Once and for All
The noble ram was without flaw, and was the absolute finest of the flock. It had been hand-raised by the shepherd to be the best. The shepherd led the ram into town, through the gates, and down the street to the tabernacle of meeting. The shepherd gently placed his hands upon the sheep’s head, and with his own blade killed the magnificent animal. A tear welled up in the shepherd’s eye as the priest began his ceremonial duties. The blood was sprinkled all around the altar. The animal was cut and placed on the altar, where it was burned.
In the Old Testament, God required the people to make sacrifices to Him. Because sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2), these sacrifices were used to keep people in a right relationship with Him. But these offerings were only a temporary solution for the world’s struggle with sin. “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins” (Hebrews 10:4). So, how do Christians today deal with sin?
Two thousand years ago, Jesus Christ was led out of the city and down the street to a place called Calvary. He was beaten, whipped, and nailed to a cross. His blood was shed, and He died on that cross for you and me.“Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many” (Hebrews 9:28). He was the ultimate sacrifice. No other sacrifice will ever have to be made on man’s behalf. The question is: Will you recognize Jesus as your sacrifice by obeying His Word?
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