Numbers 15:28: “The priest is to make atonement before the Lord for the one who erred by sinning unintentionally, and when atonement has been made for them, they will be forgiven.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Numbers 15:28 explains the process of atonement for an individual who has sinned unintentionally. It emphasizes the role of the priest, who acts as the mediator between the sinner and God. The priest is responsible for making atonement on behalf of the person who has erred, presenting the required sacrifices to God. Once the atonement is made, the individual is forgiven.

This verse highlights that unintentional sins still require attention and reconciliation with God. Sin, whether intentional or not, disrupts our relationship with God, and this passage shows that God provides a way to address those disruptions. Forgiveness isn’t automatic; it involves recognizing the wrongdoing, bringing it before God, and receiving His grace through the prescribed process.

Historical Context

In the historical setting of Numbers, the Israelites were in the wilderness, guided by God’s laws through Moses. The priesthood, established with Aaron and his descendants, played a critical role in maintaining the spiritual health of the community. Priests were set apart to serve as mediators, offering sacrifices and making atonement on behalf of the people. This system allowed the Israelites to stay in right standing with God, even when they sinned unintentionally.

The sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament was detailed and specific, covering various types of sins and the corresponding offerings required. This verse focuses on the atonement process for unintentional sins, showing that God’s law addressed not just willful disobedience but also mistakes made out of ignorance or oversight. It reflects God’s desire to maintain a holy community where even unintended errors are corrected.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Numbers 15:28 underscores the importance of atonement and the seriousness of sin, even when it is unintentional. It teaches that sin, no matter how minor it seems, separates us from God and needs to be dealt with. This verse highlights the grace of God in providing a way for individuals to be forgiven and restored, emphasizing that forgiveness is not earned but granted through the proper means of atonement.

The role of the priest in this process reflects the need for mediation between humanity and God. It points to the reality that we cannot bridge the gap created by sin on our own; we need someone to intercede on our behalf. This is a foundational theme in the Bible, showing that God has always made provision for His people to be reconciled to Him through the actions of a mediator.

Literary Analysis

Literarily, Numbers 15:28 uses clear and purposeful language to describe the steps required for atonement. The focus on the priest’s role emphasizes that this was a formal and necessary process, not something to be taken lightly. The verse underscores the certainty of forgiveness with the phrase “they will be forgiven,” providing reassurance that when God’s instructions are followed, His mercy is assured.

The structure of the verse highlights the sequence of action: recognition of sin, atonement by the priest, and forgiveness from God. This order reflects the relational nature of the process, showing that forgiveness is not a one-sided act but involves both acknowledgment of the sin and acceptance of God’s grace. The clarity of this sequence helps the reader understand the connection between sin, atonement, and restoration.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

1. Leviticus 4:31 – Describes the process of making atonement for unintentional sins, similar to the instructions in Numbers.
2. Hebrews 7:25 – Highlights that Jesus is able to save completely those who come to God through Him because He always lives to intercede for them.
3. 1 John 2:1-2 – Speaks of Jesus as our advocate with the Father and the atoning sacrifice for our sins, reflecting the role of mediation in forgiveness.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Numbers 15:28 serves as a reminder that all sin, even those unintentional, needs to be brought before God. It encourages believers to be mindful of their actions and to seek God’s forgiveness with humility. This verse challenges us not to dismiss our mistakes but to recognize that God’s grace is available when we acknowledge our sins and come to Him.

This passage also speaks to the importance of having an advocate before God. Just as the priest interceded for the Israelites, Christians today have Jesus, who intercedes on our behalf. This connection reassures us that we are not left alone to deal with our failures; we have someone who stands in the gap for us, ensuring that forgiveness is always within reach.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Numbers 15:28 reflects a loving God who understands human imperfection and provides a way for His people to be forgiven. God’s provision for atonement shows His commitment to restoring the relationship whenever it is disrupted, even by unintentional sins. His love is seen in His willingness to forgive when the proper steps are taken, demonstrating His desire to keep His people close to Him.

God’s love is also evident in the role of the priest, who acts as a mediator, bringing the sinner’s offering before God and securing their forgiveness. This arrangement highlights that God is not distant or indifferent; He has put in place a system that actively seeks to restore and heal broken relationships. It’s a picture of a God who is deeply invested in the well-being of His people.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse connects directly to Jesus Christ, who fulfills the role of the priest in the ultimate sense. While the priests of the Old Testament made repeated sacrifices for sins, Jesus offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice once for all. Hebrews 9:11-12 explains that Christ entered the Most Holy Place by His own blood, obtaining eternal redemption. His sacrifice means that the process of atonement is no longer a repeated ritual but a completed act that offers permanent forgiveness.

Jesus’ role as our High Priest means that He continually intercedes for us, just as the priests did in the Old Testament. His atonement covers all sins—intentional and unintentional—providing a complete solution to the problem of sin. Through Christ, we have direct access to God’s mercy, ensuring that we are always forgiven when we come to Him with a repentant heart.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse encourage you to take your sins seriously, even when they are unintentional?
2. In what ways can you practice seeking God’s forgiveness regularly, acknowledging both known and unknown sins?
3. How does understanding the role of the priest in the Old Testament enhance your appreciation of Jesus’ role as our High Priest?
4. What comfort do you find in knowing that Jesus intercedes for you and provides a permanent atonement for all your sins?
5. How can you encourage others in your faith community to rely on God’s grace and seek forgiveness with confidence?

This article encourages Christians to recognize the need for atonement, the assurance of God’s forgiveness, and the complete and perfect mediation of Jesus Christ, who bridges the gap between us and God with His sacrificial love.