Commentary on Numbers 15:28

Numbers 15:28 states: "And the priest shall make an atonement for the soul that sinneth ignorantly, when he sinneth by ignorance before the Lord, to make an atonement for him; and it shall be forgiven him." This verse highlights the importance of atonement and the gracious provision of God for those who sin unintentionally.

Contextual Background

In the larger narrative of the Book of Numbers, chapters 14–16 deal with themes of rebellion, disobedience, and the continued faithfulness of God towards His covenant people. The instructions provided by God through Moses include provisions for sacrifices and atonement, particularly emphasizing the nature and seriousness of sin, even when committed in ignorance.

Theological Insights

The provision for atonement for unintentional sins serves several theological purposes. Firstly, it underscores God’s mercy and willingness to forgive those who transgress without full knowledge or intent. It illustrates the gravity of sin, while also emphasizing that God provides a means for restoration.

Atonement for Ignorance

Matthew Henry comments on the nature of "sinning ignorantly" and notes that such sins are not excused, but rather require a form of atonement. This signifies that even uninformed transgressions are seen seriously in God's eyes and necessitate a response.

Albert Barnes points out that God's laws come with the expectation of accountability, which extends even to those who are unaware of their wrongdoings. The act of unintentional sin reflects the inherent fallen nature of humanity and the necessity of ongoing divine intervention.

Practical Applications

Pastors and theologians can draw critical lessons from this passage regarding pastoral care and the understanding of sin within their congregations. The implications of this verse extend into the realm of personal and communal sin, urging believers to recognize that ignorance of sin does not imply immunity from accountability.

• Teaching on Unintentional Sins: Educators in the church should ensure that congregants are aware of the weight of unintentional sins, promoting systems in place for communal confession and accountability.
• Encouragement of Atonement: Just as there was a provision in the Old Testament for atonement, there is a similar call for believers in Christ to partake in the means of grace provided for them, facilitating restoration and forgiveness.
• Promoting Awareness: This passage invites leaders to foster a culture of humility and awareness regarding sin, encouraging reflection and confession before God.

Scholarly Insights

Adam Clarke elaborates on the role of the priest in this context, emphasizing that the priest acts as an intermediary who restores the relationship between the sinner and God. Clarke brings attention to the sacred duty of the priest in making atonement, which ultimately mirrors the mediatorial role of Christ in the New Testament.

The act of atonement is not only a ritualistic practice but signifies a deeper theological reality—the need for bloodshed as a means of appeasing the justice of God and restoring harmony in the covenant relationship.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Numbers 15:28 encapsulates profound truths about the nature of sin, the mercy of God, and the necessary mechanism of atonement. This verse serves as a reminder of the seriousness of all forms of sin and reinforces the ongoing need for God’s grace in the lives of believers.

As such, this commentary on Numbers 15:28 can provide valuable insights for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, allowing them to explore the implications of unintentional sin and the abundant grace that God offers to restore and forgive.