The Sacrificial Lamb
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
- Romans 6:23
In the outer court was the altar of brass. At its four corners, the sin nature was dealt with, sacrifices were slain and forgiveness was received and celebrated.
The high priest would take the blood of the lamb from off the altar and put it on his right earlobe, setting himself and his life apart to hearing God’s voice. He would place another drop on his right thumb—and right toe—setting apart the actions and deeds of his life unto God.
Then, forgiveness was appropriated for the people as the priest offered a lamb on the altar for their sins. This is just another example of how your forgiveness has absolutely nothing to do with you.
It’s not about your good works, the church you attend or how many times a day you pray. You are forgiven only through the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, our Savior and King.
All of this occurred in the outer court—reminding us of the need to put our flesh aside before going deeper into the presence of God. You could stay in the outer court if you wanted to…but God invites you to come closer.
Further Reading
- Leviticus 5
- Hebrews 9:11-14
- Hebrews 10:1-18
