Lamb without Blemish

Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

1 Peter 1:18-19

          The Passover lamb was special, the most perfect of the flock. It had to be examined for flaws in health and appearance before being set apart for an additional four days inside the family's own home for even more careful scrutiny. Only the very best could be offered to God.

         

When the animal passed the tests of wholesomeness, it was chosen to die. Its white wool was stained red with blood and the perfect little body was roasted in the fire.

         

There was no benefit gained as long as the little creature was alive and well. However, when the spotless lamb was bruised and abused, it became a substitute for the sinner it was sacrificed to redeem. God’s design for the Passover feast wasn't to create a mindless ritual but rather serve as a clear illustration of His provision of redemption.

         

Peter declares Christ to be the Lamb without blemish and without spot. His nature and character were sinless. Even the politician who signed His death sentence declared “I have found no fault in this Man” (Luke 23:14).

         

“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). By being holy. He could blot out sin for the whole human race. By becoming sin for us, He was the perfect substitute that truly redeemed.