Exodus 40:6 – “Place the altar of burnt offering in front of the entrance to the tabernacle, the tent of meeting.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Exodus 40:6 is a directive from God to Moses as he prepares to set up the Tabernacle. In this verse, Moses is instructed to place the altar of burnt offering directly in front of the entrance to the Tabernacle, also known as the tent of meeting. The altar of burnt offering was a central part of the Israelite worship system, where sacrifices were made to atone for sins and to express devotion to God. Placing the altar at the entrance to the Tabernacle emphasized the necessity of sacrifice as the first step in approaching God. This verse highlights the importance of the altar in the worship life of Israel and underscores the centrality of sacrifice in their relationship with God.

Historical Context

The historical context of Exodus 40:6 is critical for understanding its significance. After the Israelites were delivered from Egypt, they received the Law from God at Mount Sinai, which included detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The altar of burnt offering was one of the first items to be placed in the Tabernacle courtyard, signifying that sacrifice was foundational to the worship and relationship with God. The altar was used for offering sacrifices that symbolized atonement for sin, thanksgiving, and dedication to God. Its placement at the entrance to the Tabernacle served as a constant reminder that reconciliation with God requires a sacrificial offering.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Exodus 40:6 speaks to the necessity of atonement in the relationship between God and humanity. The placement of the altar at the entrance of the Tabernacle indicates that one cannot approach God without first dealing with sin. The sacrifices offered on this altar were a way for the Israelites to atone for their sins, seek forgiveness, and restore their relationship with God. This verse points to the idea that worship involves not just praise and thanksgiving but also repentance and acknowledgment of our need for forgiveness. It underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin, which must be addressed before entering into His presence.

Literary Analysis

Literarily, Exodus 40:6 is part of the detailed narrative describing the setup of the Tabernacle. The verse is precise in its instructions, reflecting the ordered and structured nature of Israelite worship. The command to place the altar of burnt offering “in front of the entrance to the tabernacle” is significant, as it positions the altar as the first thing anyone would encounter when approaching the Tabernacle. This placement reinforces the idea that sacrifice and atonement are prerequisites for entering into God’s presence. The verse serves as a transition from the preparation of the Tabernacle’s interior to the arrangement of the outer courtyard, emphasizing the holistic approach to worship that includes both inner and outer aspects.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Leviticus 1:3-9 – These verses describe the procedure for offering a burnt sacrifice on the altar, highlighting its importance in the atonement process.
• Hebrews 9:22 – “Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.” This verse in the New Testament echoes the principle established by the altar of burnt offering.
• John 1:29 – John the Baptist refers to Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world,” connecting the sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Exodus 40:6 serves as a reminder of the significance of sacrifice in our relationship with God. While we no longer offer animal sacrifices, the principle of approaching God through sacrifice remains relevant. Jesus Christ is the ultimate sacrifice, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. This verse encourages believers to reflect on the cost of atonement and the necessity of repentance in our worship. It also reminds us that our relationship with God is founded on the sacrifice of Christ, and that we must continually acknowledge our need for His grace and forgiveness.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Exodus 40:6 reflects God’s love in providing a way for His people to be reconciled to Him through sacrifice. The altar of burnt offering was not just a place of death but a place of grace, where sins were forgiven, and relationships were restored. God’s instructions for setting up the altar show His desire to be in fellowship with His people, despite their sinfulness. This verse demonstrates that God’s love is both just and merciful—He requires atonement for sin, but He also provides the means for that atonement, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Exodus 40:6 connects directly to Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of the sacrificial system represented by the altar of burnt offering. In the Old Testament, the altar was the place where sacrifices were made to atone for sin. In the New Testament, Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice, offering Himself on the cross to atone for the sins of the world. Hebrews 10:10 says, “We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Just as the altar was placed at the entrance to the Tabernacle, symbolizing the need for atonement before approaching God, Jesus’ sacrifice opens the way for us to enter into God’s presence.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the placement of the altar of burnt offering at the entrance to the Tabernacle challenge you to consider the importance of repentance and atonement in your own life?
2. What does the concept of sacrifice teach you about the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God?
3. How can you apply the principle of atonement in your daily walk with God, recognizing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?
4. In what ways does understanding Jesus as the fulfillment of the sacrificial system deepen your appreciation for His work on the cross?
5. How does this verse encourage you to approach God with a heart of repentance and gratitude for the forgiveness provided through Christ?