What does expiation mean in the Bible?

Expiation is a term that evokes deep theological significance within the Christian faith, particularly regarding concepts of sin, atonement, and reconciliation with God. Rooted in biblical texts and historical doctrine, expiation offers insight into how believers understand their relationship with God and the role of Jesus Christ in the salvation narrative. This blog post will explore the meaning of expiation in the Bible, its scriptural foundations, its contrasting concepts, and its implications for contemporary Christian life.

The Definition of Expiation

At its core, expiation refers to the act of making amends or atoning for wrongdoing, especially in the context of sin. In the biblical sense, it denotes the removal of guilt and the restoration of a person's relationship with God. It is often associated with the sacrifices outlined in the Old Testament, where the aim is to cleanse individuals from the defilement of sin. To expiate, therefore, involves a sense of purification and the covering of transgressions, allowing for reconciliation with the divine.

Expiation in the Old Testament

The concept of expiation is extensively rooted in the Old Testament sacrificial system. Leviticus 16 describes the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), a day when the high priest would perform specific rituals to atone for the sins of the people. In this context, a goat is designated as the "scapegoat," symbolically carrying the sins of the Israelite community into the wilderness as a means of expiation (Leviticus 16:10). The other goat was sacrificed to purge the sanctuary from sin—a vivid depiction of how sin requires a costly price for atonement and emphasizes God’s holiness and the seriousness of sin.

Additionally, the burnt offerings and sin offerings outlined in Leviticus and other books serve as practical means of expiating sins. These rituals aimed to restore the covenant relationship between God and His people, underscoring the necessity of acknowledging sin and seeking forgiveness through appropriate sacrifices.

Expiation in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the concept of expiation reaches its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The book of Hebrews expounds on the significance of Christ's sacrifice, asserting that His death on the cross serves as the once-and-for-all atonement for sin (Hebrews 10:10). Here, expiation emphasizes not only the removal of guilt but also the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity, affirming that believers are cleansed and reconciled through faith in Christ.

1 John 2:2 states, "He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world." This is often interpreted to mean that Christ’s sacrifice fulfills the requirement for expiating sin, bringing ultimate reconciliation to those who accept Him. Consequently, through Christ, believers are no longer bound by the guilt of their past and can confidently approach God.

Expiation vs. Propitiation

It is essential to distinguish between expiation and propitiation, as both terms are often discussed in biblical contexts. While expiation emphasizes the removal of sin and guilt, propitiation refers to the appeasement of God's wrath. In other words, propitiation highlights that sin incurs a consequence, and through Christ's sacrificial death, God's righteous anger is satisfied.

This distinction is vital for understanding the fullness of Christ's atoning work. Expiation allows for sins to be completely forgiven, while propitiation addresses the holistic nature of Jesus’s sacrifice in ensuring that God’s justice and mercy meet at the cross.

The Implications of Expiation for Believers

Understanding expiation carries profound implications for contemporary Christians. First, it highlights the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. Recognizing that sin separates humanity from God fosters a greater appreciation for the grace provided through Christ’s sacrifice. This awareness can lead to a deeper commitment to living in accordance with God's will, striving for holiness, and actively pursuing reconciliation in relationships.

Furthermore, the concept of expiation offers hope and assurance. Believers can rest in the knowledge that their sins are forgiven and that they possess a restored relationship with God. This assurance is transformative, allowing Christians to embrace their identity as children of God, free from the burden of guilt.

Conclusion: The Importance of Expiation in the Biblical Narrative

As Christians grapple with the weight of their sin and experience the transformative power of expiation, they embark on a journey of healing, restoration, and renewed purpose in their relationship with God. Therefore, the study and understanding of expiation are vital for grasping the essence of the Gospel and living a life reflective of God's grace and mercy.