Scripture to Read: Exodus 20:24
God gave the Israelites some specific instructions about the altar they should build where they would perform their sacrifices. God said in Exodus 20:24, “You shall make an altar of earth for Me, and you shall sacrifice on it your burnt offerings and your peace offerings, your sheep and your oxen; in every place where I cause My name to be remembered, I will come to you and bless you.” God wanted the altar made of earth. Then He began to explain all the different sacrifices they would bring to Him. They would offer God their burnt offerings and peace offerings, and they would be using their sheep, goats, and cattle. Many people wonder why the Israelites never ate their herds while in the wilderness. Remember, God provided them manna and quail to eat, but God never told them to eat of their herds. The answer is that the Israelites were to use their herds as offerings to God so that God would overlook their sins. With over two million people, hundreds of thousands of sacrifices would have been made to God. This is just another reminder of why the blood of Christ is so precious. Christ's blood cleanses us once and for all from all sin—the blood of animals could never do that. God knew He would be moving the Israelites, so, as they moved, they must build another altar. God was making sure His name would be remembered, and then He also promised the Israelites that He would bless them. Blessings always follow obedience (James 1:25).
Challenge & Application
· We no longer have to build altars for sacrifices, but how do you give back to God through what He’s given you?
· Christ’s blood sacrifice was perfect; so, how would you tell someone why we don’t have to sacrifice animals anymore?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!