Keep Your Money

(Pro 15:8 KJV) The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

Something I hear as I visit churches is a release from contributing to the offering that is given toward visitors. I have always thought this was a legitimate part of being “seeker friendly.” This verse gives the real reason why such a release is important. This verse puts it in OT language.

The most important reason to visit the temple was to offer a “sacrifice” (2077). This was a ritual that was intended to serve several purposes. It spoke of admitting to being a sinner and needing forgiveness. It was public. It cost money. Although it was an action, it was based on faith. Some people deny that this animal sacrifice had any real value but the OT repeatedly says that it brought atonement. Here is one example:

(Lev 5:10 KJV) And he shall offer the second for a burnt offering, according to the manner: and the priest shall make an atonement for him for his sin which he hath sinned, and it shall be forgiven him.

Notice that it clearly states that his sin will be forgiven. I would still say that this is ultimately because of the blood of Christ.

Sacrifice is not only worthless if you are a non-believer, but it is an “abomination” (8441). For the “so-called brother” who attends and gives but does not really believe I would say this is also a warning. Giving becomes a form of mocking God. I don’t know if you saw the movie “Lilies of the Field.” One scene stands out in my mind. The man who has been conned into rebuilding the chapel is talking to the owner of the bar who has said he does not believe in God. He has just made a large contribution to the rebuilding. He is asked why he donated if he did not believe. He shrugged and said, “Insurance.” God does not honor insurance from another company. There seem to be many places where the Bible points out that the goal of God is not sacrifices. Recent reading of Micah 6 leading up to verse 8 is one example.