Read: Exodus 19:3-8; Romans 12:1
God is always faithful. What did He do for Israel when they needed rescuing from Egypt? What did He ask in return? What do you think that vs. 6 means? As a believer, you are a part of this expectation that God places on His people. What offering can you give that will be acceptable to Him? Is He your number one priority?
Read: Matthew 10:16-23; 28
If the altar represents the place of worship and the sacrifice represents the substance of worship, what does the fire that consumes the offering represent? Hint: Where did the fire come from that consumed Solomon’s offering? What was there after the fire came? Why do you suppose the fire of the Lord’s presence needs to be kept burning on the altar of your life? What is your altar like? Is it stone cold? Is it lukewarm? Or is it red hot? The Old Testament Jewish people kept vigilant to never let that flame go out. It was a symbol of their existence. What are you doing to keep the flame of God’s presence alive in your life?
Christ is seated on His throne. He is the acceptable offering to the Most High God in the Tabernacle not made with human hands. But His offering is a first fruit offering. We as the Church are the latter fruit. Are you an acceptable offering? This week we dig deeper into what makes an acceptable sacrifice to the Lord.
Read: Leviticus 6: 8-13; 2 Chronicles 7:1
Why did the Old Testament follower of God have to make a sacrifice? What is sin? What sorts of sinful practices are you tempted to do? What is the appropriate response to your sin? Is there anyone to whom you need to make restitution? What do you need to bring to your High Priest, Jesus Christ? Come to the Lord so that you are not guilty of anything. Thank God for His complete forgiveness in Christ.