies Christ's atoning work, who became sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
The individual responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals, acting as a mediator between the people and God.

2. The Goat
The animal used for the sin offering, symbolizing the transfer of sin from the person to the sacrifice.

3. The Altar
The designated place for sacrifices, representing the presence of God and the place of atonement.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who prescribes the sacrificial system for atonement and reconciliation.

5. The Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice intended to atone for unintentional sins and restore the relationship between the sinner and God.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest acts as an intermediary, highlighting the need for a mediator in our relationship with God. In the New Testament, Jesus is our High Priest, who intercedes on our behalf.

The Significance of the Sin Offering
The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who takes away the sins of the world.

The Act of Laying Hands
This act symbolizes the transfer of sin from the individual to the sacrifice. It reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our sins and the need for a substitute to bear our iniquities.

The Place of Sacrifice
The designated place for sacrifice signifies the holiness of God and the need for a specific approach to Him. It teaches us about the reverence and respect required in our worship and relationship with God.

The Continuity of God's Plan
The sacrificial system in Leviticus is part of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Christ's sacrifice. It encourages us to see the Bible as a unified account of redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 4:24 foreshadow the role of Jesus as our High Priest in the New Testament?

2. In what ways does the sin offering in Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

3. What is the significance of laying hands on the goat, and how can this practice inform our understanding of confession and repentance today?

4. How does the concept of a designated place for sacrifice in the Old Testament relate to the way we approach God in worship now?

5. How can understanding the sacrificial system in Leviticus enhance our appreciation of Christ's atoning work on the cross?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and how it points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides a perfect and eternal atonement.

Isaiah 53
The prophecy of the suffering servant, which foreshadows Christ as the ultimate sin offering, bearing the iniquities of humanity.

1 John 1:9
Emphasizes the confession of sins and God's faithfulness to forgive, connecting the Old Testament practice of atonement with New Testament teachings on forgiveness through Christ.