Having treated in the preceding lectures upon faith, the knowledge of God, His character, and His unity, it now becomes necessary to consider the relationship between faith and sacrifice, and how through these the saints obtain assurance unto life and salvation.
For it is a truth clearly taught in the scriptures that no man can obtain faith unto life and salvation without sacrifice; for faith is strengthened and made perfect only through obedience that requires the offering of one’s will unto God.
It is therefore necessary that men should understand that God requires sacrifice, and that this requirement has been made known from the beginning.
For it is written that Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous. (Genesis 4:4; Hebrews 11:4)
From this it is evident that sacrifice, when offered in faith (emunah), is accepted of God, and brings with it a witness of His approval.
It is also written that Abraham was commanded to offer up his son Isaac, which was a trial of his faith, requiring him to yield that which was most precious unto him. (Genesis 22)
And by this act of obedience, Abraham demonstrated that his faith was not in word only, but in deed; and it was accounted unto him for righteousness.
From this it is evident that faith and sacrifice are inseparably connected, for faith produces obedience, and obedience requires sacrifice.
It is likewise necessary to observe that sacrifice is not limited to offerings of substance, but includes the yielding of the heart and will unto God.
For it is written: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” (1 Samuel 15:22)
And again: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart.” (Psalm 51:17)
From these testimonies it is evident that the sacrifice which God requires is the submission of the whole soul unto Him.
This submission includes obedience to His commandments (mitzvot), and a willingness to walk in His instruction (Torah), even when it requires the denial of self.
It is also necessary to understand that through such sacrifice, men obtain a knowledge that they are accepted of God.
For when a man has offered all that is required of him, and continues faithful, he receives a witness that his course is pleasing unto God.
Concerning this it is written: “If our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.” (1 John 3:21)
From this it follows that sacrifice produces assurance, and assurance strengthens faith.
It is therefore evident that those who are unwilling to sacrifice cannot obtain faith unto life and salvation, for they withhold that which is required to establish confidence in God.
It is also shown in the life of Yeshua the Messiah, who offered himself in perfect obedience to the will of God, holding nothing back, but yielding entirely to that which was required of him.
For he said: “Not my will, but thine, be done.” (Luke 22:42)
From this it is evident that the path of faith is the path of surrender, and that true emunah (faithfulness) is demonstrated in obedience unto the end.
It is likewise necessary to understand that the Spirit (ruach) of God strengthens those who are willing to walk in obedience, enabling them to endure sacrifice.
For it is written: “I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes.” (Ezekiel 36:27)
From this it is evident that God does not require sacrifice without also providing strength to fulfill it.
Therefore, sacrifice and faith operate together, for faith leads to sacrifice, and sacrifice leads to assurance, and assurance leads to the fulfillment of the promises of God.
Where men are willing to offer all that God requires, their faith becomes strong, and they are enabled to obtain the blessings which He has promised.
But where men withhold obedience, their faith remains weak, and they cannot obtain the same assurance.
It is therefore necessary that all who seek after life and salvation should be willing to sacrifice all things which God requires, that they may obtain the faith necessary to inherit His promises.
For by this principle the saints in all ages have obtained the favor of God, and without it none can receive the fullness of His blessings.
Of Theology
What is the relationship between faith and sacrifice?
A.Faith produces obedience, and obedience requires sacrifice.
Why is sacrifice necessary for faith?
A.Because without sacrifice, faith cannot be made perfect nor produce assurance.
What examples show the necessity of sacrifice?
A.Abel’s offering and Abraham’s willingness to offer Isaac.
What kind of sacrifice does God require?
A.The yielding of the heart, the submission of the will, and obedience to His commandments (mitzvot).
What does sacrifice produce in those who offer it?
A.A knowledge that they are accepted of God.
How does this knowledge affect faith?
A.It strengthens faith and produces confidence before God.
How is this principle shown in the Messiah?
A.He submitted completely to the will of God, demonstrating perfect faithfulness (emunah).
What role does the Spirit (ruach) play in sacrifice?
A.It strengthens and enables men to walk in obedience.
What is required of those who seek life and salvation?
A.That they be willing to sacrifice all things which God requires.
What is the result of such sacrifice?
A.That they obtain faith, assurance, and the promises of God.