Holiness: A Study In LeviticusEgzanp

What does it say?

God holds individuals responsible for wrongdoing against others, which is also sin against Him. Whether intentional or not, restitution and atonement had to be made.

What does it mean?

The guilt offering made atonement for wrongful acts against God or another person when damage or loss occurred. Mistreating or taking advantage of another person is a sin against God because all people are created in God’s image. The Lord emphasizes again that people are accountable for their sins, even if unintentional. The distinctive feature of this offering was the element of restitution, to both God and the person wronged, on the same day as the offering. It was similar to a settlement in a court case; but rather than being compelled to pay, the offender was to offer more than the value of the loss as an admission of guilt and demonstration of remorse.

How should I respond?

For any relationship to stay healthy, wrong must be made right as quickly as possible. The principle of restitution requires the offending person to act in humility with attitudes and actions that say, “I am in the wrong and want to more than make up for it.” Some wrongs are emotional and cannot be compensated monetarily, but God expects us to make the situation right as best we can. In what way have you wronged someone but not yet settled the issue? How can you take the first step toward restitution today? Followers of Christ should keep short accounts with God and with others.