Who is your scapegoat?

February 20, 2013            Lev 16–18, Mark 1:21–45, Ps 25:16–22, Prov 5:8–9

We use the term scapegoat in common English to mean someone that takes the blame for something. In politics this is used often in a very negative concatenation. The term is used here in Leviticus and is used of Christ. Do you have a spiritual scapegoat that takes the punishment for your sins? Only the Lamb of God will suffice. 

Leviticus 16-18

Chapter 16 deals with the Day of Atonement, read Hebrews 10 to see the significance for the Christian.

The High Priest had to be alone, just as Christ could only go to the cross by Himself. The priest had to lay aside his glorious garments just as Jesus did when He came to earth (Phil. 2:1-11). The priest had to wash, Jesus of course was sinless however He was baptized for fulfill all righteousness. The priest had to offer a sin offering for himself, Jesus of course was the only one that did not have to do this (Heb. 7:23-28). The priest then entered the holy of holies three times: first, with incense; then, with blood from the sacrifice for himself; last, with the blood shed for the people. Jesus first prayed, then he offered Himself for us on the cross.

What is a scapegoat? Read Psalm 103:12; in what way did Jesus do this for us?

Chapter 17

Why did God demand the blood of animals?
Why did matter where the sacrifice was offered?

Chapter 18

We are under the authority of God and thus He has standards for us to follow to be holy. He first talks about sexual relations outside of marriage and what damage they can do. Why do you think this has always been such a problem for humanity?

Mark 1:21-45

We see here Jesus has authority over demons and sickness.

Even the demons admitted He was the Son of God, however that did not save them James 2:19.

Why did Jesus preform miracles?

Psalm 25:16-22

David was very far from perfect, he sinned often and with terrible consequences; however we do see over and over again he asks for forgiveness and is given it. How can you follow in his example?

Proverbs 5:8-9

We are warned to stay away from that which tempts us. What tempts you and how can you hedge against the effects of this temptation?

Praise God that Jesus’ sacrifice was sufficient for all people and for all time.

Jesus has authority overall, for He is Lord over all. What areas of your life do you need to give over to Him?

Where do you need to pray for forgiveness and where do you need to pray for spiritual protection?

Tomorrow Ryan and I are going to visit our students at East Carolina University, pray that we can encourage them and bless them.

Please pray that I can know how best to use my time, I do not waste much time, but there is always much to do and that means someone’s perceived or real need is not being met by me. Pray that God gives me wisdom, that God provides shepherds for the flock, and that people would realize that their Elders and other visitors from the congregation can minister to them (sometimes much better than I).