In the biblical narrative, the concept of offering sacrifices is deeply rooted in the relationship between humanity and God. Sacrifices were instituted by God as a means for His people to express worship, gratitude, and repentance. The distinction between those who offer sacrifices and those who do not is significant in understanding the heart and obedience of individuals toward God.

Old Testament Context

The practice of offering sacrifices is first seen in the account of Cain and Abel. Abel, a keeper of sheep, offered the firstborn of his flock, while Cain, a tiller of the ground, brought an offering of the fruit of the soil. "And the LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but He had no regard for Cain and his offering" (Genesis 4:4-5). This passage highlights the importance of the heart and intention behind the offering, rather than the offering itself.

The Mosaic Law further codified the practice of sacrifices, establishing a system of burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings (Leviticus 1-7). These sacrifices were a means for the Israelites to maintain a covenant relationship with God, acknowledging their sinfulness and need for atonement. The one who offers sacrifices in accordance with God's commandments demonstrates obedience and reverence for God's holiness.

Prophetic Critique

Despite the centrality of sacrifices, the prophets often critiqued the ritualistic approach that neglected the heart's condition. Isaiah declared, "What is your multitude of sacrifices to Me? says the LORD. I am full of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of well-fed cattle; I have no delight in the blood of bulls and lambs and goats" (Isaiah 1:11). The prophets emphasized that God desires mercy, justice, and a contrite heart over mere ritual (Micah 6:6-8).

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the sacrificial system finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice. The Epistle to the Hebrews explains that the sacrifices of the Old Covenant were a shadow of the good things to come, pointing to Christ's once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:1-10). Jesus, as the Lamb of God, offered Himself to atone for the sins of humanity, rendering the old sacrificial system obsolete for atonement purposes.

The one who does not offer sacrifices in the New Testament context is not necessarily in disobedience, as the sacrificial system has been fulfilled in Christ. Instead, believers are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as praise, thanksgiving, and acts of service (Hebrews 13:15-16; Romans 12:1).

Practical Implications

The distinction between the one who offers sacrifices and the one who does not is ultimately a matter of the heart's posture before God. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were a tangible expression of faith and obedience. In the New Testament, the focus shifts to a life of spiritual worship, grounded in the sacrifice of Christ. Believers are encouraged to live sacrificially, offering their lives as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

The biblical narrative underscores that God values the heart's intention over the mere act of sacrifice. Whether in the Old or New Testament, the true offering that pleases God is one that flows from a heart of faith, love, and obedience.