8/23/15 God & Smell

Intro: How important is smell?

I love experiencing God's word using multiple senses – smell is not often used

one possible example: Jonah theme VBS – can of sardines with fan for smell

- Compare with other senses...

     “The ear sometimes is deceived in in hearing sounds, which are only imaginary; the eye, too, sees things in motion, which in reality are at rest; the sense of smell alone is not deceived” - Ibn Eza

many devices to help our other senses – not much help for smelling

we care a great deal about how something smells

     example: driving down the road... BBQ vs. skunk

The God Who Smells

- God inhales the pleasing fragrance of sacrifices- mentioned over 40 times in the Hebrew Bible (Pulpit Fiction Podcast)

Genesis 8:21 & Exodus 30:7-8 (daily @ Tabernacle/Temple)

- When God is displeased with scent – Isaiah 1:1-2, 13f

contrast with Messiah – Isaiah 11:1-5 (v.3)

The Biblical Illustrator –

     “'Of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord' a word which relates to the power of smell or scent; He is to have that keen sense which the hound has when the game is not far away, and yet is deeply hidden; He is to know wisdom and right and truth as the thirsty hart smells the water brooks...”

New English Translation – free notes

     “The Hebrew text reads literally, 'and his smelling is in the fear of the Lord.'

The God Who Smells – the smell of Jesus

- often focus on what Jesus looked like

what about His smell?

- Ephesians 5:1-2

What did Jesus smell like from the cross?

     Nard from recent anointing? (Mark 14:1-3)

     Blood? Sweat? Death?

Application: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 

(same smell could be good/bad → perspective?)

Conclusion:

What do you smell?  What smell are you offering up to God?

Sermon concept and outline from Pulpit Fiction Podcast