Exodus 20:26 – “And do not go up to my altar on steps, or your private parts may be exposed.”

Extended Explanation

Exodus 20:26 is a specific instruction from God regarding the construction and use of altars. The command is straightforward: the priests or those offering sacrifices should not go up to the altar on steps, lest their private parts be exposed. This instruction might seem unusual at first glance, but it emphasizes the importance of modesty and respect in worship. In ancient times, garments were often loose, and ascending steps could lead to accidental exposure, which would be inappropriate in a sacred context. The command reflects God’s concern for maintaining the dignity and purity of the worship setting, ensuring that the focus remains on Him and the reverence due to Him.

Historical Context

In the historical context of the Israelites, altars were central to their worship, serving as the place where sacrifices were offered to God. The design and use of altars were guided by specific instructions to ensure that worship was conducted in a manner that honored God. The cultural norms of the time also played a role in this command. In a society where modesty was highly valued, any potential for exposure would have been seen as disrespectful, particularly in a sacred space. By instructing the Israelites to avoid steps on the altar, God was protecting the sanctity of worship and the modesty of those serving at the altar.

Theological Implications

Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of purity, modesty, and reverence in worship. God is concerned not just with the acts of worship but also with the attitudes and behaviors of those who come before Him. This command reflects the broader biblical principle that worship should be conducted in a way that honors God’s holiness and respects the sanctity of the worship space. The instruction against exposing oneself during worship also points to the idea that God cares about every detail of how we approach Him, emphasizing the need for humility and modesty in His presence.

Literary Analysis

Literarily, Exodus 20:26 is part of a series of specific instructions regarding the construction and use of altars. The verse is direct and practical, addressing a potential issue that could arise during worship. The use of the phrase “your private parts may be exposed” is blunt, but it serves to clearly communicate the importance of maintaining modesty in worship. The instruction is connected to the broader theme of holiness that runs throughout the book of Exodus, where God provides detailed guidance on how His people should live and worship in a way that reflects His holiness.

Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 28:42 – “Make linen undergarments as a covering for the body, reaching from the waist to the thigh.” This verse provides additional instructions for the priests’ garments, further emphasizing the importance of modesty in worship.
• Leviticus 18:6-7 – These verses address the importance of maintaining sexual purity and modesty, reflecting the broader biblical concern for holiness in all aspects of life.
• 1 Timothy 2:9 – “I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes.” This New Testament verse continues the biblical emphasis on modesty, particularly in the context of worship.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Exodus 20:26 serves as a reminder of the importance of modesty and reverence in worship. While the specific cultural context may have changed, the principle remains the same: how we present ourselves in worship matters. This verse challenges us to consider not just our external appearance but also the attitudes we bring to worship. It reminds us that worship is a time to focus on God, and our behavior, dress, and demeanor should reflect the respect and reverence due to Him. In a broader sense, it also encourages us to maintain purity and modesty in all areas of life, recognizing that how we conduct ourselves reflects our relationship with God.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in His concern for the dignity and well-being of His people. By giving specific instructions that protect modesty, God is ensuring that worship is a place of respect and honor, where everyone can focus on Him without distraction. God’s love is also evident in His attention to detail, providing guidance on even seemingly minor aspects of worship to help His people approach Him in the right way. This command shows that God cares about how we come before Him, not just in the grand gestures of worship but in the small, everyday details as well.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ taught about the importance of purity and the heart’s intent in worship. In Matthew 5:8, Jesus says, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” This teaching aligns with the principle in Exodus 20:26, where the focus is on maintaining purity and modesty in God’s presence. Jesus also emphasized that true worship is about the spirit and the heart, not just external rituals or appearances. Through His life and teachings, Jesus calls us to approach God with reverence and humility, ensuring that our worship is genuine and focused on Him. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross also underscores the need for purity and holiness in our relationship with God, as He made the ultimate atonement for our sins so that we can come before God with a pure heart.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge your approach to worship, particularly in terms of modesty and reverence?
2. In what ways can you ensure that your behavior and appearance in worship reflect the respect and honor due to God?
3. How does understanding the importance of purity and modesty in worship affect your daily life and interactions with others?
4. How can you cultivate a heart of reverence and humility, following Jesus’ example in how you approach God in worship and in life?

This article encourages believers to reflect on the importance of modesty, purity, and reverence in worship, understanding that how we approach God matters and that our worship should be conducted in a way that honors His holiness and reflects our love for Him.