Daily Devotions
Psalms
Psalm 50:13 "Will I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats?"
Day 102 – Psalm 50
“Will I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats?” Psalm 50:13
THE ORIGINAL IDEA OF WORSHIP
The original idea of worship did include animal sacrifice. It was God who instituted and established this worship system for ancient Israel (Leviticus 1-7). However, a careful reading of the Levitical text would reveal a number of vital truths.
1. The problem of sin
The original idea behind animal sacrifices provided a platform to teach Israel about the problem of sin.
a) Sin was a violation of the laws of God.
b) Sin harmed the human soul.
c) Sin would also hurt vital human relationships.
2. The solution God offered in the animal sacrificial system
a) God would provide atonement for sin.
b) He would forgive the sinner.
c) There would be restoration of relationship between man and God.
THE DANGER OF DEGENERATION OF WORSHIP
This was the problem with Israel’s understanding and practice of worship. Israel virtually thought that God was being fed through animal sacrifice. This was a prevalent thought perpetuated by Israel’s idolatrous neighbours. God had to refute this line of erroneous theological thought.
“If I were hungry, I would not tell you;
For the world is Mine, and all its fullness.
Will I eat the flesh of bulls,
Or drink the blood of goats?”
Psalm 50:12-13
1. Rhetorical questions
The answer was obvious!
2. Israel had forgotten a basic piece of knowledge about God
The whole world was His by right of Creatorship! How did Israel degenerate to this extent that it thought that God enjoyed feasting on flesh, and indulged in the drinking of animal blood?