The Epistle of Barnabas
Chapter 2: The Jewish Sacrifices are Now Abolished
Since the days are evil and Satan holds power in this world, we must pay attention to ourselves and carefully seek understanding of the ordinances of the Lord. Fear and patience support our faith, and endurance and self-control are our allies. When these remain pure concerning the Lord, Wisdom, Understanding, Science, and Knowledge find joy with them. For He has revealed through all the prophets that He does not need sacrifices, burnt offerings, or oblations, saying, “What is the multitude of your sacrifices to Me, says the Lord? I am full of burnt offerings and do not desire the fat of lambs, the blood of bulls, or goats even when you come before Me.
Who has required these things from you? Do not tread My courts anymore, even if you bring fine flour with you. Incense is a pointless abomination to Me, and I cannot endure your new moons and sabbaths.” He has therefore abolished these things so that the new law of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is without the burden of necessity, might have a human offering. And again He says to them, “Did I command your fathers to offer Me burnt offerings and sacrifices when they left Egypt? Rather, I commanded this: Let none of you harbor evil in his heart against his neighbor, and love not a false oath.” Therefore, we, possessing understanding, should perceive the gracious intention of our Father.
He speaks to us, wishing that we, not going astray like them, should ask how we may approach Him. To us, He declares, “A sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit; a sweet-smelling offering to the Lord is a heart that glorifies Him that made it.” Therefore, brethren, we should carefully inquire about our salvation, lest the wicked one, having entered through deceit, should cast us away from our true life.