In today’s reading we see further how seriously the Lord takes our sin. Whether it is intentional or unintentional, our sin is disgusting! Therefore, the process for atoning for our sins is an unpleasant mess. It requires a bloody sacrifice as first demonstrated in the beginning of this story, in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve. The fig leaves Adam and Eve tried to use for covering did not suffice. Because sin is costly, God had to kill an innocent animal that he called good to cover the guilty Adam and Eve. Ultimately it cost God His innocent only Son to cover our guilt once for all.
Today the Lord addresses four categories of people: priests, whole congregation, rulers, and common people. We are all sinners, but God ensures a way for everyone to atone for their sins from the highest to the lowest among the people – “If he is not able to bring a lamb, then he shall bring to the Lord, for his trespass which he has committed, two turtledoves or two young pigeons: one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering… But if he is not able to bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons, then he who sinned shall bring for his offering one-tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a sin offering.”
The day is coming when the people will no longer have to bring an animal sacrifice. The day is coming when John the Baptist will arrive on the scene and announce, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Jesus is coming to shed His blood as the final sacrifice, freeing us from our sins and restoring us to His Father. And to Jesus Christ “who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen” (Revelation 1:5-6).
Tomorrow, the priests get dressed for their new job. Keep reading. (Leviticus 4:1-6:30)
Chronological Bible in Layman's Terms 