Why the Need for Repetitiveness in Worship?

I have never understood why there is such a detailed and repetitive description of offerings made at the anointing of the altar and its dedication when the tabernacle was set up (see Numbers 7:10–88). But there must be a purpose in all that the Spirit of God has recorded in Scripture.

First and foremost it was in response to God’s command (v. 11). It therefore is an example of joyous obedience.

Secondly, God wanted the offerings to be brought every day. There were animals for sacrifice to be used in the altar of burnt offerings and also incense to be used at the altar of incense. The first altar should remind us that Jesus became a sin offering for us on the cross (2 Cor. 5:21). The second altar should likewise remind us that Jesus ever lives to make intercession for us (Hen. 7:25). Let us live in daily remembrance of these truths.

Thirdly, it was the leader’s responsibility to bring the offering. Whether you are a leader in your church or family, a greater responsibility rests on you to show those you lead how to worship God acceptably.

Again, this repetitive process covering a span of twelve days would impress in any observer’s mind the importance God attached to worshipping God as a community. We believers, today, are the body of Jesus Christ (Romans 12:5) And God desires all to come together in unity of purpose and bring your contribution in terms of time, talent, treasure, and gifts of the Spirit to edify the body of believers and build up the church (1 Cor. 12:12).

Finally, though sometimes it seems boring to read this repetitive and lengthy account, think about the descendants of these tribes who would read about how their forefathers brought these offerings to God. It should encourage us to note that God who takes note of the hop of a small and insignificant sparrow (Matthew 10:29), and who takes note of a poor widow’s two very small copper coins (Luke 21:2, 3); also keeps a careful record of all your labour of love towards him!

Insight
Bible says “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” and then another verse that follows it later says “Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.”

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