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Temple Work of the Old Testament
The Guilt Offering
. A guilt offering was given for transgressions that
resulted in a loss for which restitution was possible (verse 16). In contrast, a sin offering was only given where restitution was
not possible. In each case, an animal without defect or blemish was sacrificed as a substitute for the offender. The removal of
the burden of guilt was a powerful blessing Heavenly Father gave his children. When one of his children
came to him with such a guilt offering he or she would leave the burden of guilt at the altar and walk away strengthened in
faith and reminded that Heavenly Father was taking personal control of his or her life.
Picture a child burdened with
guilt. Picture a parent consoling that child and letting the child know she is loved in spite of her
disobedience. Picture the change in the face of the child as the parent tells her that while there may be consequences
to her actions; she has been forgiven, her sinful actions will not result in a reduction of love or support from her
parent. Now picture that child witness her parent atone for her mistake. Finally, imagine the emotions of that
child; her thankfulness, resolve, peace, confidence and love as her life continues. Will she hold her parent's hand
more tightly? Will she love her parent more deeply? Will she take this gift of mercy for granted and sin more
carelessly? This is the tremendous gift of mercy, of grace, that Heavenly Father offered his chosen people, the
Israelites, through the guilt offering.
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