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 someone sins
The Hebrew word for "sins" here is "חָטָא" (chata), which means to miss the mark or to err. In the context of Leviticus, sin is not just a moral failing but a breach of the covenant relationship with God. This phrase underscores the universality of sin, acknowledging that all people are prone to error and in need of atonement. It reflects the human condition and the need for divine grace and forgiveness.

and becomes aware
The phrase "becomes aware" is translated from the Hebrew "נוֹדַע" (nodah), which implies a realization or coming to knowledge. This suggests that sin is not always immediately apparent to the sinner, highlighting the importance of self-examination and the role of the community in bringing awareness. It also points to the mercy of God, who provides a way for reconciliation once the sin is recognized.

of the sin he has committed
This phrase emphasizes personal responsibility. The Hebrew word for "committed" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to do or make. It indicates that sin is an action for which the individual is accountable. This accountability is crucial in the process of repentance and restoration, as it requires acknowledgment of one's actions before God.

he must bring
The requirement to "bring" an offering is a directive that involves active participation in the process of atonement. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) means to come or bring, signifying an approach to God. This act of bringing an offering is a physical demonstration of repentance and a desire to restore the broken relationship with God.

as his offering
The term "offering" is derived from the Hebrew "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which means something brought near. Offerings in Leviticus are not just about appeasement but about drawing near to God. This reflects the heart of worship and the desire for communion with the divine, emphasizing that offerings are a means to restore fellowship with God.

a female goat
The specification of "a female goat" (Hebrew: "שְׂעִירַת עִזִּים" - se'irat izzim) is significant in the sacrificial system. Female goats were considered valuable, and their use in offerings underscores the costliness of atonement. This points to the seriousness of sin and the need for a worthy sacrifice, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

without blemish
The requirement for the goat to be "without blemish" (Hebrew: "תָּמִים" - tamim) signifies purity and perfection. This reflects God's holiness and the standard required for atonement. It also prefigures the sinless nature of Christ, the perfect Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.

for the sin he has committed
Reiterating the personal nature of sin, this phrase emphasizes the need for individual atonement. The repetition of "sin he has committed" serves as a reminder of the gravity of sin and the necessity of addressing it directly. It highlights the personal relationship between the sinner and God, and the need for personal repentance and reconciliation.

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.