“And the tallow that is to be separated for the burnt offering shall he take away: and the priest shall burn it upon the altar, according to the offerings made by fire unto the Lord: and the priest shall make an atonement for his sin that he hath committed, and it shall be forgiven him.” (Exodus 25:38, KJV)
Exodus 25:38 is part of a larger section in the book of Exodus where God gives instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle and the various rituals and offerings to be performed there. This verse specifically focuses on the tallow (rendered fat) that is to be separated for the burnt offering.
Here are a few key points to consider in this Bible study:
- The Significance of the Burnt Offering: The burnt offering was a significant aspect of the sacrificial system in the Old Testament. It involved the complete burning of the entire animal on the altar as an offering to God. It symbolized surrender, dedication, and atonement for sin.
- The Role of the Priest: In this verse, the priest is responsible for taking the separated tallow and burning it on the altar, following the prescribed offerings made by fire unto the Lord. The priest acted as a mediator between God and the people, performing the necessary rituals to facilitate forgiveness and atonement.
- Atonement and Forgiveness: The act of burning the tallow on the altar served as a means of atonement for sin. The burnt offering, along with other offerings, was a way for the people to seek forgiveness from God for their transgressions. The verse emphasizes that the priest would make an atonement for his own sin and it would be forgiven.
- Symbolism and Foreshadowing: The burnt offering and the entire sacrificial system in the Old Testament point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Jesus became the perfect and complete offering for sin, fulfilling the need for ongoing sacrifices. His sacrifice once and for all provides forgiveness and atonement for all who believe in Him.
As you study Exodus 25:38 in context with the broader themes and teachings of the Bible, you can gain a deeper understanding of the sacrificial system, the role of the priest, and the foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrifice. It is a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and atonement for our sins and the ultimate fulfillment of these concepts in Jesus Christ.
