Spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God

The Apostle Peter wrote his first epistle to "God's elect, strangers in the world." He informs his readers that they are "a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." Every Christian is a priest ( I Peter 2: 5,9; Revelation 1:6).

Unlike the old covenant with its separate priesthood, the new covenant frees up all believers to be priests offering up "acceptable sacrifices."

What are "acceptable sacrifices?" Your bodies in service to God. "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God." Romans 12:1

Your praise. "Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise." Hebrews 13:15.

Your benevolence. "And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." Hebrews 13:16

Your financial support of the ministry. "I have received from Epaphrodites the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, and acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God." Philippians 4:18

Your evangelistic efforts. The Apostle Paul was "a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles with the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit." Romans 15"16

How well are you performing your priestly duties?

• Ken Haskins is pastor of First Christian Church in Carson City