Exodus 27 to 33 in the King James Bible (KJV) continues the detailed instructions for Israel’s worship practices, focusing on the construction of the altar, priestly garments, and the consecration of Aaron and his sons. These chapters also cover the tragic incident of the golden calf, where Israel falls into idolatry shortly after receiving the covenant. Despite this failure, the chapters ultimately emphasize God’s mercy, His provision for redemption, and His desire to dwell among His people.
Exodus 27: The Altar of Burnt Offering and the Courtyard
Exodus 27 opens with God’s instructions to Moses regarding the Altar of Burnt Offering, which is to be placed in the Tabernacle’s outer courtyard. Made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, the altar measures five cubits by five cubits (about seven and a half feet square) and stands three cubits high. It is to have horns on its four corners, and a bronze grating is to be placed under the altar for burning sacrifices.
God also provides details about the construction of the Courtyard of the Tabernacle, which is to be enclosed by linen curtains and bronze pillars. The courtyard will serve as the place where Israel brings offerings and sacrifices to God. This chapter emphasizes the importance of sacrifice and the proper approach to worship in the presence of a holy God.
Finally, the chapter mentions the oil for the lampstand (or Menorah), instructing the Israelites to bring pure olive oil to keep the lamp burning continually. The eternal flame represents the light of God’s presence that is never extinguished.
Exodus 28: The Garments of the Priests
Exodus 28 outlines the specific garments that are to be made for Aaron and his sons, who will serve as priests. These garments are not only functional but highly symbolic, representing the holiness and authority of the priesthood. The ephod, a richly embroidered garment, is to be worn by Aaron. It includes two onyx stones on the shoulders, engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing that the high priest carries the people of Israel before God.
The breastplate of judgment is another important part of the high priest’s attire. This breastplate contains twelve precious stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel. The breastplate also contains the mysterious Urim and Thummim, objects used for discerning God’s will in important matters.
Aaron is also to wear a robe with bells and pomegranates sewn along the hem, as well as a turban with a gold plate inscribed with the words “HOLINESS TO THE LORD.” This signifies that the priest’s service is consecrated to God and reminds the Israelites of God’s holiness.
Exodus 29: The Consecration of the Priests
Exodus 29 describes the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons. This ceremony is essential to sanctify them for their roles as priests. The process involves washing, dressing in the holy garments, and anointing with oil, symbolizing purification and the Holy Spirit’s empowerment.
The consecration includes the offering of several sacrifices, such as a bull for a sin offering, two rams, and unleavened bread. Aaron and his sons must place their hands on the head of the sacrificial animals, signifying the transfer of their sins. The blood of the animals is sprinkled on the altar and even on the priests themselves, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.
For seven days, the priests are to remain at the entrance of the Tabernacle as the sacrifices are offered. This underscores the need for thorough purification before entering into the service of God. The chapter concludes with God’s promise to meet with the priests and the people at the Tabernacle, where His glory will dwell among them.
Exodus 30: The Altar of Incense and Other Instructions
In Exodus 30, God gives further instructions for the Altar of Incense, which is to be made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. This altar will stand in the Holy Place, directly in front of the veil that separates the Holy of Holies from the rest of the Tabernacle. The priests are to burn incense on this altar every morning and evening, symbolizing the prayers of the people rising to God.
The chapter also introduces the Ransom Money—a census tax that each Israelite must pay as an atonement offering. This money is used to support the maintenance of the Tabernacle and ensures that the people are spiritually prepared to be counted among God’s nation.
Additionally, God provides instructions for the Bronze Laver, a basin for the priests to wash their hands and feet before approaching the altar, and for the Anointing Oil and Incense, both of which are to be made according to a specific recipe and used only for sacred purposes.
Exodus 31: The Appointment of Skilled Craftsmen and the Sabbath
In Exodus 31, God appoints Bezaleel and Aholiab as the chief craftsmen responsible for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings. These men are filled with the Spirit of God, which grants them wisdom, understanding, and skill in craftsmanship. This highlights the importance of using God-given talents in His service and for His glory.
God also reemphasizes the importance of the Sabbath in this chapter. The Sabbath is to be a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, reminding them that they are a holy people set apart for His purposes. The penalty for violating the Sabbath is death, underscoring the seriousness of this command.
At the end of this chapter, Moses receives the two tablets of stone, written with the finger of God, containing the Ten Commandments.
Exodus 32: The Golden Calf and Israel’s Sin
Exodus 32 records one of the darkest moments in Israel’s journey. While Moses is on Mount Sinai receiving the law, the people grow impatient and demand that Aaron make them a visible god to worship. Aaron gives in to their demands and fashions a golden calf from their gold earrings. The people begin to worship the calf, declaring, “These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt” (Exodus 32:4 KJV).
God sees what the Israelites are doing and informs Moses of their sin, threatening to destroy them and make a new nation from Moses. Moses intercedes on behalf of the people, appealing to God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God relents from His plan to destroy Israel, but when Moses descends the mountain and sees the people’s idolatry firsthand, he throws down the stone tablets in anger, breaking them.
Moses confronts Aaron, who tries to deflect responsibility, and then calls for those who are loyal to God to execute judgment on the idolaters. The tribe of Levi responds, and about 3,000 men are slain. Moses then returns to the mountain to plead for the people’s forgiveness, offering to have his own name blotted out of God’s book if necessary. God punishes the people with a plague but agrees to continue leading them to the Promised Land, though with conditions.
Exodus 33: Moses’ Intercession and God’s Presence
In Exodus 33, God instructs Moses to lead the Israelites toward the Promised Land but warns that He will not go with them personally because of their stiff-necked rebellion. God offers to send an angel in His place, but Moses insists that God’s presence is essential for their journey. “If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence” (Exodus 33:15 KJV), Moses pleads.
Moses’ intercession is effective, and God agrees to go with the people, renewing His promise to guide them. Moses then makes a bold request to see God’s glory. God responds that while Moses cannot see His face and live, He will allow Moses to see His back as He passes by, shielding him in the cleft of a rock.
Conclusion
Exodus 27 to 33 emphasizes the gravity of sin and the necessity of both justice and mercy. God provides detailed instructions for worship, ensuring that His holiness is respected in every aspect of Israel’s religious life. However, the golden calf incident serves as a stark reminder of humanity’s tendency toward rebellion and the consequences of disobedience.
Yet even in the face of Israel’s failure, God’s mercy shines through as He continues to guide His people. These chapters illustrate the delicate balance between divine justice and grace, with Moses serving as an intercessor for a sinful nation, foreshadowing the ultimate mediator to come in Christ. Through these events, the importance of God’s presence, obedience, and repentance is made clear as Israel moves forward in their journey to the Promised Land.
