Leviticus 9:7 – “Moses said to Aaron, ‘Come to the altar and sacrifice your sin offering and your burnt offering and make atonement for yourself and the people; sacrifice the offering that is for the people and make atonement for them, as the Lord has commanded.'”
Extended Explanation
Leviticus 9:7 marks a significant moment in the priestly duties of Aaron, the first high priest of Israel. In this verse, Moses instructs Aaron to come to the altar to offer both a sin offering and a burnt offering. The purpose of these offerings was to make atonement first for Aaron himself and then for the people of Israel. The process of atonement was essential because it addressed the sin that separated people from God, allowing them to be reconciled with Him.
The sin offering was specifically for the forgiveness of sins, acknowledging the need for purification before God. Aaron, despite being the high priest, was not exempt from the need for atonement; he had to offer a sacrifice for his own sins before he could intercede for the people. The burnt offering, which was wholly consumed by fire, symbolized complete surrender and dedication to God.
Moses’ instructions underscore the importance of following God’s commands exactly as given. The offerings were not just rituals; they were acts of obedience that allowed the people to maintain their relationship with a holy God.
Historical Context
Leviticus was written during the time the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. The tabernacle had been constructed as the place where God would dwell among His people, and the sacrificial system was established to maintain the relationship between a holy God and His people.
Leviticus 9 records the first official act of Aaron and his sons as priests. After their consecration, they were required to perform the sacrifices that would atone for their sins and the sins of the people. This chapter is significant because it shows the beginning of the priestly ministry in Israel, a ministry that was central to the nation’s worship and relationship with God.
Theological Implications
Leviticus 9:7 highlights the necessity of atonement for sin and the role of the priest as a mediator between God and the people. The need for Aaron to first make atonement for himself before offering sacrifices for the people emphasizes that even the most religious or pious individuals are not exempt from the need for forgiveness. This concept of atonement points to the broader theological theme of the human need for reconciliation with God.
Furthermore, this verse points to the seriousness of sin and the need for a mediator. The sacrificial system was a temporary solution, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice that would come through Jesus Christ, the perfect High Priest who would make atonement once and for all.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 9:7 is structured as a direct command from Moses to Aaron, emphasizing the authority of Moses as God’s spokesperson and the necessity of Aaron’s obedience. The repetition of the word “atonement” underscores its importance in the passage. The verse is also framed to show a sequence—first, Aaron must deal with his own sin before he can address the sins of the people, highlighting the personal responsibility each person has before God.
The phrase “as the Lord has commanded” at the end of the verse reinforces the importance of adhering to God’s instructions. This is not a moment for improvisation or personal interpretation; it is about following God’s exact commands to ensure that the atonement is effective and acceptable to God.
Biblical Cross-References
- Hebrews 5:1-3: Describes how every high priest is chosen to offer sacrifices for sins, including his own, pointing to the need for atonement even for those in spiritual leadership.
- Leviticus 16:6: On the Day of Atonement, Aaron had to offer a bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household before he could make atonement for the people.
- Hebrews 7:27: Contrasts the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament priests with the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus, who does not need to offer sacrifices for His own sins because He is sinless.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Leviticus 9:7 serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. While we no longer rely on animal sacrifices, the principle remains that sin separates us from God and must be addressed. Jesus Christ, our perfect High Priest, has made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, offering complete and final atonement.
This verse also reminds us of the importance of approaching God with a heart that acknowledges our need for forgiveness. Just as Aaron had to make atonement for himself before ministering on behalf of the people, we too must be mindful of our own spiritual condition as we seek to serve others.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 9:7 reveals God’s love in His provision for atonement. God did not leave the Israelites in their sin without a way to be reconciled to Him. The sacrificial system was a temporary measure that allowed them to maintain a relationship with God, pointing forward to the ultimate expression of God’s love—Jesus Christ. God’s commands regarding atonement were not about burdening the people with rituals but about providing a means for them to experience His forgiveness and presence.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Leviticus 9:7 directly connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest and the perfect sacrifice. While Aaron had to make atonement for his own sins before he could intercede for the people, Jesus, being sinless, did not need to offer a sacrifice for Himself. Instead, He offered Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice for the sins of humanity. Hebrews 9:12-14 explains that Jesus entered the heavenly tabernacle not with the blood of animals but with His own blood, securing eternal redemption.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to think about your need for atonement and forgiveness?
- In what ways can you ensure that you are spiritually prepared before serving others?
- How does understanding Jesus as our High Priest deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of obedience to God’s commands?
This verse encourages us to reflect on the seriousness of sin, the necessity of atonement, and the fulfillment of these truths in Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate High Priest and mediator.