Definition and Concept:
Atonement in the biblical context refers to the reconciliation between God and humanity, achieved through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The concept of seeking atonement involves the acknowledgment of sin, repentance, and the acceptance of God's provision for forgiveness and reconciliation.

Old Testament Background:
In the Old Testament, atonement is primarily associated with the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. The Hebrew word for atonement, "kaphar," means to cover or to make reconciliation. The Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur, was the most significant day for seeking atonement, as described in Leviticus 16. On this day, the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people. Leviticus 16:30 states, "For on this day atonement will be made for you to cleanse you, and you will be clean from all your sins before the LORD."

The Role of Sacrifices:
Sacrifices were central to the atonement process in the Old Testament. The blood of animals, such as bulls and goats, was used to symbolically cover the sins of the people. Hebrews 9:22 highlights this principle: "According to the law, in fact, nearly everything must be purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness."

New Testament Fulfillment:
The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system through Jesus Christ. Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as "the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). The Apostle Paul explains in Romans 3:25 , "God presented Him as an atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand."

Repentance and Faith:
Seeking atonement in the New Testament involves repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Acts 3:19 urges, "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away." Faith in Christ's atoning work is essential for reconciliation with God. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."

The Role of Confession:
Confession of sins is an important aspect of seeking atonement. 1 John 1:9 assures believers, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Confession is an acknowledgment of one's sins and a step towards receiving God's forgiveness.

Ongoing Atonement:
While Christ's sacrifice is once and for all, believers are called to live in a state of ongoing repentance and faith. Hebrews 10:14 states, "For by a single offering He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified." This indicates that while the atonement is complete, the process of sanctification continues in the life of a believer.

Conclusion:
The biblical concept of seeking atonement is deeply rooted in the sacrificial system of the Old Testament and finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament through Jesus Christ. It involves repentance, faith, and confession, leading to reconciliation with God and a transformed life.