Leviticus 5:10 – “The priest shall then offer the other as a burnt offering in the prescribed way and make atonement for them for the sin they have committed, and they will be forgiven.”

Extended Explanation

Leviticus 5:10 explains the final step in the process of making atonement for sin under the Old Testament law. After the sin offering has been made, the priest is instructed to offer a burnt offering, following the specific procedures given by God. This burnt offering is an act of worship and dedication to God. The verse then assures the individual that through these offerings, atonement is made for their sin, and they are forgiven. This process demonstrates God’s provision for dealing with sin and restoring the sinner to a right relationship with Him.

Historical Context

In the context of ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was central to their relationship with God. Sin offerings and burnt offerings were part of the broader system of sacrifices that God instituted to help the Israelites maintain their holiness and purity before Him. The sin offering dealt with the specific guilt of the individual, while the burnt offering symbolized the worshiper’s complete dedication to God. The priest played a crucial role as the mediator between the people and God, performing the sacrifices according to God’s instructions to ensure that the atonement was made correctly and effectively.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Leviticus 5:10 highlights several key principles. First, it underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. Sin creates a barrier between humanity and God, and atonement is required to remove that barrier. Second, the verse emphasizes the importance of obedience in the process of atonement. The priest had to follow the prescribed way of offering the sacrifice, showing that God’s instructions are not arbitrary but are designed to teach His people about His holiness and their need for redemption. Finally, the promise of forgiveness in this verse reveals God’s mercy and His desire to restore sinners to fellowship with Him.

Literary Analysis

Leviticus 5:10 is part of a detailed legal and ritual section in the book of Leviticus that outlines the various offerings required for different types of sins. The verse follows a pattern of instruction that is both prescriptive and descriptive, detailing the actions the priest must take and the results of those actions. The phrase “in the prescribed way” indicates the importance of following God’s commands precisely, while the promise “they will be forgiven” provides assurance to the worshiper that their sin has been dealt with and their relationship with God restored. The verse serves as both a command and a promise, reflecting the dual nature of the sacrificial system as a means of both obedience and grace.

Biblical Cross-References

The concept of atonement and forgiveness through sacrifice is a theme that runs throughout the Bible. In Leviticus 17:11, God explains that “the life of a creature is in the blood,” and it is the blood that makes atonement for sin. This principle is carried forward into the New Testament, where Jesus is described as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. Hebrews 10:12-14 explains that Jesus offered one sacrifice for sins forever, making those who are sanctified perfect. This connection between the Old Testament sacrifices and the sacrifice of Jesus highlights the continuity of God’s plan for redemption.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Leviticus 5:10 serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of sin and the incredible gift of forgiveness that we receive through Jesus Christ. While we no longer need to offer animal sacrifices, the principle of atonement still applies. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross fulfilled the requirements of the law, offering complete and final atonement for all who believe in Him. This verse encourages us to approach God with gratitude for the forgiveness we have received and to live lives that reflect our commitment to Him. It also reminds us of the importance of obedience to God’s Word and the assurance that we are forgiven when we come to Him in faith.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Leviticus 5:10 reflects God’s love in His provision for forgiveness and restoration. God did not leave His people without a way to deal with their sins; instead, He provided a clear and effective means of atonement through the sacrificial system. This provision shows God’s desire to be in a relationship with His people and His willingness to forgive when they come to Him in repentance and faith. The verse also reveals God’s patience and mercy, as He offers forgiveness even when His people fall short of His standards. This loving character of God is ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Leviticus 5:10 points directly to the work of Jesus Christ on the cross. The sacrificial system described in Leviticus was a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make. Just as the priest offered the burnt offering to make atonement for sin, Jesus offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice, once and for all, to atone for the sins of the world. Hebrews 9:26 states that Christ “has appeared once for all at the culmination of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself.” Through Jesus, the forgiveness promised in Leviticus is made available to all who believe, providing a complete and eternal atonement that the Old Testament sacrifices pointed toward.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system deepen your appreciation for Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross?
2. In what ways can you live in response to the forgiveness and atonement provided by Jesus?
3. What does this verse teach you about the importance of obedience and following God’s instructions?
4. How does the assurance of forgiveness in this verse affect your relationship with God?
5. How can you express gratitude for the atonement Jesus has made on your behalf?

Leviticus 5:10 reminds us of the serious nature of sin and the incredible gift of forgiveness that we receive through Jesus Christ. It challenges us to live in gratitude for the atonement He provided and to walk in obedience to God’s Word, knowing that through Jesus, we are forgiven and restored to a right relationship with God.