Numbers 29:5

Include one male goat as a sin offering to make atonement for you.

Study Bible

Include one male goat
In the sacrificial system of ancient Israel, the male goat was often used as a sin offering. The choice of a male goat is significant, as goats were common in the region and accessible for the Israelites. The male goat symbolizes strength and vitality, which are essential qualities for a sacrifice meant to cover sin. This specific animal was chosen by God to represent the people's sin and the need for atonement.

as a sin offering
The sin offering was a crucial part of the sacrificial system, designed to atone for unintentional sins and purify the people. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for a substitute to bear the penalty. The sin offering points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of humanity on the cross. Hebrews 10:1-4 explains that the law, including these offerings, was a shadow of the good things to come, fulfilled in Christ.

to make atonement for you
Atonement involves reconciliation between God and humanity, achieved through the shedding of blood. In the Old Testament, atonement was a temporary covering of sin, requiring repeated sacrifices. This foreshadows the perfect and final atonement made by Jesus, as described in Romans 3:25, where God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement through the shedding of His blood. The concept of atonement underscores God's holiness and justice, as well as His mercy and grace in providing a way for sinners to be reconciled to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including those concerning offerings.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were given these instructions to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice in the Old Testament, intended to atone for sin and restore the relationship between the people and God.

4. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites performed their sacrifices and offerings, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

5. Day of Atonement
A significant event in the Jewish calendar where offerings, including sin offerings, were made to atone for the sins of the people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The sin offering in Numbers 29:5 underscores the necessity of atonement for sin. It points to the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God.

Symbolism of the Goat
The male goat as a sin offering symbolizes the transfer of sin and the need for a substitute to bear the penalty, foreshadowing Christ's sacrifice.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The Old Testament sacrificial system finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the perfect and final sin offering. This highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Personal Reflection on Sin
Reflect on the gravity of sin in our lives and the need for continual repentance and reliance on Christ's atoning work.

Living in Grace
As believers, we are called to live in the grace provided by Christ's atonement, leading lives of gratitude, obedience, and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 29:5 help us understand the nature of sin and its consequences?

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

3. How can we apply the principle of atonement in our daily lives, particularly in our relationships with God and others?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out the grace and forgiveness we have received through Christ's atonement?

5. How do the teachings in Numbers 29:5 challenge us to view our own sin and the need for repentance and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on the sin offering, emphasizing its role in atonement and forgiveness.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of Old Testament sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sin offering.

Isaiah 53
Prophesies about the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many, connecting to the concept of atonement.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the New Testament understanding of confession and forgiveness through Jesus Christ, the ultimate atonement.