Spiritual Sacrifices
Hebrews 13:10-16
In the passage for our lesson we learn that even though we are in the Church Age and Levitical priesthood has been done away with, we are still said to offer sacrifices. These sacrifices are not atonements for sin or even animal sacrifices. But they are still very important for us today. In this lesson we are going to look at two spiritual sacrifices found in this passage and ask ourselves the question, are we doing this sacrifices?
Why should we offer sacrifices?
As stated above the Levitical priesthood is no longer needed to day thanks to our High Priest, Jesus Christ. But it is interesting to note that we are said to be priest in connection to Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:9 ; Revelation 1:6 ; Revelation 5:10)
What are the two spiritual sacrifices found in the passage?
1) The sacrifice of praise to God (verse 15)
- This sacrifice is also defined in the passage as “the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name”. Compare this with (Psalm 107:22 ; Psalm 116:17).
- It seems that praising the Lord along with recognizing and praises his works is a sacrifice, but note that giving thanks is also connected with the sacrifice.
- The first time we see the word “sacrifice” in the bible it is connected with a sacrifice (Leviticus 7:12).
- Why is it a sacrifice to give thanks? Because it is humbling to thank someone else for doing something that you could not do, it places them in a position of superiority over you.
2) To communicate and do good works (verse 16)
- The word communicate here is being used as manner of life or actions that we do (1 Peter 3:1-2).
- Paul instructed us regarding good works in Galatians 6:10 and Titus 3:14.
The question for us then becomes are we offering up these sacrifices and if not why? Because as our passage says, God is well pleased with these sacrifices.
Spiritual Sacrifices : Handout
Hebrews 13:10-16
1) What is something unique that is found in the passage for this lesson?
2) Why are we to offer sacrifices?
3) What are the two sacrifices that we should be offering according to this passage?