Prior to Jesus' sacrifice, the only way to God was through the Tabernacle. At first glance, it may seem contradictory to the overwhelming grace of the cross, but if you choose to look closer, you'll see that it truly was the plan all along.
Speaker: John Pryor, Senior Minister
Notes:
God's plan is to transform us and set us free to do His will on earth. Grace and love require 100% commitment. Romans 12:1-2, Ephesians 2:10
The Tabernacle priests were consecrated at the Basin; then they had to wash their hands and feet there every time they approached the Holy Place. Once again, we see blood (atonement) and water (cleansing) playing integral parts in God's plan. There is no cheap grace.* Exodus 30:17-21, 40:11-16 & 30-32
The Tabernacle's Basin was made of melted mirrors; the Temple's Basin was called The Sea. God's perspective—no matter how incomprehensible it may be at times—is the only one that truly matters. Exodus 38:8, 1 Kings 7:23-40, Romans 6:5-11, 1 Peter 3:3-4
Jesus fulfilled the Law and the Prophets. We can approach God withconfidence. This required both blood and water. Matthew 5:17, Hebrews 4:14-16, Romans 6:1-4
We must build each other up, pray for each other, show each othermercy—even protect and rescue each other—and stay humble. 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8, 1 Corinthians 6:9-20, Jude 20-25
For a true Christ follower, true love includes helping each other to stay pure and connected to God and His will—and sin is never His will. Ephesians 5:25-26, 1 Corinthians 7
God loves hearts that are broken and repentant. He promises to give us new hearts and new spirits—then put His own Spirit in us to help us to live life His way. Psalm 51:17, Isaiah 66:2, Ezekiel 36:25-27, Acts 2:38
* Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship