“Therefore, by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrews 13:15-16).
Significant truths about sacrifices are found in the earliest pages of Scripture (Genesis 4:3-5). Abel’s sacrifice demonstrated it is possible to make a sacrifice to God which pleases Him; Cain’s sacrifice proves it is possible to make a sacrifice which displeases Jehovah. Those two truths are timeless; they still exist to this very hour.
In the days of the patriarchs and under the law of Moses, the smell of an acceptable animal sacrifice was a “soothing” (Genesis 8:21) or “sweet” (Exodus 29:18; Leviticus 1:9) aroma to God. But now, under the law of Christ, such animal sacrifices are no longer authorized. These foreshadowers of the Lamb of God have served their purpose and been fulfilled.
What then, are God’s New Testament priests to offer in their service?
Clearly, they are to present their bodies as a living sacrifice every day (Romans 12:1). Additionally, their lips are to be used to express a sacrifice of praise which is perpetually gushing from the geyser of gratitude found in their hearts. Also, their hands are to be busily engaged in doing good to others, sharing of the spiritual and material blessings which the Father of lights generously bestows upon them.
With such sacrificial living by His priests God is well pleased.
