Numbers 15:22-29 – Sins of Ignorance
Here are the laws concerning sacrifices for sins of ignorance. If they fail in one part of any of the ceremonies, they must make it up by offering this sacrifice. An example is given of a national sin, committed through ignorance, and become a habit among the people. The ceremonial observances are so numerous, and so different, that it’s easy to imagine some of them gradually being forgotten and disused. So in time if they discover that there has been a general neglect of any commandment, then a sacrifice must be offered for the whole congregation, and the oversight shall be forgiven and not punished, as it deserves, with some national judgment. An example is given for an individual that sins through ignorance as well.
Notice that sins committed ignorantly need to have atonement made for them; for ignorance will not excuse or justify those that might have known their Lord’s will and don’t do it. David prays to be cleansed from his secret faults, that is, those sins which he himself is not aware of Ps. 19:12. Notice also that sins committed ignorantly can be forgiven, through Christ the great sacrifice, who, when He offered up Himself upon the cross, prays, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Again we see that this law of atoning for sins of ignorance is expressly made to extend to those who are strangers to the commonwealth of Israel. In this way the blessing of Abraham comes upon the Gentiles.
Question
- What two examples are given here?
- Who does this law apply to?
Prayer Points
- Pray that you would be forgiven from your secret sins.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.