What comes to mind when I say the word ‘sacred?’ What about the word ‘holy?’ Usually these words come with a sense of caution, humility, and reverence. Sacred things are special, set apart, held in high regard, different from normal things. How is it seen when someone blatantly disregards or defiles something sacred? When someone does something unseemly or gross in a special place, like a church? It shows a lack of respect, a lack of sense, an unwarranted boldness. In the Bible we have a startling story in relation to this topic, where something sacred was treated without due reverence and caution. This is the story of Nadab and Abihu. Nadab and Abihu were the sons of Aaron, the priest, and they were chosen to minister in the sanctuary service before the Lord with their father. God had just specified all of the exact particulars in which He was to be served and worshiped, and it was their ‘first day on the job,’ so to speak. The Bible describes how Aaron performed all of th...
Repentance is a central theme in the Bible, and, more importantly, it is a prerequisite of salvation. With that being said, what is repentance? Well, the biblical term literally means, “to change one’s mind.” It is frequently used in the Bible to signify a decision made by an individual or nation to change their allegiance from serving self and sin, to serving God. But, if it is so important, we want to make sure we do it right. The Bible warns us about the difference between genuine and false repentance. So then, what does this genuine repentance look like practically? Well I’m glad you asked. This article will look at the steps involved in genuine repentance: Deep Sorrow for Sin True repentance involves a deep sorrow for sin, realizing that we have despised the Holy One, our Father, and dishonored Him. We have been unfaithful, like an adulterer, and sought for fulfillment in something other than Him. We have broken His heart, caused Him pain and suffering, and ultimately the...