1. Leviticus 16:1–34 (ESV)
  2. Application

How does this chapter apply to New Testament belivers?

Leviticus 16:1–34 (ESV)

1 The LORD spoke to Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they drew near before the LORD and died,

Leviticus 16:1–34 teaches us that the only way one can have access into the presence of the Lord is by the atoning blood of a sacrificial goat and the removal of sins. God's gracious provision of atonement for his people is through Jesus Christ, who fulfils all that was required by the sacrificial goat and the scapegoat.

The sacrificial death of Jesus Christ makes full atonement for the sins of those who trust in him. Romans 3:25 says that Jesus died as the propitiation for our sins.

When Jesus made atonement for the sins of his people, he made access into the presence of God available.

Additionally, Jesus made this sacrifice in the Holy of Holies. He did this by entering into the heavenly sanctuary and offered his own blood to put away sins once and for all (Hebrews 9:1-10:39).

Finally, as the scapegoat, Jesus took all our sins upon himself and carried them away to judgment. Because our sins were transferred to him there is no longer need for any ritual to point to God's provision in Christ. In the new covenant there is no longer the need for an annual Day of Atonement. Every believer has a right to enter the heavenly sanctuary because of the finished work of Christ.