Exodus 38:4

He made a grate of bronze mesh for the altar under its ledge, halfway up from the bottom.

Study Bible

He made a grate of bronze mesh
The use of bronze in the construction of the altar's grate is significant. Bronze, a durable and strong metal, symbolizes judgment and endurance in biblical typology. The bronze mesh allowed for the ashes to fall through, facilitating the burning process. This construction detail reflects the practical needs of the sacrificial system, ensuring that the altar could function efficiently during the numerous offerings. The use of bronze also connects to other biblical instances where bronze is used in contexts of judgment, such as the bronze serpent in Numbers 21:9.

for the altar
The altar referred to here is the altar of burnt offering, central to the sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law. It was located in the courtyard of the Tabernacle, where sacrifices were made to atone for the sins of the people. The altar's construction and use are detailed in Exodus 27:1-8, emphasizing its importance in Israelite worship. The altar serves as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate sacrifice for sin, fulfilling the sacrificial system's requirements once and for all (Hebrews 10:10).

under its ledge
The ledge of the altar provided a practical function, likely serving as a platform for the priests to stand on while performing sacrifices. This detail highlights the careful design of the altar, ensuring that it met the needs of the priests and the sacrificial rituals. The ledge's presence also indicates the altar's substantial size and the importance of its role in the Tabernacle's worship practices.

halfway up from the bottom
This specific measurement indicates the grate's position within the altar, ensuring optimal airflow and combustion for the sacrifices. The precise instructions for the altar's construction reflect the broader biblical theme of God's attention to detail and order, as seen throughout the instructions for the Tabernacle. This attention to detail underscores the holiness and sanctity of the worship practices, pointing to the need for reverence and obedience in approaching God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The chief artisan appointed by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the bronze altar and its grate.

2. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Bronze Altar
A key component of the Tabernacle used for burnt offerings, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God.

4. Grate of Bronze
A network or mesh placed within the altar to support the offerings, allowing ashes to fall through and air to circulate.

5. Israelites
The people of God, who were commanded to construct the Tabernacle according to the divine specifications given to Moses.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Bronze Altar
The altar represents the need for atonement and the seriousness of sin. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who atones for our sins once and for all.

Craftsmanship and Obedience
Bezalel's work on the altar demonstrates the importance of using our God-given talents in obedience to His commands. We are called to serve God with excellence and faithfulness.

The Role of Sacrifice
The grate's function in the altar reminds us of the necessity of sacrifice in our spiritual lives. We are to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

God's Detailed Instructions
The specific design of the altar and its components shows that God cares about the details of our worship and service. We should seek to honor Him in every aspect of our lives.

Community and Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings was a communal effort, reflecting the importance of unity and cooperation in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the bronze altar and its grate reflect the character of God in terms of order and holiness?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of being a "living sacrifice" in our daily lives, as seen in the New Testament?

3. How does the role of Bezalel in constructing the Tabernacle inspire us to use our talents for God's glory?

4. What are some modern-day "sacrifices" we can make to demonstrate our commitment to God and His purposes?

5. How can the communal effort in building the Tabernacle encourage us to work together in our local church or community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:1-8
Provides the initial instructions for building the bronze altar, highlighting its significance in the sacrificial system.

Leviticus 1:9
Describes the burnt offering process, emphasizing the role of the altar and its grate in facilitating the sacrifice.

Hebrews 9:22
Connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who fulfills the need for atonement.

1 Peter 2:5
Relates the concept of spiritual sacrifices to the believer's life, drawing a parallel to the offerings made on the altar.