How does 2 Samuel 6:13 demonstrate the importance of honoring God in worship? Setting the scene • David is bringing the ark—a visible throne of God’s presence—back to Jerusalem after the tragedy with Uzzah (2 Samuel 6:6-7). • This time, the Levites carry it the way God prescribed (Numbers 4:15; 1 Chronicles 15:2, 15). • 2 Samuel 6:13: “When those carrying the ark of the LORD had taken six steps, he sacrificed an ox and a fattened calf.” Six steps, then a sacrifice • Stopping after only six strides underlines deliberate, rhythmical reverence. • Every pause proclaims: “We dare not rush the presence of God.” • The costly offering (an ox and a fattened calf) shows worship that values God above possessions (cf. 1 Chronicles 21:24). • The repeated pattern likely continued the entire journey (see 1 Chronicles 15:26), turning the procession into one extended act of adoration. Why sacrifice belongs at the center of worship • Sacrifice acknowledges sin and the need for atonement (Leviticus 17:11). • It expresses thanksgiving and devotion (Psalm 50:14). • In New Testament light, every Old Testament offering foreshadows the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 10:10-12). • Therefore, David’s offerings prefigure how genuine worship must revolve around God’s redemptive work rather than human performance. Contrasting rushed and reverent worship • First attempt (2 Samuel 6:3-7): new cart, human convenience, tragic result. • Second attempt (2 Samuel 6:13): God’s method, frequent pauses, sacrificial focus, resulting joy (6:14-15). • Lesson: obedience plus reverence invites blessing; shortcuts invite judgment. Practical takeaways for today • Approach gathered worship thoughtfully, not casually. • Build in moments to “pause after six steps”: silence, confession, Scripture reading, or songs that fix hearts on God’s holiness (Psalm 46:10). • Give God offerings that cost something—time, resources, undivided attention (Malachi 1:6-8; Romans 12:1). • Let Christ’s sacrifice remain the centerpiece of every service—every sermon, prayer, and song points back to the cross (1 Corinthians 2:2). • Expect resulting joy: reverence does not dampen celebration; it deepens it (2 Samuel 6:14; Philippians 4:4). Summing up 2 Samuel 6:13 shows that honoring God in worship means slowing down, obeying His instructions, and making costly sacrifices that spotlight His holiness and saving grace. When we worship that way, God is glorified and His people overflow with holy joy. |
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