How can we offer "spiritual sacrifices" acceptable to God through Jesus Christ? Setting the Scene “...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.” (1 Peter 2:5) Seeing Ourselves as Priests – In the Old Testament, priests mediated between God and people with animal sacrifices. – Now, every believer in Christ is part of “a holy priesthood.” – We still bring offerings—but they are spiritual, not animal or grain. Defining “Spiritual Sacrifices” 1. Our Bodies and Daily Choices • Romans 12:1 — “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” • Every decision, habit, and attitude can be laid on the altar. 2. Praise and Thanksgiving • Hebrews 13:15 — “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name.” • Gratitude in all circumstances becomes incense before Him. 3. Good Works and Generosity • Hebrews 13:16 — “Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • Philippians 4:18 calls financial support for ministry “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice.” 4. Repentant Hearts • Psalm 51:17 — “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” • Genuine confession and humility keep the altar aflame. 5. Prayerful Intercession • Revelation 8:3–4 pictures prayers rising like incense, received by God. • Time spent in intercession is priestly ministry. How They Become “Acceptable…Through Jesus Christ” – Jesus is both the High Priest and the spotless Lamb (Hebrews 4:14; John 1:29). – Our offerings pass through His perfect merit; He transforms flawed efforts into pleasing worship. – Abiding in Him (John 15:5) keeps the flow unbroken. Practical Steps for Today • Begin each morning by surrendering your day (Romans 12:1). • Schedule moments to speak or sing praise aloud (Hebrews 13:15). • Look for a tangible way to serve or give daily (Hebrews 13:16). • Keep short accounts with God—confess quickly (Psalm 51:17). • Set aside focused prayer slots, lifting others before the throne (Revelation 8:3–4). Living Stones in Action When these elements weave into ordinary life, the “spiritual house” Peter describes comes alive. Each believer becomes a glowing stone, and together we display the glory of God—offering sacrifices He gladly receives through His Son. |
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