Filter by Categories
Prayer and the Incense Altar
Sermon by Kim MyersIncense in the sanctuary serves as a profound symbol of prayer, reflecting the deep connection between God's people and the Eternal. As recorded, David prayed that his prayer be set before God like incense, illustrating this association. In visions of heaven, elders around the throne hold golden bowls full of incense, representing the prayers of God's people. Similarly, while Zacharias the priest offered incense in the Temple, the assembled worshippers prayed outside, linking the act of burning incense with communal prayer. The altar of incense, situated in the Holy Place, symbolizes the prayers of God's people ascending to Him as the smoke rises in the sanctuary. The continuous burning of incense on this altar signifies that prayer should be unceasing, a constant offering to the Eternal. The incense, kindled by fire from the altar of burnt offerings, suggests that our prayers must be ignited by God's grace to be acceptable. This altar, considered most holy to the Eternal, was atoned for with sacrificial blood, underscoring the sanctity of prayer. The fragrant smoke from the incense, rising above the veil into the Holy of Holies and even outside into the Tabernacle court, reminded the people offering sacrifices that their prayers were continually carried to God. Thus, the altar of incense in the wilderness Tabernacle emphasized that prayer must play a central role in the life of God's people, a principle that remains vital for daily spiritual practice.
What Is Prayer?
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPrayer to a tool we must learn to use. Because we take on the characteristics of those we are around, we should keep company with God continually though prayer.
Holy for the Lord
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsIncense symbolizes the prayers of the saints. Our offerings, as our prayers, should remain holy for the Lord, exuding a fragrant aroma.
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.
Silence in Heaven (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhen the Seventh Seal opens, all activity in heaven appears to stop as the heavenly realm turns its attention to what comes next, pausing in silent anticipation.
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.
Silence in Heaven (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhat is the connection between the prayers that ascend to God and the angel hurling the censer down to earth, initiating the seven trumpets in Revelation 8?
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.
Sanctification and Holiness (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn Numbers 16-18, God performed several miracles to demonstrate conclusively that not everyone is called to the same function and that He remains the Boss.
Caveats About Self-Examination
Sermon by David F. MaasWe must be very careful how we examine ourselves. Taking the Passover in an unworthy manner can result in serious physical or spiritual hazards.
Worship and Culture (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhat kind of worship will God accept? To answer this, it is necessary to know the scriptural principles that apply because God does not accept all offerings.
Who Are the Twenty-four Elders (Revelation 4:4)?
Bible Questions & AnswersThe twenty-four elders are not redeemed human beings because no man except Jesus Christ (John 3:13) has ascended to heaven where God's throne is.