As true believers, we struggle with sins because we are still in our mortal flesh, daily facing trials and temptations (Rom 7:15). We are miserable when we sin, because we feel the weight of our sin. Unbelievers, on the other hand, will not have such a struggle because they are dead in sin. Believers must realise that sin is real, and do the following:

1. Identify the sin (Lev 4:27-28):

In Leviticus 4:27, “common people” refers to the people of the land, or God’s people -- a unique identity with unique responsibilities. They bear Jesus’ name. It is a privilege and honour to shine forth for Christ. When Christians fall into sin (measured by God’s standard, which never changes, unlike the world’s), they allow unbelievers to attack Jesus’ name. The believer has to recognise that he has sinned, and confess it (Lev 4:28). He must not be proud or give excuses. God’s Word alone is the authority.

2. Deal with the sin through the only way (Lev 4:29-31)

Whatever our status in life, so long as we have sinned, a sin offering is necessary for us to be reconciled with God. It is God’s wonderful provision. In the Old Testament, the required sin offering for different sins were different. But all must come with a sin sacrifice. The sinner had to lay his hands on the head of the animal sacrifice, identifying himself with that animal, that the animal was taking his place to bear what the sinner deserved. Then he killed that animal, with the priest taking the blood and applying it onto the horns of the altar. Without the shedding the blood, there is no remission of sins (Heb 9:22). Jesus Christ is our High Priest, Mediator, altar, Lamb of God, Sacrifice, our atonement, our peace. He is the only way through which we can be reconciled with God. Not by more service, more love gifts, more community service, partaking of the Lord’s Supper, etc. So long as we have sinned, we must all go through the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s most wonderful provision, in order that we can be reconciled with God.

3. Accept God’s full forgiveness (Lev 4:32-35)

The “common people” were allowed to offer a female animal sacrifice (Lev 4:32), while the ruler must offer a male animal sacrifice (Lev 4:22-23). Perhaps the difference was that the female animal was cheaper than the male animal. Despite this difference, God still gives full forgiveness of sin. This emphasised His mercies, atonement and peace. When the sinner has identified his sin, sought forgiveness from God through Jesus, he can be assured that God’s forgiveness will be given (1 John 1:8-2:1), no matter how heinous his sin was. John Newton testified: “I am a great sinner, but I have a great Saviour.” Do not wallow in self-pity, but go to Jesus for that full forgiveness, and be reconciled with God.