Why did God command that sacrifices should atone for sins?

Author: BibleAsk Team


Sacrifices to Atone for Sin

Can a normal person enjoy putting a knife into an innocent lamb? Yet, God commanded the offering of animal sacrifices for the atonement of sin at the entrance of sin into the world. later on, this act was carried on by the priests in the temple on behalf of sinners.

The first lesson God desired to teach His children through the animal sacrifices was that sin causes death. This was a sad experience for the sinner, because he knew that his sin caused the death of the creature. This very act made him decide to “go, and sin no more” (John 8:11). He visualized the result of sin. It meant the death of an innocent one. It raised a hatred in his heart for sin.

Today, this lesson is needed more than ever. In our secular liberal world, some Christians view sin too lightly. They think of it as a trivial matter in life. Others regard sin as unfortunate but unavoidable. But the truth is that sin causes death.

The New Testament specifically states that “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Many Christians don’t fully comprehend the importance of that statement. Humans were the guilty ones not Christ.  They deserved to die for their own sins but “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

The ultimate expression of divine love was the Father’s offer of His own Son through whom it becomes conceivable for believers to be “called the sons of God” (1 John 3:1). “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).

Meditation upon Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is very necessary to help Christians realize the dreadfulness of sin and the great price Christ paid to redeem sinners. This will lead the sinner to offer his love, gratitude, and devotion to the One that freely gave His life for him.

In His service,
BibleAsk Team

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