Understanding Numbers 29:16

Numbers 29:16 states: "And one goat for a sin offering, besides the sin offering of the atonement, and the continual burnt offering, and the meat offering of it, and their drink offerings."

This verse is part of the detailed instructions given to the Israelites concerning the offerings associated with the Feast of Tabernacles. The rich symbolism of these offerings reflects the relationship between sin, atonement, and the sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law.

Summary of Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the importance of the sin offering as a representation of the need for atonement. He highlights the seriousness of sin and the necessity for sacrifice in maintaining a holy relationship with God. The goat symbolizes the acknowledgment of sin and the need for purification.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes notes that the goat for a sin offering is vital because it underscores God’s provision for sin atonement. He elaborates on the continuity of offerings, which serve as reminders of their dependence on God’s mercy and grace.

• Adam Clarke’s Commentary:

  Clarke provides insight into the communal aspect of these offerings. He mentions how sacrifices were not only for individual sins but for the nation’s sins, indicating the collective need for atonement and divine forgiveness. He links these acts to the overarching narrative of redemption throughout the Bible.

Bible Verse Cross-References

To deepen the understanding of Numbers 29:16, we can look at the following scriptures that relate thematically or contextually:

• Leviticus 4:24: Discusses the sin offering as a means of atonement for the community.
• Hebrews 9:22: States that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sins, connecting to the necessity of offerings.
• 1 John 1:7: Emphasizes that the blood of Jesus cleanses from all sin, linking Old Testament practices to New Testament theology.
• Romans 3:25: Speaks of Jesus as a propitiation, relating to the themes of atonement found in the verse.
• Numbers 28:3-4: Outlines the daily offerings, giving context to the ritual system in place at the time.
• Isaiah 53:6: Refers to the suffering servant bearing the iniquities of many, connecting to the theme of sacrificial atonement.
• Hebrews 10:4: Clarifies that the blood of bulls and goats cannot take away sin, linking the Old Covenant sacrifices to the final sacrifice of Christ.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

The connections between Numbers 29:16 and other scripture verses illustrate the consistent biblical theme of sin offering and atonement. These cross-references present a cohesive narrative of God’s redemptive purpose through sacrifice:

• The Old Testament sacrificial system, emphasizing the need for offerings to atone for sin.
• The prophetic declarations, indicating the forthcoming ultimate sacrifice of Christ.
• The New Testament writings highlighting the completion of the law through Christ’s work.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

For further study on how to connect various scripture writings, consider utilizing the following resources:

• Bible Concordance: A systematic way to find relationships through keywords.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Provides pathways to related verses across the scriptures.
• Bible Study Software: Digital tools that help in exploring inter-related scriptures.

Engaging in Cross-Referencing Bible Study

Learning how to efficiently use these cross-reference tools enriches personal study and sermon preparation. It enables one to draw on a comprehensive understanding and analytical framework for biblical texts.