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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.
Prayer and the Incense Altar
Sermon by Kim MyersThe altar of incense, situated in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, held profound significance as a sacred object dedicated to the Eternal. Described in Exodus 30, it was constructed of acacia wood overlaid with pure gold, measuring one cubit square at the top and two cubits high, with horns at each corner. Golden rings and poles facilitated its transport, and it was placed before the veil separating the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies, near the ark of the testimony where God's presence dwelt. Aaron was commanded to burn a specific incense on this altar each morning and at twilight as a regular offering to the Eternal, using fire taken solely from the altar of burnt offerings outside the sanctuary. God provided a unique formula for this incense, prohibiting any other mixture from being used. The altar was never to be used for burnt, grain, or drink offerings. Annually, on the Day of Atonement, the high priest cleansed it by applying blood to its horns, marking it as most holy to the Eternal. The tragic fate of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons, underscores the gravity of these instructions. As recorded in Leviticus 10, they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, contrary to His commands, and were consumed by fire from His presence, resulting in their death. This event highlights the necessity of adhering strictly to God's directives regarding the holy use of the altar. The incense's continuous burning symbolized the constant ascent of prayers to God, a theme echoed throughout Scripture. The sweet-smelling smoke, rising above the veil into the Holy of Holies and even into the courtyard, reminded the Israelites of their prayers being carried to the Eternal, emphasizing the central role of prayer in the life of God's people.
Sanctification and Holiness (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe bronze altar, made with the censers from the rebels, was a reminder of the folly of rebelling against holy things, replacing God's standards with human ones.
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.