Exodus 29:12 KJV

And thou shalt take of the blood of the bullock, and put it upon the horns of the altar with thy finger, and pour all the blood beside the bottom of the altar.

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Exodus 29:12 Bible Commentary

Exodus 29:12 Commentary

Bible Verse: "And thou shalt take of the blood of the bullock, and put it upon the horns of the altar with thy finger, and pour all the blood at the bottom of the altar."

Contextual Overview

This verse is part of the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons as the priests of Israel. The rituals outlined in Exodus 29 serve as a foundational aspect of the Levitical priesthood and demonstrate the seriousness of approaching God through prescribed means.

The Significance of Blood

Influence of Blood in Sacrificial Systems: Throughout Scripture, blood signifies life and atonement, symbolizing the seriousness of sin and the cost required for redemption. Matthew Henry highlights the notion that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sins, linking this act to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the Cross.

Symbolism of Purification: Albert Barnes elaborates on the act of smearing blood on the altar's horns. This signifies sanctification and the setting apart of the altar for holy purposes. It also reflects the spiritual truth that the approach to God must be through blood, emphasizing the need for atonement.

The Altar's Horns

The horns of the altar symbolize strength and refuge. Adam Clarke explains that by applying the blood to the horns, the priest is acknowledging that God is the protector and the source of strength for His people. The reference to horns demonstrates both the majesty and authority of God, and by covering them with blood, the priest is establishing a covenant of protection and acknowledgment of God's holiness.

Ritual and Order in Worship

The detailed instructions in this verse highlight God's desire for order and method in worship. Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of adhering to divine instructions when approaching the holy. This reflects a principle that runs throughout Scripture: genuine worship must follow God's requirements.

  • The Seriousness of Worship: The gravity of the rituals underscores that worship is not a casual activity but a profound encounter with God.
  • Holiness of the Priesthood: The actions of the priests, specifically the application of blood, point to their role as mediators between the people and God.
  • Sign of Atonement: The blood represents both a covering for sin and a means of establishing peace with God.

Implications for New Covenant Believers

While the sacrificial system established in Exodus is not practiced today, its principles remain profoundly relevant. Albert Barnes discusses how this ritual points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. The application of Christ’s blood to our lives is key to our salvation and acceptance before God.

  • Christ’s Sacrifice: Just as the blood of the bullock sanctified the altar, so Christ's blood sanctifies the believer.
  • Access to God: As believers, we now have direct access to God through the mediation of Christ.
  • Living Sacrifices: In light of Christ’s sacrifice, we are called to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1).

Conclusion

Exodus 29:12 serves as a profound reminder of the gravity of sin, the necessity of atonement, and the mercy of God. As pastors, students, and theologians reflect on this verse, they are challenged not only to understand the historical context and significance but also to apply its truths within the scope of New Testament revelation.

As we approach the altar of God today, may we do so with the understanding that our access is rooted in the precious blood of Christ and the ultimate sacrifice that has been made on our behalf.