About 3,000
By Kurt Bomar
Avery County
The phrase “about 3000” is mentioned twice in scripture. Not “just 3000” or “over 3,000” or “exactly 3000”, But “about 3000”.
The first time we see it is in Exodus 32:20. “You shall count all fifty days to the day after the 7th Sabbath. Then you shall offer a new grain offering to the Lord.” This is the ordinance of the Feast of Shavuot, which takes place seven weeks or 50 days after the Passover. The rabbis calculated it out and discovered that this was the same time that Moses ascended Mount Sinai to receive the Law. Thus, Shavuot became the day that commemorated the giving of the law. It became a feast day on the Hebrew calendar.
What happened on that day? When Moses descended from Mount Sinai, he saw that the Hebrews were indulging in immorality. And God in his wrath destroyed “about 3000” people. Ex.32:20.
Now let’s jump forward 1000 years. The Hebrew word “Shavuot” had been translated into the Greek word “Pentecost”. So, on that same holiday, the spirit of God was given to the believers. Guess what happened? Salvation happened, eternal life. And the number of those who came to new life. Was recorded at “about 3000”. Acts 2:41.
So “about 3000” died and centuries later “about 3000” came to life on the same exact holy day. On the first event, the law was given. In the second event, the Spirit of God was given. Perhaps this is why Paul said “the letter (law)kills, but the spirit gives life.” 2Cor.3:4-6.
You see, the law can tell us the will of God, but only the Spirit can give us the power to live it. Therefore, we should not live by the spirit of the law (focusing on rules and regulations for our righteousness). Rather we should live by the Spirit of God, fulfilling the will of God for our lives.
I admit it is a radical concept. But it is also very freeing. Instead of struggling to accomplish the will of God, live, move, and be moved by the Spirit of God and you will fulfill His will.
Selah (think about it).
Pastor Kurt Bomar, Walnut Grove Church
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Kurt Bomar is the pastor of Walnut Grove Church located in Avery County. You are welcome to join them on Sundays at 11:00 AM for worship! (When we are allowed to meet in the building again). You can read more Christian news from Kurt Bomar HERE.
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