“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! […] Do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?”—Romans 6:1–3 NKJV

Paul began Romans 6 with a series of questions. This was no accident. His entire letter to the Romans is filled with questions. In the NKJV, the book of Romans has 75 questions! Paul knew the impact questions could have. Inserting a question changes the flow of the writing and makes the words come alive for us. Whenever we read a question, we should feel challenged. We are being encouraged to stop and think, to consider the issues and how we might respond. We see the impact of questions throughout Paul’s ministry. For example, questions were central to what he wrote about the Lord’s Supper: “Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this?” (1 Corinthians 11:22). Each question provides an opportunity for readers to answer Paul for themselves and think about the issues he discusses. Jesus frequently used questions. The Old Testament, too, is filled with questions, presenting opportunities for us to think about what has been said. Although not a question, the word Selah is used over 70 times in the book of Psalms, encouraging us to pause and reflect. As you read the Bible, remember to think about the questions asked. How would you respond? What is the deeper meaning for you?

Reflection Question: Spend some time answering the questions posed in Romans 6.

“The day of atonement … shall be a holy convocation for you, and you shall humble your souls … it is a day … to make atonement on your behalf before the Lord your God.”—Leviticus 23:27–28 NASB

Clean. Spotless. Pure. These are more than just words for high priests. Once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), the sacred duty of the Jewish High Priest was to enter the Holy of Holies—the presence of Almighty God—all alone. This is part of one of three appointed times instituted by God Himself (vs. 2, 4). On these days, there were to be holy convocations. Special offerings were to be made. Specifically, the Day of Atonement was to be set aside for prayer, soul searching, confession, and repentance. It was so serious that no one could work or eat. After the high priest made a sacrifice to atone for himself and other priests, he sacrificed a goat as a sin offering for the people. Then another goat was sent into the wilderness, symbolically taking with it the sins of the people. Through this symbolism, we are reminded of all that Jesus has done for us. He sacrificed Himself so that we might be forgiven. Jesus also became our high priest. Like the scapegoat, He took our sins away “as far as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12). The Day of Atonement, celebrated beginning at sundown today, still has special meaning. Remember, this is one of “the Lord’s appointed times.” Humble yourself before Him. Seek to be clean in His sight. Receive His forgiveness, freedom, and victory!

Reflection Question: Pray to receive God’s forgiveness today.