What role does the altar play in Israel's worship according to Exodus 40:6? “Place the altar of burnt offering in front of the entrance to the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting.” Why Its Placement Matters - Located “in front of the entrance,” the altar is the first object worshipers encounter; approach to God begins with sacrifice. - God Himself specifies the location, underscoring its non-negotiable role (cf. Exodus 27:1–8 for construction details). - By standing at the threshold, the altar functions as a visible reminder that sin must be addressed before fellowship can occur (cf. Leviticus 17:11; Hebrews 9:22). Core Functions in Israel’s Worship - Atonement: Burnt offerings rise “as a pleasing aroma to the LORD” (Leviticus 1:9), covering guilt and inviting divine favor. - Consecration: Daily morning and evening lambs (Exodus 29:38-42) keep the nation continually set apart. - Intercession Point: Priests lay hands on sacrifices, symbolically transferring sin and seeking mercy (Leviticus 16:21). - Covenant Renewal: Regular sacrifice reaffirms Israel’s binding relationship with Yahweh (Exodus 24:5-8). Daily Rhythm Around the Altar • Morning sacrifice opens the day (Numbers 28:3-4). • Evening sacrifice closes it (Numbers 28:8). • Additional offerings on Sabbaths, new moons, and festivals center life around consistent worship (Numbers 28–29). Foreshadowing Fulfillment in Christ - Just as the altar stood between Israel and the Holy Place, Christ stands between sinners and the Father (John 14:6). - Hebrews 10:10: “We have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” - The altar’s continual fire (Leviticus 6:12-13) prefigures the perpetual efficacy of the cross. Key Takeaways • The altar is the ordained gateway to God’s presence—no one bypasses the blood. • It anchors every act of corporate and individual worship in substitutionary sacrifice. • Its prominence in Exodus 40:6 teaches that reconciliation precedes revelation: cleansing first, communion second. |
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