10 Nov 2024
What does a healthy relationship with God look like? Numbers 7-10 presents principles of closeness to God. 1. Consecration. Israel willingly gave offerings to God on their own accord. They gave out of thankfulness to God for what they have received from Him. A healthy relationship with God will be reflected in our worship, sacrifices and giving. 2. Commemoration. God commands Israel to keep the Passover. It is important that Israel will remember God's goodness in delivering them from the slavery in Egypt. And so, a healthy relationship with God needs to be consistently maintained by remembrances of God and His gospel- in scripture, community, tokens or practices. 3. Compliance. Israel must follow God exactly as He ordains- through the pillar and the trumpets. We too must pay attention to His leadership in His word today. Nevertheless, we must not think that these 3 principles alone are enough. What we need most of all is the conversion in our hearts- that we will be born again by God's sovereign grace, and through faith in Jesus Christ. Only then, can we desire and, indeed, draw near to God.
The sermon emphasized the spiritual preparations for entering the Promised Land as detailed in Numbers 7-10. Key points included the importance of centering oneself in God, cleansing, and closeness to God. The principle of consecration was explained as giving back to God through worship and offerings, with the Israelites bringing significant offerings voluntarily. The need for commemoration was highlighted through the Passover, symbolizing remembrance of God's deliverance. Finally, compliance with God's commands was stressed, using the pillar of cloud and fire as a guide. The sermon concluded with a call for a new heart and belief in Jesus for true salvation.
Outline
Preparations for War and Spiritual Readiness
* Pastor Jason emphasizes the need for spiritual preparation over physical preparations for war, as seen in the book of Numbers.
* The Israelites are not focusing on weapons or strategies but on being centered in God and being spiritually ready.
* Chapters 1 to 10 of Numbers highlight the importance of being organized around the tent or tabernacle of God.
* The message is that the battle is the Lord's, and God alone will ensure their success in entering the Promised Land.
Principle of Consecration
* Pastor Jason introduces the principle of consecration, which involves giving or dedicating something or someone to God.
* A healthy relationship with God involves worship, giving, and service unto Him.
* The people of Israel demonstrate the necessity of consecration by bringing offerings to God, including six wagons, 12 oxen, and various cattle for sacrifice.
* These offerings are voluntary and joyful, showing appreciation for God's provisions and protection.
Understanding Consecration Beyond Offerings
* Consecration is not just about offering things but also about offering oneself to God.
* Pastor Jason explains that giving to God is not to bribe Him but because of the gospel and the gratitude for what God has done.
* The principle of consecration is reflected in the dedication of the Levites to serve God at the tabernacle.
* God takes the Levites in place of the firstborn, emphasizing the importance of giving and serving God.
Importance of Commemoration
* Pastor Jason discusses the need for commemoration to remember how much we have received from God.
* The Passover is introduced as a meal to remember God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt.
* The Passover involves keeping the memory alive by celebrating it annually and ensuring participation.
* Commemoration helps maintain a healthy relationship with God by remembering His goodness and provisions.
Principle of Compliance and Obedience
* Pastor Jason highlights the principle of compliance, which involves obedience and following God's commands.
* The Israelites are to follow the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night for direction.
* God provides both visible and audible directions through the pillar and silver trumpets.
* Compliance and obedience are essential for maintaining a close relationship with God.
Personal Anecdote and Application
* Pastor Jason shares a personal story about missing a bus and the importance of paying attention to God's guidance.
* The story illustrates the need to stay focused and follow God's lead without losing focus.
* Pastor emphasizes the importance of staying in touch with God's Word and not going off on one's own assumptions.
* The story serves as a reminder to follow God closely and not miss out on His guidance.
Conclusion and Final Message
* Pastor Jason summarizes the key lessons from chapters 7 to 10 of Numbers: centeredness in God, cleanness before God, and closeness with God.
* The Israelites' preparations for entering the Promised Land are primarily spiritual, focusing on these principles.
* Pastor warns that even with the best lessons and ordinances, a new heart is needed for true salvation.
* The message concludes with a call for repentance and belief in Jesus for true salvation and a new heart.
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