The concept of guarding what is sacred is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the protection and reverence of what God has deemed holy. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting the responsibility of believers to uphold the sanctity of God's commandments, His name, His dwelling places, and His people.

Sacred Commandments

The Bible underscores the importance of guarding God's commandments as sacred. In Deuteronomy 4:2 , it is written, "You shall not add to the word that I am commanding you, nor take away from it, so that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God that I am giving you." This verse emphasizes the inviolability of God's law, urging believers to preserve its purity and integrity. The sacredness of God's commandments is further reinforced in Psalm 119:11 : "I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You." Here, the psalmist expresses a personal commitment to internalize and protect God's word as a means of living a holy life.

The Name of God

Guarding the sacredness of God's name is another critical aspect. The third commandment, found in Exodus 20:7 , states, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain." This commandment highlights the reverence due to God's name, which represents His character and authority. Believers are called to honor and protect the sanctity of His name in their speech and actions.

Sacred Spaces

Throughout the Old Testament, the tabernacle and the temple are depicted as sacred spaces where God's presence dwells. In Leviticus 19:30 , God commands, "You must keep My Sabbaths and have reverence for My sanctuary. I am the LORD." This directive underscores the holiness of places dedicated to God, requiring the Israelites to approach them with reverence and respect. The New Testament expands this concept, teaching that believers themselves are temples of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 , Paul writes, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body." This passage calls Christians to guard their bodies as sacred, living in a manner that honors God.

The People of God

The sacredness of God's people is a recurring theme in Scripture. In 1 Peter 2:9 , believers are described as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." This identity as a holy nation calls for a communal commitment to uphold the sanctity of the church and its mission. Believers are tasked with protecting the unity and purity of the body of Christ, as seen in Ephesians 4:3 : "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Guarding the Faith

The New Testament also emphasizes the importance of guarding the faith itself. In 2 Timothy 1:14 , Paul exhorts Timothy, "Guard the good deposit entrusted to you, with the help of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us." This charge to protect the core truths of the Christian faith is vital for maintaining doctrinal purity and ensuring the transmission of the gospel to future generations. Jude 1:3 further encourages believers to "contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints," highlighting the active role Christians must play in defending the truth against false teachings.

Conclusion

The biblical mandate to guard what is sacred encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from upholding God's commandments and revering His name to protecting sacred spaces, the people of God, and the faith itself. This call to vigilance and reverence is a testament to the holiness of God and the profound privilege of being entrusted with His sacred things.