Leviticus 4:20

He shall offer this bull just as he did the bull for the sin offering; in this way the priest will make atonement on their behalf, and they will be forgiven.

Study Bible

He shall offer this bull
The phrase "He shall offer this bull" refers to the specific instructions given to the priest regarding the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "offer" is "qarab," which means to bring near or present. This act of offering signifies the approach of the sinner to God through the mediation of the priest. The bull, a valuable and significant animal, represents the seriousness of sin and the costliness of atonement. In the ancient Near Eastern context, bulls were often used in religious rituals, symbolizing strength and vitality. The offering of a bull underscores the gravity of sin and the need for a substantial sacrifice to restore the relationship between God and His people.

just as he did the bull of the sin offering
This phrase emphasizes the consistency and precision required in the sacrificial rituals. The "bull of the sin offering" refers to a specific type of sacrifice outlined earlier in Leviticus, which was intended to atone for unintentional sins of the community or the high priest. The Hebrew term for "sin offering" is "chattat," which denotes purification from sin. The repetition of the ritual highlights the importance of following God's commands exactly as prescribed, reflecting His holiness and the need for order in worship. Historically, this meticulous approach to sacrifice served to teach the Israelites about the seriousness of sin and the necessity of obedience to God's law.

In this way the priest will make atonement for them
The role of the priest is central in this phrase, as he acts as the mediator between God and the people. The Hebrew word for "atonement" is "kaphar," which means to cover or to make reconciliation. The priest's actions symbolize the covering of sin, allowing the people to be reconciled with God. This concept of atonement is foundational in the Old Testament, foreshadowing the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ. The priest's intercession points to the need for a mediator, a role perfectly fulfilled by Christ in the New Testament. The historical context of the priesthood in Israel underscores the importance of having a dedicated and consecrated individual to perform these sacred duties.

and they will be forgiven
The promise of forgiveness is the culmination of the sacrificial process. The Hebrew word for "forgiven" is "salach," which conveys the idea of pardon or sparing. This assurance of forgiveness reflects God's mercy and grace towards His people, despite their transgressions. In the broader scriptural context, forgiveness is a recurring theme, highlighting God's desire for a restored relationship with humanity. The sacrificial system, with its promise of forgiveness, points forward to the New Covenant, where forgiveness is fully realized through the sacrifice of Jesus. This phrase offers hope and assurance to believers, reminding them of God's willingness to forgive and restore those who come to Him in repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is the mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals to atone for the sins of the congregation.

2. Bull of the Sin Offering
A sacrificial animal used in the sin offering, symbolizing the substitutionary atonement for the sins of the people.

3. Atonement
The process by which reconciliation between God and humanity is achieved, primarily through the sacrificial system in the Old Testament.

4. Forgiveness
The divine act of pardoning sin, which is granted after the proper sacrificial rituals are performed.

5. Israelite Congregation
The community of God's chosen people, for whom the sin offering is made to atone for unintentional sins.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest acts as an intermediary, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate role as our High Priest who intercedes on our behalf.

The Significance of Atonement
Atonement is central to restoring the relationship between God and humanity, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the need for divine forgiveness.

The Necessity of Sacrifice
The sacrificial system underscores the cost of sin and the necessity of a substitute, pointing to Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

Forgiveness and Restoration
God's provision for forgiveness through the sacrificial system demonstrates His desire for reconciliation and restoration with His people.

Continuity of God's Grace
The principles of atonement and forgiveness in Leviticus find their fulfillment in the New Testament, showing the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 4:20 foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

2. In what ways does the concept of atonement in Leviticus help us understand the significance of Christ's sacrifice on the cross?

3. How can we apply the principles of confession and forgiveness found in Leviticus 4:20 to our daily lives, as seen in 1 John 1:9?

4. What does the requirement of a sin offering teach us about the nature of sin and the holiness of God?

5. How does the process of atonement and forgiveness in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of God's grace and mercy in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and how it points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides a more perfect atonement.

1 John 1:9
This verse emphasizes the promise of forgiveness and cleansing from sin when we confess, highlighting the continuity of God's grace from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance illustrates the heart attitude that should accompany the ritual of atonement, emphasizing the importance of a contrite spirit.