Leviticus speaks not only of redemption from sin, but access to God, and acceptance

with Him. The first offering mentioned is the whole burnt-offering, something to meet

the claims of God, and not so much the needs of man. "Hallowed be Thy name" comes

before "Forgive us our trespasses." The fire upon the altar signifies holiness satisfied by

perfection; the fire upon the sin-offering outside the camp denotes wrath, holiness

meeting sin.

The offerer "draws near," and presents the offering--"without blemish." The words

"of his own voluntary will" should read, "for his acceptance." Similarly, after the

all-searching eye of Jehovah has examined the offering, the man puts his hand upon its

head, and "it shall be accepted for him to make an atonement for him." Where is

boasting? it is excluded. No man can really trust in Christ and exalt the flesh or its works.

The word "atonement" signifies a "covering." The blood of Christ covers the sinner from

the consequences of his sin, and also with His own excellency. This is further shown by

the mention of the skin in verse 6. A reference to Gen. 3: 21, Isa. 6: 10, and 64: 6 will

help to show how this is a type of the righteousness which is imputed to the sinner--the

righteousness provided by Christ.

There are two other burnt-offerings in this chapter, a lamb and doves. In one respect

they are the same, in another they differ. They represent the varied conceptions held by

believers, the varied degrees of faith and appreciation of His wonderful work. In each

case (verses 9, 13 and 17) the words are recorded without modification, "It is an offering

made by fire of a sweet savour unto the Lord." We are not accepted according to the

measure of our faith, but according to God's estimate of the perfect offering, but weak

faith can mar our enjoyment and assurance.

Only the first offerer (the man who represents the large conception of Christ's work),

only this one "put his hand upon the head" and removed the skin. How few rejoice in

imputed righteousness. How few even know of imputed sanctification. To them it is all,

"Do this," "Do that," or "Touch not, taste not, handle not." How few know the blessed

fact of identification with the sacrifice? How few lay their hands upon the work of Christ

and say, "I have been crucified with Christ, I have died with Christ, been buried with

Christ, am risen with Christ, and finally shall be forever with Christ." Yet this is typified

in the act of laying the hand upon the head of the burnt-offering. Further, the word

translated "put" means "to lean for support." In Psa. 3: 5 it is translated "sustain." Some

"lean" upon their "good works," they "hope" that they are saved. Others "lean" upon

their teachers, but there is no certainty here. What a contrast is the man who "leans" for