Essay On The Day Of Atonement

The Day of Atonement involves not only the forgiveness of sin but it also pictures the removal of sin. This day pictures an important step in God's plan of salvation. It teaches us about the forgiveness of sin and our reconciliation to God through Christ's sacrifice. All people suffer the tragic consequences of sin but sin does not happen without a cause. In the Book of Leviticus Chapter 16, we see there are symbolism or rituals associated with the day of Atonement. This chapter describes God instructing ancient Israel to observe the Day of Atonement. The Israelites were required to offer animal sacrifices on this day. In verses 5 and 7 we read Aaron, the high priest was to select two goats for a sin offering for the people. He was to present them before God. Then he was to cast lots to select one "for the Lord," which he (Aaron) was to offer as a sacrifice (verses 8 - 9).This goat represented Jesus Christ who would be slain to pay the penalty for our sins. The other goat served a completely different purpose. Leviticus Chapter 16 verse 10 reads: "But the goat chosen by lot as …show more content…
Ultimately, this chapter points to the dual roles that God our Father gave to Jesus Christ to become both our High Priest and ultimate sacrifice for sins. Israel's high priest was to wear "the holy linen tunic and the linen trousers," and "be girded with linen sash" (Leviticus 16 verse 4). This is similar to the clothing Christ wore when He appeared to the Apostle John. Since two goats were involved, many think both goats represented Christ. Leviticus 16 verse 8 clearly states "one lot for the Lord and the other lot for the scapegoat." The scapegoat was not to be killed. This goat had to carry on itself all their sins to a remote area. On The Day of Atonement each year the nation of Israel was figuratively cleansed from its sins. Christians are not required to offer animal sacrifices