On this same occasion, because of Israel's sins, propitiation Godward was to be made by killing one of two goats and sprinkling its blood also upon the mercy seat. So far the blood here, including the blood of the bullock, is looked at exclusively as propitiating God, making "atonement for the holy place," "for the tabernacle," "for the altar," "for Aaron," "for his house," and "for Israel," without considering any benefits for the sinner. Thus God's requirements because of sin come first and before the truth as to the second goat, the scapegoat, on which the sins of the people were laid.
"The first part is the most important" (J. N. D. Synopsis, Vol. 1, p. 205). "That we have been saved and redeemed, and that our sins have been atoned for in that same sacrifice, according to the counsels of the grace of God, is (I presume to say it, precious and important as it is for us) the inferior part of that work... its object at least—we sinners—is inferior" (J. N. D. Synopsis, Vol. 1, p. 207).
"God's glory must be first, rather than the creature's need. God's holiness and honor must first be secured. Man is slow to rise above anything that is not for himself. Men only think of the sinner in the work of our Lord Jesus. But the primary aspect of the atonement is toward God" (W.K., Day of Atonement, p. 104).
"This latter is but secondary—an inferior application of the atonement, though our foolish hearts would fain regard it as the very highest possible view of the cross, to see in it that which puts away our sins. This is a mistake. God's glory is the first thing, our salvation is the second" (C H. M., Notes on Leviticus, p. 197).