Exodus 35:16

the altar of burnt offering with its bronze grate, its poles, and all its utensils; the basin with its stand;

Study Bible

the altar of burnt offering
The altar of burnt offering was central to the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. It was located in the courtyard of the Tabernacle and was the place where sacrifices were made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. This altar symbolizes the need for atonement and points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

with its bronze grate
The bronze grate was a network or mesh placed on the altar to hold the sacrifices. Bronze, a durable metal, symbolizes judgment and endurance. The use of bronze in the altar's construction signifies the enduring nature of God's judgment against sin, which is ultimately satisfied in Christ's sacrificial death.

its poles
The poles were used to carry the altar, emphasizing the mobility of the Tabernacle as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness. This mobility reflects the transient nature of life and the need for God's presence to accompany His people wherever they go. It also foreshadows the New Testament teaching that believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, carrying God's presence within them (1 Corinthians 6:19).

and all its utensils
The utensils used with the altar included items like firepans, shovels, basins, forks, and firepans, each serving a specific purpose in the sacrificial process. These tools highlight the detailed and orderly nature of worship prescribed by God, pointing to the importance of reverence and precision in approaching Him.

the basin with its stand
The basin, also known as the laver, was used by the priests for ceremonial washing before performing their duties. This act of washing symbolizes purification and the need for holiness when approaching God. In the New Testament, this concept is echoed in the call for believers to be cleansed by the washing of water with the word (Ephesians 5:26), signifying spiritual purification through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle from God.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were tasked with building the Tabernacle according to the divine instructions given to Moses.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among His people during their journey through the wilderness.

4. Altar of Burnt Offering
A key component of the Tabernacle where sacrifices were made to atone for the sins of the people.

5. Basin with its Stand
Used for ceremonial washing by the priests, symbolizing purification and preparation for service.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites were called to follow God's instructions precisely, reminding us of the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The altar of burnt offering points to the necessity of atonement and foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

Purification and Service
The basin symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing before serving God, emphasizing the importance of holiness in our lives.

Community Involvement
The construction of the Tabernacle was a communal effort, illustrating the value of working together in the body of Christ.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was a tangible sign of God's presence among His people, reminding us that God desires to dwell with us today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the altar of burnt offering in Exodus 35:16 reflect the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?

2. In what ways does the basin for washing relate to the concept of spiritual cleansing in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the Israelites' construction of the Tabernacle to our daily lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can work together as a community of believers to build up the body of Christ?

5. How does the presence of God in the Tabernacle encourage us to seek His presence in our personal and communal worship today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1
Provides detailed instructions on the burnt offerings, highlighting the significance of the altar in the sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the role of the Tabernacle and its elements as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

1 Kings 7
Describes the construction of the Temple, which included similar elements to the Tabernacle, showing continuity in worship practices.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system of the Old Testament.

John 13:10
Jesus speaks of the need for spiritual cleansing, akin to the ceremonial washing at the basin.