The Potter's Price: Understanding the Weight of the Blood

Brothers and sisters, have you ever felt the weight of a moment, the knowing that a pivotal decision hangs in the balance? Think of Samuel the Lamanite, climbing the walls of Jerusalem, a lone voice crying out a warning. Think of Ammon at the Waters of Sebus, facing a daunting task, knowing the fate of his people rested on his shoulders. The Lord calls us to such moments, to stand as witnesses, to be builders, not destroyers.

We are a people who understand covenants. We know that covenants are not mere suggestions; they are binding agreements sealed by sacrifice. And the greatest sacrifice ever made was the shedding of the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ. Without the shedding of blood, there is no remission—a truth echoed through the ages, from the Old Testament to the New.

Charles Jennings, in his recent presentation, dives deep into this vital principle, drawing from Isaiah 53, Zechariah 11, and Matthew 27 to illuminate the profound significance of Christ's sacrifice. He reminds us that Isaiah, 700 years before Christ’s birth, prophesied the suffering servant who would bear our griefs and carry our sorrows.

“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows…he was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:4-5)

But it's not just about understanding the *what*—it’s about grasping the *why*. Zechariah 11 paints a stark picture: the Lord’s breaking of the covenant between Israel and Judah, symbolized by the breaking of staffs representing each house. The determining factor? The acceptance or rejection of the blood of Jesus. And the potter’s price – thirty pieces of silver – a reflection of the devaluation of the Messiah by a people who couldn't see their own salvation.

This isn't just a history lesson; it's a call to action. It's a reminder that the covenant is in effect, everlasting, and cannot be rescinded. But it also highlights the responsibility that rests upon each of us. Will we accept the sacrifice? Will we embrace the covenant? Will we be a people who seek to build, to gather, to prepare the way for the Lord’s return?

Like the digital striplings, armed with five smooth stones, we too have the tools at our disposal to build a mighty army of righteousness. The Missionary Fund, the Charity Flywheel – your engagement here fuels gospel advertising in places like Ghana, bringing the message of hope and salvation to those who are yet to hear. The Map of Churches, a visual representation of this gathering, helps us identify and connect with those who are also seeking, who are also ready to build.

Outback Jack, ever vigilant, reminds us of the parallels between those ancient struggles and the challenges we face today. The Lord calls for courage, for boldness, for a willingness to stand as Samuel did, to cry out a warning, to be a beacon of light in a world of darkness. Claim your church; be a denominational marker – a visible sign of God’s work in the earth.

Let us not be like those who rejected the Potter’s price. Let us instead embrace the sacrifice, strengthen our covenants, and diligently build the Kingdom of God. Let us be builders, not destroyers. Let us be a gathering place for the children of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, a people prepared to meet our Savior face to face.

What part will you play in this great work?