Lecture Notes: "Don't Alter the Altar"

Introduction

• Welcome and Purpose:
  • Welcome attendees and emphasize the life-changing message.
  • Encouragement to sow a seed in response to God's message.
  • Key Scripture: Exodus 20:22-25.

Main Scripture: Exodus 20:22-25

• God's Command to Israel:
  • Do not make gods of silver or gold.
  • Build an altar of earth and use uncut stones.
  • Importance of purity and sincerity in worship.

Language and Contextual Understanding

• Complexity of English:
  • English language mechanics can be challenging.
  • Words with multiple meanings and pronunciations.
  • Example with "wind" (noun vs. verb) and "your" vs. "you're."

Sermon Topic: "Don't Alter the Altar"

• Definition of "Altar" vs. "Alter":
  • Altar: Place for sacrifices and meeting with God.
  • Alter: To change or modify.
  • Importance of maintaining the sacredness of the altar.

Purpose and Significance of Altars

• Biblical Examples of Altars:

  • Noah and the first altar in Genesis 8:20.
  • Abraham's sacrifice on the altar.
  • Altars in biblical theology signify sacrifice and meeting with God.

• Types of Altars in Scripture:

  • Burnt Offering: Atonement for sins.
  • Incense: Prayer and intercession.
  • Repentance: Rededication and repentance.
  • Covenant and Renewal: Affirming God's covenant.

God's Instructions on Building Altars

• Purity of Altars:
  • Uncut stones represent God's natural creation.
  • Man's interference profanes the sanctity of altars.
  • Avoid cultural influences when constructing altars.

Reflections on Modern Worship

• Innovations in Worship:

  • Modern worship should not focus on performance.
  • Worship should be about genuine connection with God, not personal preference.

• Obedience Over Sacrifice:

  • Importance of obedience in worship and altar building.
  • Offerings and sacrifices must be rooted in obedience to be acceptable.

Altar as a Personal Experience

• Building Personal Altars:
  • Create personal altars as places of surrender and change.
  • Importance of moving past old victories and building new altars.
  • Encouragement to let go of expired dreams and trust God for new ones.

Conclusion

• Call to Action:

  • Invitation to build personal altars and experience transformation.
  • Encouragement to embrace change and obedience in worship.

• Closing Prayer:

  • Pray for church leadership and the congregation.
  • Emphasize unity and support within the church community.

Final Encouragement

• Sowing a Seed:
  • Encouragement to sow a seed in faith.
  • Highlight the impact of generosity in fulfilling the church's mission.