Exodus 40:27 – “and burned fragrant incense on it, as the Lord commanded him.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Exodus 40:27 describes the action of Moses burning fragrant incense on the altar of incense, which was placed in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. This act was part of the worship practices that God had instructed Moses to carry out. The burning of incense symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God, a sweet aroma pleasing to the Lord. The phrase “as the Lord commanded him” emphasizes that Moses was obedient in following God’s specific instructions, highlighting the importance of doing things God’s way, especially in matters of worship.
Historical Context
The historical context of Exodus 40:27 takes place as the Israelites are preparing the Tabernacle for the presence of God. The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary that served as the center of worship during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. The altar of incense, where the fragrant incense was burned, was located just outside the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. Burning incense was a regular part of the priestly duties, performed every morning and evening, symbolizing the continuous prayers of the people. This ritual was not merely a ceremonial act but a deeply significant practice that represented the people’s communication with and devotion to God.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 40:27 highlights the importance of prayer and worship as central aspects of the relationship between God and His people. The fragrant incense represents the prayers of the faithful, which are pleasing to God when offered in obedience and sincerity. This verse underscores that worship is not just about external rituals but about the heart behind those actions. True worship, according to this passage, involves obedience to God’s commands and a heart that seeks to please Him. The verse also points to the idea that God desires His people to approach Him in the way He has prescribed, with reverence and respect.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 40:27 is part of the concluding section of the book of Exodus, where the Tabernacle is finally set up, and all its elements are put in place. The verse is concise, focusing on a specific act of worship carried out by Moses. The repetition of the phrase “as the Lord commanded him” throughout this chapter emphasizes the meticulous care and obedience with which Moses followed God’s instructions. This phrase acts as a refrain, reinforcing the theme of obedience that is central to the narrative. The burning of the incense is depicted not just as a ritual, but as an act of worship that aligns with God’s will.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 141:2 – “May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.” This verse connects the burning of incense with prayer, illustrating its significance as a symbol of communication with God.
- Revelation 5:8 – “And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people.” This passage in Revelation links the incense with the prayers of believers, highlighting its ongoing significance in worship.
- Exodus 30:7-8 – “Aaron must burn fragrant incense on the altar every morning when he tends the lamps. He must burn incense again when he lights the lamps at twilight so incense will burn regularly before the Lord for the generations to come.” These verses give the original command for the burning of incense, showing its regular and ongoing role in the worship practices of Israel.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 40:27 serves as a reminder of the importance of prayer and obedience in worship. Just as Moses faithfully burned incense on the altar according to God’s instructions, believers are called to offer their prayers and worship in a way that is pleasing to God. This verse challenges Christians to consider the sincerity and obedience behind their acts of worship. It encourages believers to approach God with a heart that seeks to honor Him, knowing that He values not just the actions we perform, but the intention and obedience behind them.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 40:27 reflects God’s love in that He provides a way for His people to communicate with Him and express their devotion. The act of burning incense symbolizes the prayers of the people, which God receives as a pleasing aroma. This verse shows that God values the prayers and worship of His people, and He desires them to approach Him with sincerity and obedience. God’s love is evident in the way He listens to the prayers of His people and responds to them. The fact that God commands the burning of incense indicates His desire for a close, ongoing relationship with His people, where their prayers are continuously before Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 40:27 connects to Jesus Christ, who is our mediator and the one through whom our prayers are made acceptable to God. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as the one who intercedes for us before the Father (Hebrews 7:25). Just as the incense in the Tabernacle symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God, Jesus’ intercession ensures that our prayers are heard and accepted by God. Through Christ, the barrier of sin is removed, allowing believers to approach God with confidence. The burning of incense in the Old Testament points forward to the perfect intercession of Christ, who continuously presents our prayers before God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the act of burning incense in the Tabernacle challenge you to consider the importance of prayer in your own life?
- In what ways can you ensure that your prayers are offered with sincerity and in alignment with God’s will?
- How does understanding the symbolic nature of incense as representing prayer influence your approach to worship?
- What does it mean for you that Jesus intercedes on your behalf, and how does this impact your confidence in approaching God in prayer?
- How can you apply the principles of this verse to your daily life, ensuring that your acts of worship and prayer are pleasing to God and offered in obedience to His commands?