What offerings and sacrifices are we called to bring to God today? Setting the Scene in Deuteronomy 12:11 “then you must bring everything I command you—your burnt offerings and sacrifices, your tithes and special gifts, and all the choice offerings you vow to the LORD.” (Deuteronomy 12:11) Israel was being taught that worship is on God’s terms—He chooses the place, the manner, the kind of gift. That principle still stands. The sacrificial system has been fulfilled in Christ, yet God still calls His people to bring Him offerings. Scripture now describes these as “spiritual sacrifices” that flow from hearts redeemed by Jesus. From Physical Altars to Living Altars “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) Because the final blood sacrifice has been offered at the cross, the altar has moved—from a tabernacle courtyard to the very lives of believers. We ourselves become God’s worship center, and our everyday obedience becomes the fragrance He seeks. The Offerings God Desires Today • Whole-life surrender – “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.” (Romans 12:1) – Every plan, habit, and resource placed at His disposal. • Praise and thanksgiving – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name.” (Hebrews 13:15) – Spoken, sung, written—gratitude is never optional worship. • Generous financial giving – “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give… for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) – “The gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” (Philippians 4:18) – Supporting gospel work, caring for those in need, honoring God with our income. • Acts of love and service – “Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16) – Serving the church family, meeting practical needs, showing kindness to strangers. • Obedience to His commands – “Obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams.” (1 Samuel 15:22) – Aligning daily decisions with God’s revealed will. • A repentant, humble heart – “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” (Psalm 51:17) – Quick confession, genuine sorrow over sin, confident reception of forgiveness. • Intercessory prayer – “May my prayer be set before You like incense.” (Psalm 141:2) – Lifting up others, worshiping, seeking God’s purposes on earth. • Evangelistic witness – Paul speaks of “the offering of the Gentiles, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:16) – Sharing the gospel so that new believers become an offering to the Lord. Why These Sacrifices Matter • They honor God’s worth and recognize His rightful ownership over us. • They mirror Jesus’ own self-giving, keeping His cross at the center of our lives. • They bless people and advance the kingdom, turning everyday moments into worship. Practical Steps to Bring Your Offerings • Schedule daily moments for Scripture and audible praise. • Dedicate a set portion of income to your local church and missions before other spending. • Look for one act of generous service each week—help a neighbor, encourage a weary believer, volunteer. • Keep short accounts with God: confess sin immediately, rejoice in grace, move forward. • Share your testimony; pray by name for those who need Christ. • Review plans, ambitions, and calendar quarterly, asking, “Does this belong on the altar?” The Old Testament instruction to bring sacrifices finds its fulfillment today in lives laid down, lips lifted up, hands opened wide, and hearts that beat in step with God’s own. |
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