Hebrews 13:15-16 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. 16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
The sacrifice we bring to God is not the blood of bulls and goats. We do not need to sacrifice animals anymore because Jesus has become our final and perfect sacrifice. He made atonement once and for all. The offer of salvation and holiness is available to anyone who will follow God’s promises in Jesus. The response of the redeemed should be praise. That is the sacrifice God desires. This is no different than in the Old Testament, as the prophet Hosea said, “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6). Praise is the response of those who profess the name of Jesus. Our hearts, minds, and voices out to speak forth the praises of God who has saved us from sin and death.
Our praise to God shows God’s salvation and work in us. Our response to people should be to do good to them and share with them. Rather than bring animals to be sacrificed, we can spend our money on helping those in need. God does not need the blood of animals but only desires that we give ourselves to him in personal and living sacrifices (Romans 12:1-2). When we give ourselves totally to him, then God will send us out in mission to care for others. Some people get so holy in themselves that they forget to care for those in need. It is easier to sit in church and sing songs and listen to a sermon than to go out in the world and help people. But that is what God wants of us. Praise should lead to service.
For older posts, click here.