One of the reasons I like science and mathematics is because of precision. They are exact. It is black and white. It is consistent. Precision.
2 atoms of hydrogen and 1 atom of oxygen is always water. Always. If you add just one atom of oxygen it is no longer water, it becomes hydrogen peroxide. Precision.
In mathematics, the long side of a right triangle always has the same relationship to the other 2 sides. That relationship is expressed as the sum of the squares of the 2 short sides always equals the square of the long side. Always. Precision.
The circumference of a circle divided by the diameter is always the same value. No matter how big or small the circle. Always. Precision.
GOD is a GOD of precision.
In Genesis 6, GOD told Noah that he was to make the ark according to a pattern. Surely you believe that the dimensions and kind of wood had to be followed down to the smallest detail. The pattern was precise. Precision.
In Acts 7:44 and Hebrews 8:5 we read that GOD told Moses that he was to make the tabernacle according to the pattern. Precision.
The phrase “according to the pattern” is one of the most significant statements in the entire Bible. No one doubts that Noah and Moses had to follow GOD’S instruction exactly.
The word pattern in the text comes from the Greek word, typos. It literally means the exact image or impression. Exact. Precision.
Typos is found in several passages such as Romans 6:17, where we read, “you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine.” Form, typos, exact replica, precision.
If Noah followed an exact pattern with the ark and Moses followed an exact pattern with the tabernacle, why would we not be required to follow a precise, exact pattern in order to escape from sin? Indeed, that is what the recipients of the Roman letter had done. They had obeyed that form or pattern of doctrine.
Why is it so difficult for us to grasp this idea?
Why do we rebel against the idea that there is a pattern for us to follow in order to become a child of GOD?
Why can’t it be just because I feel like it is right?
Is there a pattern and is it necessary for me to follow it?
Why do we have a problem with the idea that there is a pattern for New Testament worship? Why can’t I choose my worship based on the way it feels?
Why do we have a problem with the idea of there being a pattern for which we are to live our lives? Why can’t I live my life according to the premise, “If it feels good do it”?
There is precision in science and in mathematics. There is precision in religion as well. The Scriptures give us these patterns. We just need the courage and humility necessary to seek the truth. That truth is found in the pages of Scripture.
One of the great delusions of modern worshipers is the fallacy that there is no pattern. This mindset says it makes no difference what people do religiously, just as long as they are sincere about it. However, the Bible says otherwise. Scripture reveals GOD to be a pattern-minded GOD of precision. How could GOD be otherwise?