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The Sacrifice of Praise
Article by Martin G. CollinsAs spirit beings in the Kingdom of God, we are called to serve as kings and priests with Christ, and among our priestly duties is the offering of spiritual sacrifices. A spiritual sacrifice is an act of giving up and offering to God our time and effort in a way that is pleasing to Him. Such sacrifices must be offered in an attitude of obedience, humility, and reverence to be acceptable to Him. Praising God is a vital spiritual sacrifice. By Him, let us continually offer the sacrifices of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. Sincerely offering praise to God is an acceptable sacrifice that pleases Him, serving as a form of spiritual worship that helps us stay focused on Him. Praise can be expressed in various forms such as singing, playing musical instruments, dancing, speaking, or praying, provided they are based on spiritual truths and presented in humility. As a royal priesthood in training, we are required to proclaim the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. Offering up the spiritual sacrifice of praise to God is a serious duty, not to be taken lightly. We must praise Him continually with a sincere and dedicated attitude, acknowledging His innumerable attributes and characteristics, such as His purity, righteousness, power, uniqueness, faithfulness, and involvement in His plan of salvation. Praising the Eternal for His name and His goodness is also a spiritual sacrifice, recognizing His many names that reflect His nature. Our mental attitude is critically important in properly praising the Eternal. Without the right attitude, our praises are unacceptable to the Almighty, but acceptable sacrifices of praise are pleasing to Him. The spiritual sacrifice of praise is an act of offering to God acknowledgment of His attributes, helping us to stay focused on Him. Our duty as a royal priesthood is to continually offer this spiritual sacrifice of praise to God.
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 5)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering represents the intense self-sacrifice required in service to man. Our service to man must be done for God's sake rather than man's appreciation.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Five): The Peace Offering, Sacrifice, and Love
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe peace offering teaches many things, but one of its main symbols is fellowship. Our communion with the Father and the Son obligates us to pursue peace.
Offerings Still Relevant
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist's sacrifice was both a sacrifice (fulfilling the law, which requires the shedding of blood for expiation from sin) and an offering (freely given).
An Offering Made By Fire
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughIn I Peter 2:5-9, God's people are called a chosen generation and a royal priesthood, God's own distinctive people, commissioned to offer sacrifices.
Rejoice and Serve!
Sermonette by Bill OnisickConsuming second tithe (not within our gates) is understood to be for foodstuffs, for entertaining spiritual siblings, and making them happy and joyful.
Made By Fire
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughWe are a kingdom of priests, called to be living sacrifices, ardently serving God, with a view of being consumed or used up in service to Him.
Sugar Cookie
Sermonette by Bill OnisickNavy Seal training has a humbling 'sugar cookie' exercise in which trainees are arbitrarily forced to endure excruciating discomfort and humiliation.
The Meaning of the Offering
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The New Covenant sacrifices are far more demanding than the Old Covenant sacrifices. But there are poignant lessons to be learned from animal sacrifices.
Preparing to Be a Priest
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe primary function of a priest is to assist people in accessing God so that there can be unity with God. A priest is a bridge-builder between man and God.
Offerings (Part Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIf we want to follow Christ, we must sacrifice, take up our cross, and follow His example of service to God and others.
Offerings (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe peace offering symbolizes the abundant life that results from complete devotion to God (the burnt offering) and service to others (the meal offering).
The Priesthood of God (Part Ten) Conclusion
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)As future priests, we are going to be given rigorous, hands-on jobs to teach people righteousness and holiness, distinguishing between the sacred and profane.
The Presence of the Eternal
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsOur offerings should consist of prayer, service to others, as well as material or monetary contributions, reflecting our gratitude for blessings.
Numbers (Part Three): Poised at the Jordan
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe last chapters in Numbers describe a lengthy holding pattern in which not much seemed to happen. We must have patience as we wait for the Kingdom of God.