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Pentecost's Two Leavened Loaves (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe grain offering, as part of the holy day observances, includes frankincense among its ingredients, representing the fruit of the earth. This element, collected and refined, emits a pleasing aroma when heat is applied, symbolizing the beauty and value of the labor involved in its preparation. Frankincense, alongside grain and oil, highlights the offering as a product of human effort from God's bounty, dedicated to Him, yet benefiting others through the priest's portion.
Offerings (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIn the meal offering described in Leviticus 2, frankincense is a significant component, symbolizing a vital spiritual quality. It is noted that frankincense, when subjected to the heat of fire, which represents trial, releases its full fragrance, becoming more aromatic as the heat intensifies. This contrasts with honey, which breaks down and corrupts under similar conditions, explaining why honey is excluded from the offering. The spiritual teaching here focuses on attitude, particularly under adversity. A person with the quality of frankincense retains a positive outlook, faith in God, and love for others despite facing financial, health, or interpersonal trials. This enduring fragrance illustrates the ideal response to challenges in relationships with others, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a steadfast and gracious demeanor even when difficulties arise.
The Two Wave Loaves of Pentecost
Sermon by David C. GrabbeFrankincense, as part of the grain offering, represents the fruit of the earth and the labor involved in its collection and refinement. Its pleasing aroma emerges when heat is applied, symbolizing the response of the offeror under trial. This element invites reflection on whether one's service produces a pleasing aroma to God when faced with challenges. Within the grain offering, frankincense underscores the dedication and effort required in presenting the best to God and fellow man, highlighting the importance of quality in devotion and service.
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 Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering represents the second Great Commandment, love toward fellow man. Our service to others requires much grinding self-sacrifice and surrender.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Three): The Meal Offering
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering represents the fulfillment of the second great commandment, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Here is how to understand this offering.
The Offering of the Wise Men
Sermonette by John O. ReidIn our offering, we need to imitate the wise men, who knew they had been blessed by being some of the first people who had the opportunity to see Christ.
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughVarious animals were used in the burnt offering—bullocks, lambs, doves, and goats. Each depicts some characteristic of Jesus that we must emulate as we serve God.
Offering From the Heart
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamThe most significant offering ever given to a dignitary—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—was given to Jesus Christ by the magi.
How Our Joy May Be Full!
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJoy and gladness are gifts from God, resulting from Christ living His life in us and helping us to love the brethren. This love is perfected through suffering.
Imagining the Garden of Eden (Part Eight)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Garden of Eden was the perfect place for mankind to get its start, a place where Adam and Eve could become acquainted with God and developed godliness.
Matthew (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus' 28 'missing' years were spent maturing, studying, and gaining life experience to equip Him as a high priest who could relate to human struggles.
Approaching God Through Christ (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe altar of incense in the Tabernacle was designed to create a pleasing odor, representing the sweet aroma of Jesus Christ, which covers our uncleanness.
Approaching God Through Christ (Part Four)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus Christ is symbolized by the table of showbread in the Tabernacle, having gold utensils and vessels for bread and wine, symbolizing our fellowship with God.