Without it, we have no hope

Aug 01, 2026

Atonement

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For it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins.

Hebrews 10:4 (WEB)

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This is one of those verses that’s important to know for the sake of your own theology.

The old testament sacrificial system was never designed to take away sin.

It was merely a placeholder.

Something that would point to the perfect sacrifice that Jesus would provide in the future.

Which is, of course, our past.

That’s why we have verses that talk about Abraham believing God (i.e., placing his faith in God) and it being counted to him as righteousness.

Abraham wasn’t relying on the animal sacrifices to forgive his sin, he relied on God.

If you’ve ever wondered why we don’t do so many of the old testament laws anymore, it’s because Jesus fulfilled so many of them.

There are some which are still vital as relationships with our fellow humans. They remain in place.

Others, like the ones dealing with what kinds of food is clean or unclean, are no longer necessary.

Atonement for sin is found in Christ alone.

Just like He said, He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Jesus.

Take some time this morning and thank Jesus for His sacrifice that made a way for you to become righteous.

Without it, we have no hope.

— Ricky Ketchum