Leviticus 7:1

"Now this is the law of the guilt offering, which is most holy:

Study Bible

Now this is the law of the guilt offering
The guilt offering, also known as the trespass offering, is a specific type of sacrifice in the Levitical system. It is distinct from the sin offering and is primarily concerned with restitution and compensation for wrongs committed, particularly those involving the desecration of holy things or violations against others that require restitution. This offering underscores the importance of making amends and the need for reconciliation with God and fellow humans. The Hebrew term for guilt offering, "asham," implies a sense of guilt and the need for atonement. This offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who made restitution for humanity's sins.

which is most holy
The designation "most holy" indicates the highest level of sanctity within the sacrificial system. This status is reserved for offerings that are directly related to atonement and reconciliation with God. The priests were required to handle these offerings with utmost care and reverence, reflecting the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. The concept of holiness is central to Leviticus, emphasizing the separation between the sacred and the profane. This phrase also points to the holiness of Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system, being both the perfect priest and the perfect sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Aaron and His Sons
The priests who were responsible for performing the sacrifices and offerings as outlined in the Levitical laws.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God and where the offerings were made.

4. The Israelites
The chosen people of God who were given the laws to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

5. The Guilt Offering
A specific type of offering made to atone for certain sins, particularly those involving desecration of holy things or unintentional sins against God's commandments.

Teaching Points

Understanding Holiness
The guilt offering is described as "most holy," emphasizing the sacredness of atonement and the seriousness of sin. Believers are called to recognize the holiness of God and the gravity of sin in their lives.

Restitution and Repentance
The guilt offering involved making restitution for wrongs committed. This teaches the importance of not only seeking forgiveness but also making amends where possible.

Foreshadowing Christ
The guilt offering points to Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice for sin. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for His atoning work on the cross.

Living in Obedience
The detailed laws of offerings remind us of the importance of living in obedience to God's commands, reflecting a heart that seeks to honor Him.

Community and Accountability
The communal aspect of the offerings highlights the role of community in spiritual growth and accountability, encouraging believers to support one another in their walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the guilt offering in Leviticus 7:1 help us understand the nature of sin and its consequences?

2. In what ways does the guilt offering foreshadow the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how does this enhance our understanding of His work on the cross?

3. What practical steps can we take to make restitution for wrongs we have committed, in light of the principles found in the guilt offering?

4. How can we cultivate a deeper sense of God's holiness in our daily lives, as reflected in the description of the guilt offering as "most holy"?

5. How does the communal aspect of the offerings in Leviticus encourage us to engage with our church community in matters of accountability and spiritual growth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 5:14-19
Provides further details on the guilt offering, including the types of sins it covers and the process for making restitution.

Isaiah 53:10
Refers to the suffering servant as a guilt offering, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of this offering in Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 10:1-18
Discusses how the sacrifices of the Old Testament, including the guilt offering, were a shadow of the perfect sacrifice of Jesus.

1 John 1:9
Emphasizes the importance of confession and forgiveness, which is foundational to the concept of the guilt offering.

Romans 3:23-25
Highlights the universality of sin and the provision of atonement through Jesus, connecting to the purpose of the guilt offering.