Numbers 29:31

Include one male goat as a sin offering, in addition to the regular burnt offering with its grain offering and drink offering.

Study Bible

Include one male goat as a sin offering
The use of a male goat as a sin offering is significant in the sacrificial system of ancient Israel. The goat symbolizes the removal of sin and impurity from the community, as seen in Leviticus 16 during the Day of Atonement. The male goat, specifically, is often associated with atonement for the leaders or the community as a whole. This offering underscores the need for purification and reconciliation with God, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. The sin offering points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

in addition to the regular burnt offering
The regular burnt offering, or "olah," was a daily sacrifice that symbolized the worshiper's total dedication to God. It was a continual reminder of the need for atonement and the worshiper's commitment to live a life pleasing to God. The inclusion of the sin offering alongside the regular burnt offering emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the sacrificial system, addressing both the need for atonement and the call to holiness. This dual aspect of sacrifice is fulfilled in Christ, who not only atones for sin but also calls believers to live a life of holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16).

with its grain offering
The grain offering, or "minchah," was an offering of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing the fruits of human labor and the dedication of one's work to God. It was an expression of gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision. The grain offering accompanied the burnt offering, signifying that worship involves both the spiritual and material aspects of life. This offering foreshadows the New Testament teaching that believers are to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

and drink offering
The drink offering, or "nesek," typically consisted of wine poured out at the altar, symbolizing the outpouring of one's life in service to God. It was an act of worship that complemented the other offerings, representing joy and thanksgiving. The drink offering is a precursor to the New Testament concept of being poured out as a drink offering, as Paul describes his own life in service to Christ (Philippians 2:17). This imagery points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood was poured out for the forgiveness of sins (Matthew 26:28).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including the sacrificial system outlined in Numbers.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given these specific instructions for worship and atonement.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where these offerings were made.

4. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice made to atone for unintentional sins, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God.

5. Feast of Tabernacles
The context of this verse, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar, celebrating God's provision and presence.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The sin offering in Numbers 29:31 underscores the necessity of atonement for sin. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The male goat as a sin offering symbolizes the transfer of sin and the need for a substitute. This foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice, which fulfills the law and provides eternal redemption.

Regular Worship and Sacrifice
The inclusion of the sin offering alongside regular burnt offerings highlights the importance of consistent worship and the acknowledgment of sin in our spiritual lives.

God's Provision for Sin
The sacrificial system demonstrates God's provision for dealing with sin, pointing to His desire for a holy people. Today, we rely on Christ's sacrifice and God's grace for our sanctification.

Celebration and Reflection
The context of the Feast of Tabernacles encourages us to celebrate God's provision and reflect on His faithfulness, both in the past and present.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 29:31 help us understand the nature of sin and the need for atonement in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the sacrificial system in the Old Testament point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ? How can this deepen our appreciation for His work on the cross?

3. How can we incorporate regular confession and acknowledgment of sin into our spiritual practices, as seen in the regular offerings mentioned in this passage?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Feast of Tabernacles about celebrating God's provision and presence in our lives?

5. How do the principles of atonement and sacrifice in Numbers 29:31 connect with New Testament teachings on grace and forgiveness? How can these connections impact our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on the sin offering, emphasizing the need for atonement and the role of the priest in the sacrificial system.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the promise of forgiveness and cleansing from sin through confession, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to New Testament grace.