Last time we looked at the burnt offering, the grain offering and the peace offering. These were the foundational offerings in the OT sacrificial system.
The burnt offering – or "ascension offering" – was the foundation of the whole sacrificial system. It is called the "ascension" offering because the whole animal is burnt – and thus, the whole animal "ascends" up to God in smoke.
God alone consumed the burnt offering by fire, signifying that God alone can deal with sin.
God and the priest consumed the grain offering, signifying that we need a mediator who will bring peace with God. And God and the worshiper consumed the peace offering, signifying the peace that comes through the sacrifice.
We also saw that Leviticus does not go into detail regarding the meaning of these sacrifices. They were well known throughout the ancient world, and so there was no need to explain their meaning or significance.
But the sin offering and the guilt offering were different. These are unique in the ancient world. And for a good reason. The burnt offering, grain offering and peace offering were to be brought to God voluntarily. The sin and guilt offerings were mandatory. If you committed certain sins, you had to bring these offerings. This reminded Israel that it is not enough for the priests to offer sacrifices daily. If you have sinned, you need to deal with it.
Let us look at how God told Israel to deal with sin...
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