Goats came to symbolize evil and the expression “scape-goat” is a common expression for someone bearing blame or guilt for others. (See Leviticus 26:20 – 22 for a description of the ritual expulsion of a sin – bearing goat on the Day of Atonement.) Jesus took our guilt and sins upon himself and nailed them to the cross. He paid the price to set us free from sin and death. Our choice is either to follow and obey him as our Lord and Saviour or to be our own master and go our own separate way apart from God’s way of truth and righteousness (moral goodness). We cannot remain neutral or indifferent to the commands of Christ. If we do not repent of our wrongdoing (our sins and offences against God and neighbour) and obey the Gospel we cannot be disciples of the Lord Jesus nor inherit his kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy. Separation of the good from the bad is inevitable because one way leads to sin, rebellion, and death and the other way leads to purification, peace, and everlasting life with God.