Exodus 27:6: Examination of the Brazen Altar

Verse Context: Exodus 27:6 states, "And thou shalt make staves for the altar, staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with brass." This verse continues the instructions for the construction of the altar of burnt offering, which was critical to the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament.

Commentary Overview

This commentary synthesizes insights from public domain commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to provide a comprehensive understanding of the significance of this verse.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The altar serves a central role in the worship and rituals of the Israelites, symbolizing the necessary atonement for sin through sacrifice. The physical dimensions and materials prescribed reflect both a practical and spiritual significance.

Materials Used:

• Staves of Shittim Wood: This wood, known for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizes both strength and purity. The choice of wood reminds us of Christ, who is often referred to as the branch (Jeremiah 23:5).
• Overlay with Brass: Brass, a metal created by alloying copper and zinc, represents judgment and atonement. Commentators note that the altar's material conveys the seriousness of sin and the need for sacrifice.

The Functional Design of the Altar

According to Albert Barnes, the altar's design facilitates the moveability required for the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. The staves allow the altar to be carried as they journeyed, emphasizing that worship and sacrifice must be central to their lives regardless of their location.

The Importance of Staves

Commentary Insight: Matthew Henry emphasizes that the staves signify the connection between God and His people. They not only enable physical transport but also symbolize the ongoing journey towards holiness and communion with God.

This spiritual representation is further reinforced by the idea that worship requires a continual movement toward God, illustrating the ever-present need for atonement and sacrifice in the believer's life.

Spiritual Illustrations

Adam Clarke notes that the altar represents Christ, who is both the altar and the sacrifice. Just as the Israelites brought their offerings to the altar, believers today place their faith in the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. The staves, therefore, also symbolize the ministry of Christ as the mediator who bears burdens and transports our sins to the cross.

Lessons for Modern Believers:

• The Necessity of Sacrifice: Just as the altar was integral to the worship of the Israelites, so is Jesus' sacrifice essential to the Christian faith. The staves remind believers of the constant requirement of acknowledging and confessing their sins.
• The Dynamics of Mobility in Faith: Like the altar, our faith must be active and moving, adapting to the situations in life while remaining anchored in the truth of God's Word.
• Preparation and Intent: The details surrounding the altar’s construction reflect the care and intentionality with which God desires for us to approach Him—worship should never be haphazard but must reflect reverence and dedication.

Conclusion

Exodus 27:6 serves as a reminder of God’s provision for worship and the crucial role of sacrifice in the relationship between God and humanity. As pastors, scholars, and students of the Word delve into this verse, it becomes evident that the deeper themes of obedience, mobility in faith, and the centrality of Christ as the altar and sacrifice are paramount.

Seriously engaging with the materials and insights provided in this commentary not only enriches understanding of the text but also enhances the application of its teachings within the life of the Church today.