More on Sacrifice
Here are a couple of more points, briefly, about sacrifice. (I am looking into the possibility of providing a link to a download of the sermons - for Dave and anyone else who may be interested)
- Passionate - many of the sacrifices were burnt offerings - offerings made with fire, an aroma pleasing to the Lord. Our praise and worship must be passionate. We’ve got to have fire in the belly, our expression of worship obviously being zealous and wholehearted. Who wants to listen to praise and prayer that’s wet, limp, apologetic dribble!
- Extravagant - there would often be tens of thousands of bulls etc. sacrificed at one point e.g at the dedication of the Temple. That is ridiculously extravagant and wondefrfully over the top!! I believe that it is quite possible that, when David brought the Ark back to Jerusalem, he sacrificed an ox and a calf every six steps (for a distance of between 7 to 14 miles). Some would disagree, pointing out that it only mentioned he did that after the first six - but why do that unless it was indicating, as the NIV Bible Commentary says ‘that is was probable that these sacrifices were made after every six steps.’ How wonderfully over the top!! Oh for all the people of God to be extravagant in the extreme in their pouring out of there praise to God!!
Two more to follow tomorrow.
March 22nd, 2006 @ 9:52 pm
I’m stirred by these insights. It helps bring an understanding of the Hebrews 13 passage; Through Jesus, therefore , let us continally offer to God sacrafice of praise - the fruit of our lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrafices God is well pleased.
March 23rd, 2006 @ 2:51 pm
These are some great thoughts. It seems to me that this is the way in which we are to make use Mosaic law, as illustrations for our life under the New Covenant. Great stuff!