The Altar and the Sledgehammer - Hanukkah 2017

 

The Altar and the Sledgehammer - Hanukkah 2017

Teaching Summary

This teaching from Founded in Truth Ministries, delivered by Matthew Vander Els, uses the historical backdrop of Hanukkah to explore the theme of new creation and the necessity of removing old, defiled "altars" in our lives to experience the fullness of God's presence and purpose. Vander Els connects the Maccabees' decision to tear down and rebuild the profaned altar in the Temple with the spiritual transformation that believers undergo in Christ. He argues that clinging to past shame and guilt, even after accepting forgiveness, can hinder intimacy with God and prevent the construction of a new life characterized by righteousness and holiness.

 

Applying the Teaching to Everyday Life

Vander Els emphasizes the following key actions to incorporate this teaching into daily life:

• Identify and Tear Down "Altars of Shame": Reflect on past experiences or sin that continue to evoke feelings of shame or guilt. Recognize that these lingering emotions can create a barrier between you and God.
• Embrace God's Forgiveness: Meditate on scriptures like 1 John 1:9, which assures believers that God is faithful and just to forgive those who confess their sins. Choose to believe God's forgiveness over condemning thoughts or voices.
• Put on the New Self: Focus on your identity as a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Vander Els emphasizes that God does not want you to be defined by your past but rather by the righteousness and holiness He has given you through Jesus.
• Walk in Freedom: Once you have torn down the old altars of shame, refuse to allow them to be rebuilt. Resist the temptation to dwell on past mistakes or allow the enemy to use them against you. Embrace the freedom and joy that comes from knowing you are fully forgiven and accepted by God.
• Let Your Light Shine: As you experience the liberating power of new creation in your own life, allow that transformation to overflow into your interactions with others. Be a source of light and hope in a dark world, pointing others to the freedom found in Jesus.

 

References and Biblical Passages

Vander Els draws on both the historical and biblical context of Hanukkah to support his teaching:

• Hanukkah: The Jewish festival celebrating the rededication of the Temple after it was defiled by Antiochus IV Epiphanes. Vander Els highlights the Maccabees' choice to rebuild the altar, emphasizing the importance of removing anything that could hinder the restoration of God's presence (1 Maccabees 4:52-59).
• Antiochus IV Epiphanes: The Seleucid king who defiled the Temple in Jerusalem. Vander Els parallels Antiochus' proclamation of being "God Manifest" with Jesus, who truly embodies God in the flesh (John 10:36).
• Ephesians 4:21-24: A call to put off the old self and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
• 1 John 1:9: Assurance of God's forgiveness for those who confess their sins.
• Isaiah 43:18-19: God's promise to do a new thing, urging His people to forget the former things and not dwell on the past.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17: Declaration that anyone who is in Christ is a new creation—the old has passed away; the new has come.
• Matthew 12:6: Jesus states that something greater than the Temple is here, referring to Himself as the ultimate dwelling place of God's presence.
• John 10:22-39: Jesus at the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah), declaring Himself one with the Father and the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.

 

Conclusion

Vander Els encourages believers to approach their relationship with God with boldness, knowing they have been made new in Christ and that nothing can separate them from His love. He calls them to be ambassadors of God's kingdom, reflecting His light and love to a world in need of hope and restoration.

 

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