How does Exodus 20:24 guide us in worshiping God through sacrifices today? Setting the Scene “Make for Me an altar of earth and sacrifice on it your burnt offerings and peace offerings—your sheep and goats and cattle. In every place where I cause My name to be remembered, I will come to you and bless you.” (Exodus 20:24) What the Altar Teaches Us • Earth-made, not man-exalting: God prescribed an altar “of earth,” reminding us that worship is simple, humble, and God-focused. • A meeting place: The altar was the spot where God promised, “I will come to you and bless you,” highlighting that true worship is relational, not merely ritual. • Sacrificial expectation: Burnt and peace offerings signified complete devotion (burnt) and fellowship with God (peace). Sacrifices—Then and Now • Fulfilled in Christ: Hebrews 10:10—“We have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” • Continued spiritually: Romans 12:1—“Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” • Still tangible: Hebrews 13:15–16—“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise… and do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Practical Ways to Offer Sacrifices Today • Praise and thanksgiving – Verbal worship at home, work, and church (Psalm 34:1). • Obedient living – Daily choices that align with Scripture (John 14:15). • Generous giving – Sharing resources with those in need (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Serving others – Using gifts for the body of Christ (1 Peter 4:10). • Repentance and confession – Bringing sin into the light, trusting Christ’s cleansing (1 John 1:9). The Promise: God Meets Us Where His Name Is Honored • Presence: Matthew 18:20—“Where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them.” • Blessing: 2 Chronicles 16:9—“The eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” Key Takeaways • Worship remains altar-centered—not a physical mound of dirt, but the finished work of Christ. • Sacrifice is still required—now expressed through surrendered lives, grateful lips, and loving deeds. • Wherever His name is remembered, God draws near and blesses. Live every day at that “altar of earth,” and experience the promise of His presence. |
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