How can we apply the reverence shown in Hebrews 9:4 to our worship? "It contained the golden altar of incense and the gold-covered ark of the covenant. Inside the ark were the golden jar of manna, Aaron’s staff that had budded, and the stone tablets of the covenant." Why These Details Matter - God preserved them to teach us how seriously He views His own holiness. - Each item reminds us of His provision, authority, and covenant faithfulness—foundations for reverent worship. Three Sacred Objects, Three Heart Postures 1. Golden jar of manna – Gratitude • Exodus 16:32-34: manna kept as a testimony. • Come thankful for fresh mercies (Lamentations 3:22-23). 2. Aaron’s staff that budded – Submission • Numbers 17:10: sign against rebellion. • Honor Christ, our greater High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16) and respect church order (Hebrews 13:17). 3. Stone tablets of the covenant – Obedience • Exodus 25:16: tablets at the ark’s center. • Let Scripture guide every element of worship (Colossians 3:16). Incense Before the Veil – Prayerful Awe - Golden altar stood nearest the Most Holy Place. - Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8: incense pictures prayer. - Enter gatherings already praying; offer hearts as fragrant praise. Cultivating Reverence in Corporate Worship • Prepare Saturday night—quiet schedules (Exodus 19:10-11). • Arrive early; read a psalm, settle the mind. • Sing thoughtfully (1 Corinthians 14:15). • Give offerings purposefully, trusting daily manna (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). • Receive the Word ready to obey (James 1:22). Living Reverently All Week - Thank Him at meals—remember the jar of manna. - Pray for leaders—recall Aaron’s staff (1 Timothy 2:1-2). - Read Scripture morning and night—carry the tablets in your heart (Joshua 1:8). - Schedule unhurried prayer—let incense rise continually. Closing Encouragement "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire." (Hebrews 12:28-29) |
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