Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Sweeping out Some Sacred Space

Deuteronomy 12

What is your favorite place in the whole world and why?

Describe what God wants Israel to do to the religious institutions of the Promised Land when they enter there. What was there about Canaanite religion that God was so intolerant about? Why would those things upset him so much? What needs to change in your spiritual attitudes, values, and beliefs because they are displeasing to God?

What was to happen at the place that God selected for the Israelites? Why do you think there was only going to be one place like this? What are some special worship times and places God has selected for you in your life? How can we ensure our worship times have a deeper impact on our everyday lives?

Describe the different kinds of sacrifices mentioned in the chapter. Why are sacrifices given such a prominent place in worship in the Old Testament? What kinds of offerings does God desire from us today?

What is the process necessary for eating non-sacrificial meat? Why does God give such specific instructions concerning their menu? Obviously, Jesus frees us from the dietary restrictions of the law, but based on these principles how might God want your menu to change?

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