What New Testament passages connect with the concept of continual offerings to God? Exodus 29:42—A Perpetual Meeting Place “For the generations to come this burnt offering is to be made regularly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting before the LORD; there I will meet you to speak with you.” (Exodus 29:42) - “Regularly” (Hebrew tamid) points to an unbroken rhythm. - The smoke invited continual fellowship; God met His people where sacrifice was ongoing. Christ—The Once-for-All Sacrifice That Opens Continual Access - Hebrews 10:12 — “But when this Priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, He sat down at the right hand of God.” - Ephesians 5:2 — “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant sacrificial offering to God.” The daily lambs anticipated the cross; His finished work now keeps the way permanently open. Believers as Living, Ongoing Offerings 1. Romans 12:1 “Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” 2. 1 Peter 2:5 “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” Every hour becomes “altar time” as we yield thoughts, words, and deeds. Continual Praise—New-Covenant Incense “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name.” “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in every circumstance…” Prayers of the saints ascend with heavenly incense. Unceasing gratitude replaces the literal firepan; our lips keep the fragrance rising. Gifts and Service—A Fragrant Offering “The gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” “That the Gentiles might become an acceptable offering, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.” Service overflows “in many expressions of thanks to God.” Generosity, evangelism, and mercy echo the daily lamb by meeting needs and honoring God. Perpetual Intercession—Christ and His People “He always lives to intercede for them.” Epaphras “always wrestling in prayer” for the church. Jesus’ ongoing priestly ministry inspires steady prayer from His body. Putting It Together - Exodus 29:42 set the pattern of relentless worship. - Christ fulfills the atoning side once for all. - The “continual” aspect persists through: • consecrated lives (Romans 12:1) • nonstop praise (Hebrews 13:15) • generous service (Philippians 4:18) • steadfast prayer (Revelation 8:3-4) Thus the altar’s smoke still rises—now from hearts, hands, and voices devoted to God every day. |
    |