Sacrifices

Children learn to make amends when they’ve done something wrong—a necessary social skill because they (and we) will never escape sinful human nature. Perhaps this is why we tend to view God as a stern judge—and think we have to appease Him with sacrifices.

The Israelites literally sacrificed animals to pay the penalty for their sin. We don’t offer cattle or goats today, but we often think we must give up material possessions—or give up having a good time.

Even in the Old Testament, Scripture taught that God does not appreciate sacrifices that come from a desire to appease—a desire to earn favor. Sacrifices should come out of gratitude from a heart that has received and appreciated God’s favor.

A psalmist spoke for God when he wrote, I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens . . . He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me, and he prepares the way so that I may show him the salvation of God. (Ps. 50:9,23 NIV)

God’s blessings—i.e., favor—do not come because we sacrifice but because He loves us and gives Himself to us.

Originally published June 15, 1984.