The Maranatha Christian Church Sunday Bible School of December 28, 2025, was held live from the Communications Center of Rádio e TV Maanaim, in Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, with the participation of Pastors Alexandre Gueiros, Gilson Sousa, and Antônio Carlos de Oliveira. The study continued the overall theme “Knowing Jesus More, and Thus Loving Him More,” revealing Christ through the symbols of the Tabernacle.

The Throne of Grace and the Revelation of Christ

Pastor Gilson Sousa emphasized that the study of the Tabernacle reveals everything that was prophesied concerning Christ. All the truths presented throughout the Tabernacle point to grace, which is fully revealed in the person of Jesus.

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

In this lesson, the focus was on the altar of burnt offerings, highlighting that grace is not merely a doctrine but a living reality revealed in the sacrifice of Christ.

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us… full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)
“Mercy and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed.” (Psalm 85:10)

The sacrifice of Jesus cannot be understood as a cold or merely intellectual subject. Each biblical passage calls the believer to reverent meditation, worship, and gratitude for the blessings obtained through the Beloved Savior.

This understanding must be applied to the heart by the Holy Spirit, leading believers to gratitude and more profound love for God. As a response to Christ’s sacrifice, the church is called to present their lives as a continual burnt offering, living in consecration and worship.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren… that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God.” (Romans 12:1)

The Bronze Altar and the Cross of Calvary

Pastor Antônio Carlos explained that the bronze altar, also called the altar of burnt offerings, was the first element encountered after entering the courtyard of the Tabernacle. This altar symbolizes the cross of Calvary, where the Lord Jesus offered Himself for humanity.

By accepting Christ’s call — “Come to Me” — the believer leaves the world behind, enters through the door of salvation (Jesus), and begins to walk in a holy environment prepared by God.

In the Old Testament, forgiveness required the sinner to bring a lamb without blemish, offered voluntarily and with repentance. The laying on of hands symbolized the transfer of guilt to the sacrifice, prefiguring Christ, the Lamb of God.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

The altar was made of acacia wood overlaid with bronze, representing the humanity of Christ and the justice of God. At the altar, the seriousness of sin and the righteousness of divine forgiveness were revealed. Today, believers understand that Christ fully satisfied God’s justice and holiness through His sacrifice.

No one reaches the throne of grace without first passing through the altar. The altar places everyone on equal ground — all are in need of forgiveness, all are dependent on grace.

Holiness, Justice, and the Love That Saves

Pastor Alexandre Gueiros reflected on the holiness of God as the primary motivation for Jesus’ death, while highlighting that God’s grace and mercy are as infinite as His justice.

If God were only holy and righteous, humanity would have no hope. But salvation was made possible because God is love. From eternity, God chose a perfect sacrifice — His own Son — to die in the place of sinners.

“For the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23a)
“…but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23b)

Through Christ’s sacrifice, the separation caused by sin was removed, and fellowship with God was restored. Those who receive such great grace are called to live in a way that reflects that grace, showing love, forgiveness, and kindness toward others.

Pastor Alexandre emphasized that the true purpose of gathering in church is not to seek material benefits, but to worship the Lord and give thanks for His redemptive work. Jesus perfectly fulfilled the law, fully pleased the Father, and offered Himself as the unique and sufficient sacrifice.

On the cross, all offerings were fulfilled in Christ: the sin offering, guilt offering, peace offering, thanksgiving offering, and burnt offering. Through this single sacrifice, believers enjoy peace with God and the riches of His grace.

“Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.” (Jeremiah 31:3)

God’s love was fully revealed when the Word became flesh. Jesus is the visible expression of the love, grace, mercy, and truth of God. Having received such love, believers are called not to return to sin, but to live on God’s altar, under the refining fire of the Holy Spirit.

To Continue the Study

If you would like to go further in this study, click here to access the full Bible School Bulletin.
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