STATUS: NEW ARTICLE
Abstract
In this article we are dealing with the very important subject that finds its theme in the New Testament and that is the pleasure of God and the sacrifices. As we study, we are going to learn how the sacrifice of Christ is of great value and in Him alone the LORD God is pleased.
INTRODUCTION
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise (Ps 51:16-17, NIV).
This is the confession of David after he was confronted for the act of adultery. It is evident in this Psalm that David was indeed broken over his own sins. Not only does David recognize that forgiveness is from God, he also acknowledges the pleasure of God in brokenness not sacrifices.
Contrite: feeling or expressing remorse at the recognition that one has done wrong.[1]
With this there is a proclamation of humility of the worshiper of God. One of the ways humility expresses itself in its manifold expressions is:
- Toward others we consider others as better than ourselves (Phil 2:3).
- Toward God we regard God as God and obey Him. Pride would be the opposite of this. “Yet they say to God, ‘Leave us alone! We have no desire to know your ways. Who is the Almighty, that we should serve him? What would we gain by praying to him?’ (Job 21:14-15).”
- When one is convicted of sin, he/she feels sorry and sees the grace of God as the means of restoration to God and others (James 4:4-10).[2]
Comfort that the soul gets from God is that He is pleased in such a one who seek restoration from God when convicted of sin. The verse exalts us to such a life before God.
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. (Ps 51:10-12, NIV)
WHY THEN DID GOD GIVE HIS PEOPLE THE LAW THAT REQUIRED THE SACRFICES WHICH HE DID NOT TAKE PLEASURE IN?
“You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.”
Concerning the sacrifices, one would ask why then did God give the law to his people which required such sacrifices which he did not take pleasure in?
First is the motive that God requires when he commanded His people to offer such sacrifices:
[1] “Contrite,” accessed October 15, 2021, https://www.google.com/search?q=contrite&rlz=1C1GCEU_enNL890NL890&oq=contrite&aqs=chrome.0.69i59j0i512l9.2194j1j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
[2] Borrowed list with verses added to it.
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