Exodus Chapter 30
Further instructions are given in this chapter for furnishings of the tabernacle. One that is not talked about very much is the altar of incense. This small altar was kept in the Most Holy Place just outside the Holy of Holies. It was not an altar in which sacrifices would be made but was deemed as holy by the dipping of blood that came from the altar of sacrifice and was then smeared on the horns of the altar of incense. The smeared blood was a reminder of the sacrifice that had been offered for atonement. The incense that was burnt was a symbol of the sweet smell of praise and thanksgiving given in prayer to God for the atonement. The offering of incense was never meant to be the many ritualistic things that modern religion has made it to be, but a simple way for the priest to symbolize his prayers of praise sent to a Holy God.
Let's Reflect
1. The Altar of Incense was placed very close to the Ark of the Covenant where the Mercy Seat was. What separated the altar from the Mercy Seat?
2. How often was Aaron instructed to burn incense on the Altar of Incense?
3. According to verse 34 what were the ingredients that God wanted them to use to produce the sweet-smelling incense?
Revelation 5:8 And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.
4. Verses 22-33 speak of another substance they were to create - the anointing oil. This oil was to be used to consecrate everything in the tabernacle designated as Holy for service to God. There was nothing magical about this oil. It held no special power. It was created to be set separate for the worship of God. What did God warn them not to do with the oil?
5. The census tax was an equal amount paid by every Israelite age 20 and older. It was called a Ransom Tax because it symbolized every person’s need to be ransomed by God. This money was brought to the place where they could find atonement for their sins at the altar. This money was not the same as the free will offerings that the people would be asked to give to the temple, but more like a tax that was used for the construction of the silver holders of the temple and various expenses. How much does the Bible say each person was to pay?
6. It was also called a census tax because God coincided the event of the giving of the Ransom Tax with taking a census of the people. God did not want them to take a census outside of His order because He wanted them to depend on Him and not be filled with pride by their large number of populations. What did God promise would not happen to them as they took the Census Tax at the tabernacle?
7. In verses 17-21 we learn about the Bronze Basin. It was used to hold water for washing. Who was instructed to use this basin?
In all of these instructions we are gaining more understanding how much God wanted to create a special place where He could meet with the people. God wanted to dwell with the people, and the tabernacle was a reminder of the Holiness and the enduring lovingkindness and mercy of God.
