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Why Wasn't Jesus Christ Crucified at the Start of Passover?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeJesus was crucified late on Abib 14, yet the Passover lambs were to be killed at the beginning of the 14th. The time of Christ's death is highly significant.
Passover (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod provided specific instructions for the morning and evening sacrifices as part of the sacrificial system established with the Aaronic priesthood and the tabernacle. The morning sacrifice is to be offered at boqer, and the evening sacrifice at ben ha arbayim, covering both parts of the day. These offerings, including meal, drink, and incense offerings, represent a spiritual component akin to prayer and study, symbolizing an approach to God at the start and end of the day. However, the timing of these sacrifices was not always followed as instructed, with the evening offering often made in the afternoon rather than at ben ha arbayim. This deviation illustrates a loss of understanding and discernment that comes from disobedience to God's commands. In the broader context of God's detailed instructions for the tabernacle and priesthood, these daily sacrifices underscore the importance of consistent devotion and obedience in maintaining a relationship with Him.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod has given detailed and insistent instructions for the ceremonial responsibilities of the priesthood, emphasizing their importance through severe consequences for disobedience. As a royal priesthood under the New Covenant, the church is tasked with offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. These sacrifices, though no longer physical offerings at a temple, retain their symbolic significance and must be performed daily, mirroring the morning and evening duties of the Old Covenant priests. The church, in training for a future formal installation at Christ's return, is expected to draw near to God continually, fulfilling these priestly functions with the same dedication as required in the past. Every act of life is to be an act of worship, a living sacrifice to God, reflecting His praises through both private devotion and public witness. This ongoing commitment involves prayer, study, and meditation, ensuring that the spiritual essence of the morning and evening sacrifices is woven into the fabric of daily service to Him.
Final Words of Jesus on the Cross
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaWhen Jesus was nailed to the cross at the third hour, which is 9:00 AM, it coincided with the time of the morning sacrifice. This timing reflects a significant connection to the sacrificial practices. Later, from noon to 3:00 PM, a profound darkness covered the land, marking the latter hours of His crucifixion. During this period, the suffering and mockery continued, yet His focus remained on others, embodying love and intercession. His ultimate sacrifice, as He bore the sins of the world, culminated in the shedding of His blood, poured out on the ground as a covering for sin. This act of sacrifice, aligning with both morning and evening hours of His ordeal, underscores the depth of His redemptive work for all who repent.
Purpose-Driven Churches (Part 8)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the context of significant events and divine instructions, the use of trumpets among the Israelites was deeply meaningful, particularly in relation to sacrifices made morning and evening. As outlined in Numbers 10:10, trumpets were to be blown during the daily burnt and peace offerings at the Tabernacle and Temple, marking these moments as significant before God. These instruments, blown only by priests in the performance of their sacred duties, were as integral to the sanctuary as the Ark of the Covenant or the Incense Altar, signifying their sanctified role in worship. The sounding of the trumpets at these daily sacrifices served as a reminder of God's presence, akin to a prayer offered at the start and end of the day, ensuring that both the people and God were mindful of their covenant relationship. This act of blowing the trumpets during the morning and evening sacrifices symbolized a continuous connection with the Divine, reinforcing the spiritual significance of these daily rituals.