Exodus 29:36: “Sacrifice a bull each day as a sin offering to make atonement. Purify the altar by making atonement for it, and anoint it to consecrate it.”

Extended Explanation

Exodus 29:36 provides instructions for the daily sacrifices that were to be made during the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests. God commands that a bull be sacrificed each day as a sin offering to make atonement. This process was not just for the priests but also for the altar itself, which needed to be purified and consecrated for holy use. The anointing of the altar signified its dedication to God’s service, setting it apart from ordinary use.

The daily sin offering was a critical part of the ordination process because it acknowledged the reality of sin and the need for purification before the priests could serve in the tabernacle. By offering a bull each day, the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement were emphasized. The anointing and purification of the altar further highlighted that every aspect of worship had to be holy and consecrated to God.

Historical Context

In the context of ancient Israel, the ordination of priests was a highly significant event that required thorough preparation and a deep understanding of holiness. The altar, where sacrifices were made, was central to the worship of Israel. It was the place where offerings were brought to God, symbolizing the people’s devotion, repentance, and desire for reconciliation with God.

The daily sacrifice of a bull as a sin offering during the ordination process served to cleanse the priests and the altar from any impurities. This was necessary because the priests, as representatives of the people before God, had to be pure in order to offer sacrifices on behalf of the nation. The altar itself, though a physical object, was treated with the same level of reverence because it was the focal point of worship and sacrifice.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Exodus 29:36 underscores the importance of atonement and purification in the worship of God. The daily sin offering illustrates the continuous need for atonement, not just as a one-time event but as an ongoing process. This reflects the understanding that sin is a constant reality, and therefore, a continuous need exists for purification and reconciliation with God.

The consecration of the altar through anointing also speaks to the idea that everything associated with worship must be holy. This includes not just the people involved but also the objects used in worship. The act of anointing the altar symbolized its setting apart for God’s purposes, reinforcing the concept that what is holy must be kept separate from the ordinary.

Literary Analysis

Exodus 29:36 is a verse that carries significant weight within the broader narrative of the ordination of the priests. The language used is precise, focusing on the specific actions required: the daily sacrifice, the making of atonement, and the anointing of the altar. Each of these actions contributes to the overall theme of holiness and preparation for service to God.

This verse fits within the larger context of Exodus, where God provides detailed instructions for the consecration of the priests and the establishment of the tabernacle. The repetition of the need for atonement and consecration in these instructions emphasizes the seriousness with which God views worship and the necessity of purity in His service.

Biblical Cross-References

Several other biblical passages relate to the themes found in Exodus 29:36:

• Leviticus 16:18-19: These verses describe the purification of the altar on the Day of Atonement, highlighting the ongoing need for atonement and consecration in worship.
• Numbers 7:10-11: This passage discusses the offerings made at the dedication of the altar, emphasizing the importance of consecration in worship.
• Hebrews 10:11-12: The writer of Hebrews contrasts the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament with the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fully accomplished atonement.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Exodus 29:36 serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for atonement and purification in our lives. Just as the priests needed to offer a daily sacrifice to make atonement, believers are called to continually seek God’s forgiveness and cleansing. This verse challenges us to take sin seriously and to recognize the importance of maintaining a pure heart in our worship and service to God.

The consecration of the altar also encourages Christians to reflect on how they approach worship. Just as the altar was set apart and anointed for holy use, our lives and our actions should be dedicated to God’s purposes, reflecting His holiness in everything we do.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Exodus 29:36 reflects God’s love in His provision for atonement and purification. By commanding the daily sacrifice and the anointing of the altar, God was ensuring that the priests and the place of worship were made holy and acceptable to Him. This verse shows God’s loving care in providing a way for His people to be cleansed from sin and to approach Him in worship.

God’s love is also evident in His desire for His people to live in holiness. The detailed instructions for the ordination process, including the purification of the altar, reflect God’s commitment to helping His people maintain a right relationship with Him. This commitment is rooted in His love for them and His desire for them to be holy as He is holy.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Exodus 29:36 connects to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system. While the priests needed to offer daily sacrifices for atonement, Jesus offered Himself once for all as the perfect sacrifice for sin. His death and resurrection accomplished what the Old Testament sacrifices could not: complete and eternal atonement.

In Hebrews 9:12-14, it is written that Christ “entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.” This passage highlights the superiority of Christ’s sacrifice, which purifies not just the physical altar but the very souls of those who believe in Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the command for a daily sin offering in Exodus 29:36 challenge us to think about the importance of ongoing repentance and purification in our own lives?
2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God are done with a pure heart, reflecting the holiness required of those who serve Him?
3. How does this verse encourage us to take sin seriously and to seek God’s forgiveness continually?
4. What does it mean for us to live lives that are fully consecrated to God, much like the anointing and consecration of the altar in Exodus 29?
5. How can we show gratitude for the way Jesus, our ultimate sacrifice, has fulfilled all the requirements of atonement and made us holy through His once-for-all sacrifice?