Leviticus 5:13 – “In this way the priest will make atonement for them for any of these sins they have committed, and they will be forgiven. The rest of the offering will belong to the priest, as in the case of the grain offering.”

Extended Explanation

Leviticus 5:13 concludes the instructions regarding the sin offerings for those who cannot afford more expensive sacrifices. This verse emphasizes the role of the priest in making atonement on behalf of the sinner. Once the prescribed offering—whether it be an animal or, in the case of the poor, flour—is made, the priest conducts the ritual, and atonement is achieved. The person’s sin is forgiven, and they are restored to a right relationship with God. Additionally, the verse mentions that the remainder of the offering, after atonement, is given to the priest, which was a provision for the priest’s sustenance.

Historical Context

In ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was essential for maintaining a right relationship with God. The system provided specific offerings for different situations, and the priests played a crucial role in mediating between the people and God. The mention that the rest of the offering would belong to the priest reflects the practical reality that the priests relied on these offerings for their livelihood. They did not have land of their own, so the portions of offerings given to them were part of how they were supported. This system also highlighted the communal aspect of worship, where the people supported the priests who, in turn, facilitated their atonement and worship.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Leviticus 5:13 underlines the grace and forgiveness that God offers to those who seek atonement. The priest’s role in making atonement points to the necessity of mediation between God and humanity. This mediation was necessary because sin created a barrier between people and God, which required a priestly intercessor to remove. The promise of forgiveness in this verse reassures believers that when they come to God with a sincere heart and follow His prescribed way, their sins will be forgiven. The concept of atonement in this verse also foreshadows the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, the perfect mediator between God and humanity.

Literary Analysis

Leviticus 5:13 serves as the conclusion of the instructions on sin offerings, wrapping up the process with a focus on the results—atonement and forgiveness. The structure of the verse is clear and direct, providing a sense of closure to the ritual described in the preceding verses. The phrase “they will be forgiven” is crucial, offering assurance to the sinner that their guilt has been removed. The reference to the remainder of the offering being given to the priest ties this sin offering to other types of offerings, showing continuity in the sacrificial system and emphasizing the priests’ role in the community.

Biblical Cross-References

The concept of atonement and forgiveness through sacrifice is a theme throughout the Bible. Leviticus 17:11 reinforces the importance of blood in making atonement, stating that “the life of a creature is in the blood.” This idea is carried forward into the New Testament, particularly in Hebrews 9:22, which states, “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” The New Testament presents Jesus as the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16) and the perfect sacrifice, whose atonement is final and complete (Hebrews 10:12-14). The concept of priests receiving a portion of the offerings is also seen in Numbers 18:8-9, where God provides specific instructions regarding what portions of the offerings belong to the priests.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Leviticus 5:13 serves as a reminder of the assurance of forgiveness when we approach God with sincere repentance. Although we no longer rely on priests to mediate for us, the principle of coming to God in the way He has provided—through Jesus Christ—remains. This verse reassures us that forgiveness is always available when we come to God on His terms, and it encourages us to seek reconciliation with God whenever we sin. Additionally, it challenges us to support those who serve in ministry, recognizing that just as the priests were provided for through the offerings, those who dedicate their lives to serving God today also need support.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Leviticus 5:13 reflects God’s love through His provision of a way for forgiveness and restoration. God did not leave His people to bear the weight of their sins without hope; instead, He provided a clear and accessible path to forgiveness. This verse shows God’s desire to restore His people to a right relationship with Him and His willingness to forgive those who come to Him in repentance. The priest’s role in facilitating atonement demonstrates God’s love in action, as He established a system that allowed His people to live in harmony with Him despite their imperfections.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Leviticus 5:13 points forward to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ. While the priests of the Old Testament offered repeated sacrifices for the sins of the people, Jesus offered Himself as a single, perfect sacrifice, making atonement once and for all. Hebrews 10:14 states, “For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.” Jesus fulfills the role of both the priest and the sacrifice, providing a direct and complete way for humanity to be reconciled to God. His atonement is final, and through Him, we receive the full assurance of forgiveness.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does understanding the role of the priest in the Old Testament deepen your appreciation for Jesus as our High Priest?
2. In what ways can you approach God with the assurance that your sins will be forgiven through Jesus Christ?
3. How does this verse challenge you to think about the importance of supporting those who serve in ministry?
4. What does this verse teach you about God’s desire to forgive and restore His people?
5. How can you live in response to the complete and final atonement that Jesus has provided for your sins?

Leviticus 5:13 reminds us of the certainty of forgiveness through God’s provision for atonement, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. It calls us to approach God with confidence, knowing that through Jesus, our sins are forgiven, and our relationship with God is fully restored.