How can we apply the concept of sacredness from Exodus 37:29 today? Setting the Scene “ He also made the sacred anointing oil and the pure, fragrant incense—the work of a perfumer.” (Exodus 37:29) What Made the Oil and Incense “Sacred”? • They were crafted exactly as God prescribed (Exodus 30:22-33). • They were set apart exclusively for God’s dwelling place, the tabernacle. • Their formula was not to be duplicated for common use (Exodus 30:37-38). • They symbolized the unique presence and holiness of the LORD among His people. Timeless Principles of Sacredness • Sacredness begins with God’s command, not human creativity. • What God declares “set apart” must stay distinct. • Holiness carries a fragrance—something recognizable and attractive (2 Corinthians 2:15). • Sacred objects (then) point to sacred lives (now) empowered by Christ. Practical Ways to Live Sacredly Today 1. Consecrate Ordinary Things – Time: Give God the “firstfruits” of each day (Psalm 5:3). – Resources: Budget generosity toward the kingdom first (Proverbs 3:9). 2. Guard the Exclusivity of Worship – Resist mixing biblical worship with pagan or self-centered practices (2 Corinthians 6:14-17). – Keep communion, baptism, and Scripture reading distinctive, reverent, and Christ-focused. 3. Cultivate a Fragrant Testimony – Words seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6). – Lifestyle that points others upward, not inward (Matthew 5:16). 4. Honor Your Body as God’s Temple – “You are not your own; you were bought at a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). – Choices about health, sexuality, and media intake reflect sacred ownership. 5. Maintain Spiritual Boundaries – Set limits on entertainment that dulls sensitivity to holiness (Psalm 101:3). – Preserve the Lord’s Day as distinct, refreshing, and God-centered (Hebrews 10:25). Guarding the Sacred in a Secular World • Identify and remove “common” intrusions that crowd out devotion (James 4:4). • Surround yourself with fellowship that values holiness (Hebrews 3:13). • Keep short accounts with God through confession and repentance (1 John 1:9). Encouragement to Savor the Sacred Because Christ fulfilled every shadow of the tabernacle, He invites believers into a life where the ordinary is infused with divine purpose (Hebrews 10:19-22). Living sacredly today means letting His Spirit craft the “fragrance” of Christ in us, so the world senses something set apart, beautiful, and wholly His. |
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