Exodus 40:6

Place the altar of burnt offering in front of the entrance to the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting.

Study Bible

Place the altar of burnt offering
The altar of burnt offering, also known as the brazen altar, was central to the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, symbolizing judgment and sacrifice. This altar was where offerings were made to atone for sin, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the sacrificial system through His death on the cross (Hebrews 10:10). The altar's placement signifies the necessity of atonement before entering into God's presence.

in front of the entrance
Positioning the altar in front of the entrance underscores the idea that one must first deal with sin before approaching God. This reflects the broader biblical principle that reconciliation with God requires a mediator and a sacrifice, as seen in the role of Jesus as the mediator of the new covenant (1 Timothy 2:5). The altar's location also served as a constant reminder to the Israelites of the need for purification and repentance.

to the tabernacle,
The tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was the portable dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It was a sacred space where God met with His people, symbolizing His presence and guidance. The tabernacle's design and function foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), providing a way for humanity to dwell with God.

the Tent of Meeting.
The Tent of Meeting was a term used interchangeably with the tabernacle, emphasizing its role as a place of divine encounter. It was here that Moses spoke with God "face to face" (Exodus 33:11), highlighting the intimate relationship between God and His chosen leader. This concept of meeting with God is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus, who provides believers with direct access to the Father (Hebrews 4:16). The Tent of Meeting served as a precursor to the church, the body of Christ, where believers gather to worship and commune with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to receive the Law. Moses is responsible for setting up the tabernacle according to God's instructions.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place for God among the Israelites, also known as the Tent of Meeting. It was a central place of worship and sacrifice during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness.

3. The Altar of Burnt Offering
A key component of the tabernacle, where sacrifices were made to atone for the sins of the people and to maintain a right relationship with God.

4. The Entrance to the Tabernacle
The designated place where the altar was to be positioned, signifying the importance of sacrifice in approaching God.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land under Moses' leadership.

Teaching Points

The Centrality of Sacrifice
The placement of the altar at the entrance of the tabernacle underscores the necessity of sacrifice in approaching God. In the New Testament, Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice, and through Him, we have access to God.

Obedience to God's Instructions
Moses' careful adherence to God's commands in setting up the tabernacle serves as a model for our obedience to God's Word in our lives.

The Role of Worship in Community
The tabernacle was a communal place of worship, reminding us of the importance of gathering together as believers to worship and seek God.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle and its elements symbolize deeper spiritual truths, such as the holiness of God, the need for atonement, and the presence of God among His people.

Approaching God with Reverence
The sacrificial system highlights the seriousness of sin and the reverence required in approaching a holy God, encouraging us to examine our hearts and live in holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the altar of burnt offering at the entrance of the tabernacle reflect the importance of sacrifice in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways does the tabernacle foreshadow the work of Christ as described in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience demonstrated by Moses in setting up the tabernacle to our daily lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer ourselves as living sacrifices, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. How does understanding the symbolism of the tabernacle enhance our appreciation of God's presence and holiness in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1
This chapter provides detailed instructions on how burnt offerings were to be conducted, emphasizing the importance of sacrifice in worship and atonement.

Hebrews 9
This passage discusses the tabernacle and its elements as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, highlighting the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system and emphasizing a life of worship and dedication to God.