Leviticus 4:28

When he becomes aware of the sin he has committed, he must bring an unblemished female goat as his offering for that sin.

Study Bible

When he becomes aware of the sin he has committed
This phrase highlights the importance of awareness and acknowledgment of sin in the process of atonement. In the context of Leviticus, the Israelites were given laws to follow, and sin was often a result of ignorance or oversight. The moment of becoming aware signifies a turning point where the individual recognizes their transgression against God's commandments. This awareness is crucial as it initiates the process of repentance and reconciliation with God. In the New Testament, awareness of sin is also emphasized, as seen in Romans 3:20, where the law is said to bring knowledge of sin.

he must bring an unblemished female goat
The requirement for an unblemished female goat underscores the necessity of offering something pure and without defect to God. This reflects the holiness and perfection that God demands. The use of a female goat, as opposed to a male, may indicate the lesser severity of the sin compared to other offerings that required a male animal. The concept of an unblemished sacrifice is a type of Christ, who is described as the Lamb without blemish or defect in 1 Peter 1:19. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who was sinless and perfect.

as his offering for that sin
The offering serves as a tangible expression of repentance and a means to atone for the sin committed. In the sacrificial system, the offering was a substitutionary atonement, where the animal bore the penalty of the sin on behalf of the sinner. This practice points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once for all as the atonement for humanity's sins, as explained in Hebrews 10:10. The offering also reflects the seriousness with which God views sin and the necessity of making amends to restore the relationship between the sinner and God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Sinner
Refers to any individual within the Israelite community who unintentionally commits a sin against God's commandments.

2. The LORD's Commandments
The divine laws given to the Israelites, which outline how they are to live in obedience to God.

3. The Sin Offering
A female goat without blemish, which is to be brought as a sacrifice to atone for the unintentional sin.

4. The Tabernacle
The place where the sin offering is presented, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

5. The Priest
The mediator who performs the sacrificial ritual, facilitating the sinner's atonement and reconciliation with God.

Teaching Points

Understanding Unintentional Sin
Recognize that sin can be committed unintentionally, highlighting the importance of being aware of God's commandments and living a life of vigilance and obedience.

The Necessity of Atonement
Acknowledge the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, which in the Old Testament was through a sacrificial system, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

The Role of the Mediator
Reflect on the role of the priest as a mediator in the Old Testament, and how it foreshadows Christ as our ultimate High Priest who intercedes on our behalf.

The Call to Holiness
Embrace the call to holiness, understanding that God desires His people to live set apart, striving to follow His commandments in every aspect of life.

The Assurance of Forgiveness
Take comfort in the assurance of forgiveness through Christ, who fulfills the requirements of the law and offers grace and mercy to those who repent.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of unintentional sin in Leviticus 4:28 challenge our understanding of sin and accountability in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the requirement of a "female goat without blemish" as a sin offering point to the nature of Christ's sacrifice?

3. How can we apply the principle of seeking atonement for unintentional sins in our relationship with God today?

4. What role does confession and repentance play in our spiritual journey, as seen in both the Old and New Testaments?

5. How can we live out the call to holiness in a practical way, ensuring that we are aware of and aligned with God's commandments?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 5:15-19
Discusses the guilt offering for unintentional sins, emphasizing the need for restitution and atonement.

Hebrews 9:7
Highlights the role of the high priest in offering sacrifices for the sins of the people, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament sacrificial system.

1 John 1:9
Offers assurance of forgiveness and cleansing from sin through confession, connecting the Old Testament practice to New Testament grace.

Romans 3:23-24
Affirms that all have sinned and are justified freely by God's grace, linking the need for atonement to the work of Christ.