~Another Look at the Lessons~

Read: Leviticus 4:27-31

God’s Word contains two opposite doctrines—the law (which reveals our sinfulness and God’s righteous judgment against us) and the gospel (which reveals God’s mercy and grace and promises). How did the Old Testament sacrificial system powerfully proclaim both these teachings?

What feelings and thoughts do you image would go through your mind had you been an Old Testament believer confessing your sins and slaughtering an animal and having it burned up? How is this similar to our regular public confession and absolution in worship?

We know that none of the Old Testament sacrifices actually had the power to take away sin (Heb. 10:11). Instead they pointed to Jesus, who would be God’s sacrifice for sin. How was Jesus sacrifice so much better? (cf. John 19:30; Hebrews 7:27; 1 John 2:2 if needed)

Read: Acts 13:38-49

How do people react when hearing the message that we are forgiven entirely of God’s mercy, that there is nothing we can or need to do to save ourselves?

Read: John 1:29-42

Imagine you were John’s disciples when you heard him say, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” What questions might have went through your mind?

When we come to believe that Jesus is our Substitute and Savior, what can’t we help but do for those we love?