SOAP Bible study is a method that involves Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. It’s a way to delve deeper into the Bible and apply its teachings to one’s life. Let’s apply this method to our SOAP Bible Study: Numbers 15:22-31, which focuses on sacrifices, unintentional sins, Sabbath rules, and tassels, offering a deeper understanding of God’s expectations for His people.
Scripture
“‘Now if you as a community unintentionally fail to keep any of these commands the Lord gave Moses—23 any of the Lord’s commands to you through him, from the day the Lord gave them and continuing through the generations to come—24 and if this is done unintentionally without the community being aware of it, then the whole community is to offer a young bull for a burnt offering as an aroma pleasing to the Lord, along with its prescribed grain offering and drink offering, and a male goat for a sin offering. 25 The priest is to make atonement for the whole Israelite community, and they will be forgiven, for it was not intentional and they have presented to the Lord for their wrong a food offering and a sin offering. 26 The whole Israelite community and the foreigners residing among them will be forgiven, because all the people were involved in the unintentional wrong. 27 “‘But if just one person sins unintentionally, that person must bring a year-old female goat for a sin offering. 28 The priest is to make atonement before the Lord for the one who erred by sinning unintentionally, and when atonement has been made for them, they will be forgiven. 29 One and the same law applies to everyone who sins unintentionally, whether a native-born Israelite or a foreigner residing among you. 30 “‘But anyone who sins defiantly, whether native-born or foreigner, blasphemes the Lord and must be cut off from the people of Israel. 31 Because they have despised the Lord’s word and broken his commands, they must surely be cut off; their guilt remains on them.’” Numbers 15:22-31 (NIV)
Observation
This passage delineates the procedures and sacrifices required for unintentional sins committed by the community or an individual. It highlights the grace and provision of forgiveness through atonement. Unintentional sins are treated with the possibility of forgiveness upon proper atonement. Conversely, defiant (intentional) sins are met with severe consequences, emphasizing a hardened heart’s rejection of God’s commandments and authority.
Application
- Acknowledgment of Unintentional Sins: This passage reminds us of the importance of recognizing and addressing our unintentional sins. Even when our actions are not willfully wrong, they still require repentance and atonement.
- God’s Provision for Forgiveness: God provides a way for the Israelites to be forgiven, illustrating His mercy. We too have access to forgiveness through Jesus Christ, our ultimate atonement.
- The Seriousness of Intentional Sin: Intentional, defiant sin is met with severe consequences, showing the gravity of willfully turning away from God. This calls us to maintain a heart of obedience and reverence for God’s commands.
- Community Responsibility: The communal aspect of atonement highlights the importance of collective responsibility and intercession within the body of believers. We should support one another in our spiritual walk, seeking forgiveness and restoration together.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for Your provision of forgiveness for our sins, both unintentional and intentional. Help us to recognize our faults and seek Your grace through repentance. Keep our hearts tender and obedient to Your Word, and guide us to support and uplift each other as a community of believers. We ask for Your strength to avoid defiant actions that turn us away from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Let our SOAP Bible Study: Numbers 15:22-31 be just the beginning. Let it ignite a deeper desire within you to continue exploring the Scriptures. Each chapter and verse in the Book of Numbers is rich with divine revelation waiting to be uncovered. I encourage you to keep studying, keep questioning, and keep seeking the light that Jesus offers. Dive deeper into the free Bible outlines available, engage with the full text, and allow God’s word to continuously transform your heart and mind. Embrace this journey of faith with enthusiasm and let the Word that was in the beginning guide you each step of the way.
