Numbers 28:22

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

Study Bible

Include
The directive to "include" signifies the importance of completeness in the sacrificial system. In the Hebrew context, the word used here implies an addition or incorporation, ensuring that nothing is left out of the prescribed offerings. This reflects God's desire for His people to follow His commands fully, emphasizing obedience and attention to detail in worship.

one male goat
The "one male goat" is significant in the sacrificial system as it represents a specific type of offering. In Hebrew, the term for goat often symbolizes sin and atonement. The choice of a male goat underscores the idea of strength and purity, as male animals were often considered more valuable in ancient sacrificial practices. This reflects the seriousness of sin and the need for a worthy sacrifice to address it.

as a sin offering
The "sin offering" is a critical component of the Levitical sacrificial system. In Hebrew, the term for sin offering (חַטָּאת, chatat) is directly linked to the concept of purification and atonement. This offering was specifically designed to address unintentional sins and restore the relationship between the Israelites and God. It highlights the gravity of sin and the necessity of a sacrificial system to maintain holiness and fellowship with God.

to make atonement
The phrase "to make atonement" is central to understanding the purpose of the sin offering. The Hebrew word for atonement (כָּפַר, kaphar) means to cover or to reconcile. This reflects the theological concept that sin creates a barrier between humanity and God, and atonement is necessary to bridge that gap. The act of atonement is a divine provision for restoring the broken relationship caused by sin, pointing ultimately to the work of Christ as the ultimate atonement.

for you
The phrase "for you" personalizes the sacrificial act, indicating that the atonement is not just a communal or abstract concept but is intended for each individual. It underscores the personal responsibility of each Israelite to seek reconciliation with God. This personal aspect of atonement foreshadows the New Testament teaching of individual salvation through Jesus Christ, who offers Himself as a personal Savior for each believer.

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 specific instructions on how to worship and make atonement for their sins through sacrifices.

3. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice commanded by God to atone for sins, symbolizing the need for purification and forgiveness.

4. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where sacrifices were made.

5. Atonement
The process of making amends or reparation for sin, which in the Old Testament was achieved through prescribed sacrifices.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Atonement
The sin offering in Numbers 28:22 underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. It reminds us that sin separates us from God and requires a means of reconciliation.

Symbolism of the Sacrifice
The male goat as a sin offering symbolizes the transfer of sin and the need for a substitute. This points forward to Jesus Christ, who became the ultimate sin offering for humanity.

God’s Provision for Forgiveness
The provision of a sin offering demonstrates God's desire to forgive and restore His people. It encourages us to seek God's forgiveness through the means He has provided.

Continuity and Fulfillment in Christ
The sacrificial system in the Old Testament finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Understanding this connection helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's sacrifice and the completeness of His atonement.

Living a Life of Repentance
The practice of offering a sin offering calls believers to live a life of continual repentance and reliance on God's grace, recognizing our ongoing need for His mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 28:22 help us understand the seriousness of sin in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the sacrificial system in the Old Testament point to the work of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of atonement in our daily walk with God, especially in light of 1 John 1:9?

4. What does the requirement of a male goat as a sin offering teach us about the nature of substitutionary atonement?

5. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus and influence our worship today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and points to Christ as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the New Testament understanding of confession and forgiveness, showing the continuity and fulfillment of the need for atonement through Jesus.