Exodus 40:6

And thou shalt set the altar of the burnt offering before the door of the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.

Exodus 40:6 (KJV)

Context

Exodus is the second book of the Bible and part of the Torah, the first five books. It tells how God delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt and made a covenant with them at Mount Sinai. In Exodus 40, the tabernacle is completed and consecrated. God gives Moses precise instructions for setting up this portable sanctuary, which would be the dwelling place of His presence among His people during their wilderness journey.

Meaning

This verse focuses on the altar of burnt offering. It was a bronze altar placed in the open court, just before the entrance to the holy place. The priests offered sacrifices on it, and the entire animal was consumed by fire. Its position at the door meant that anyone approaching the tabernacle had to pass by it. This taught that access to God’s presence required dealing with sin through sacrifice.

The altar was to be anointed and consecrated, making it most holy. The burnt offering symbolized complete surrender and dedication to God. The tabernacle’s structure, with its outer court, holy place, and most holy place, showed progressive levels of intimacy with God. The altar of burnt offering was the necessary first step. Its place at the entrance also meant that the smell and smoke of the sacrifices stayed outside the holy place, keeping the inner sanctuary pure.

Biblical connections

Later, in Exodus 40:29, Moses carried out this command, offering burnt offerings and meal offerings on the altar. The golden altar of incense was placed before the ark in the holy place, while the basin for washing was set between the tent of meeting and the altar. This arrangement shows that cleansing and atonement came before entering God’s presence. The sacrifices pointed forward to Jesus Christ, whose once-for-all sacrifice takes away sin. The principle of approaching God only through atonement is fulfilled in Him.

Application

This verse reminds us that we cannot come to God on our own terms. Just as the Israelites had to pass by the altar, we must acknowledge our sin and the need for cleansing. Through Christ, we have access to God, but that access is only possible because of His sacrifice.

We are also called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, wholly dedicated to God. The burnt offering’s complete consumption pictures total surrender. Our worship should reflect that same wholehearted devotion. The altar’s position at the door teaches that surrender is not an optional extra; it is the starting point of every approach to God.

Reflection

Consider how you approach God. Do you recognize the seriousness of sin and the cost of atonement? Let this verse encourage you to draw near to God with reverence and gratitude, trusting in Christ’s finished work. Live in alignment with His Word, offering your life as a pleasing sacrifice.