Leviticus 16: Facing Temptation
"I HAVEN'T SINNED for seventeen years," says one fervent Christian. "I sin every day," says another, equally fervent. These two Christians may define sin differently, but each knows the insistent battle of temptation. One knows the constant guardedness it takes to resist a small lie, a cutting remark, an inclination to laziness. The other knows the equally constant wash of God's grace as confession assures forgiveness and a continued walk with Christ. But no matter how we view sin, temptation is a battle for us all. And guilt often results from our battles with sin.
Warming Up to God
Sit quietly before God. What have you felt guilty about recently? Talk to God about it.
Read Leviticus 16. »
Discovering the Word
- As you visualize all that was to happen on the Day of Atonement, what pictures remind you that God is holy and that he expects holiness from his people?
- What personal preparation was Aaron to make for his work of atonement (vv. 1-14)?
- What did this preparation symbolize about Aaron and his role before God and the people?
- How is each sacrificial goat a visual symbol of sin (vv. 7-10, 15-19, 20-24)?
- What practical good could come from this method of atoning for sin?
Applying the Word
- Imagine yourself as a Hebrew of this era. How do you think you would feel on the days just before and just after the Day of Atonement?
- What do you do when you feel guilty about something?
Responding in Prayer
If this study points to sin that needs to be confessed, do so now. If you have already done this, ask God to help you experience his forgiveness.
For Further Study
Forgiveness by Douglas Connelly