“SACRIFICE OF PRAISE”

“Through him, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.”

Hebrews 13:15

The term “sacrifice of praise” is often used by worship leaders to encourage worshipers to verbally express their gratitude, adoration, and worship to God. “But why are ‘sacrifice’ and ‘praise’ used in the same sentence?” God willing, we’ll try to give a biblical answer to this question.

This section of Hebrews 13 contains practical applications of the instructions discussed in chapters 1-9. The writer often uses Old Testament quotes to make his point, mainly because his original audience was Jewish and well-versed in the OT teachings.

The readers tried to continue as believers but wanted to escape the persecution that came with being identified with Christ. During that period, being recognized as a Christian came at a price: severe abuse to the point of losing the ability to earn money. In worse cases, some even got arrested and martyred.

However, despite those threats, the writer heartened his readers to remain steadfast and always articulate their praise to God. Given the situation they were in, proclaiming “Praise the Lord” was not as harmless as it is today. Acknowledging their allegiance to Christ would cost them their life of comfort and ease. That’s why praising God was sacrificial for them.

With an understanding of their circumstances, it must’ve been quite challenging for them to praise God. They were suffering but needed to realize that as Christians, they had to choose between what was comfortable and what was necessary. 

The writer’s persuasion makes sense because believers put their trust in a Messiah who sacrificed Himself to purchase their freedom from the shackles of sin. Just as the Savior gave up His life for them, they must live for Him.

Jesus’ one-time sacrifice on the Cross eliminated the need for the OT way of offering sacrifices to God with animal blood. The Lord was not pleased with the animal sacrifices of a person with an unrepentant heart.

A sacrifice of praise means choosing to trust God even when life isn’t going as we planned. It believes that God remains God, and all He does is good. When we praise Him despite the trials and hardships, our faith grows, and God receives the glory.

As a follower of Christ, you are privileged to live in this age of God’s grace. Jesus made you a priest in His Name (1 Peter 2:5-9), so, you have reasons to praise and thank God. Because of what Jesus had accomplished, you can come to the very throne of God and offer your sacrifice of praise and be approved.

Pursue the Saviour today!