What is the significance of the scapegoat in atonement?

The scapegoat serves as a profound illustration of how atonement for sin is accomplished. In Leviticus 16, the high priest symbolically laid the iniquities of the people upon the scapegoat, which was then sent into the wilderness, representing the removal of sin. This act intercedes as a type for Christ, who takes upon Himself the sins of the elect. As the sermon highlights, our Lord Jesus Christ fulfilled this imagery when He bore the sins of His people at Calvary, effectively making a complete atonement that removes guilt once and for all. Thus, the scapegoat is not just a historical ritual but a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make, culminating in the assurance that for those He saves, their iniquities are purged away.