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

and the grain offering
The grain offering, known in Hebrew as "minchah," was a vital part of the sacrificial system in ancient Israel. It symbolized the dedication of the fruits of human labor to God, acknowledging His provision and sovereignty. The grain offering often accompanied burnt offerings, emphasizing the completeness of worship—both the spiritual and the material aspects of life are to be consecrated to God. Historically, this offering was a reminder of the agrarian lifestyle of the Israelites and their dependence on God's blessing for their sustenance.

and drink offerings
The drink offering, or "nesek" in Hebrew, involved the pouring out of wine, symbolizing the outpouring of one's life and spirit in devotion to God. This act of libation was a vivid representation of joy and thanksgiving, as wine was a symbol of celebration and abundance. In the broader scriptural context, the drink offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who poured out His life for humanity.

for the bulls, rams, and lambs
These animals were central to the sacrificial system, each representing different aspects of atonement and worship. Bulls, or "parim," were often used in sin offerings, symbolizing strength and the need for atonement for the community's sins. Rams, or "ayil," were associated with consecration and dedication, as seen in the ordination of priests. Lambs, or "kebes," were emblematic of innocence and purity, prefiguring Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. The use of these animals underscores the multifaceted nature of worship and atonement in the Old Testament.

according to the number prescribed
This phrase highlights the importance of order and obedience in worship. The specific numbers and types of offerings were not arbitrary but divinely ordained, reflecting God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence and precision. This meticulous attention to detail in worship serves as a reminder of the structured and intentional nature of our relationship with God. Historically, this reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where obedience to His commands was a sign of faithfulness and devotion.

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.