Exodus Chapter 27 Bible Study: The Tabernacle’s Court and God’s Accessible Presence

Exodus Chapter 27 continues the instructions for the tabernacle, focusing on the altar of burnt offering, the courtyard, and the oil for the lampstand. Given at Mount Sinai, these commands detail the external elements of the sanctuary where God dwells among Israel. This chapter emphasizes God’s holiness, accessibility through sacrifice, and the importance of continual worship, foreshadowing Christ’s redemptive work. This study explores the events, their theological significance, practical applications, and connections to other Scriptures, offering guidance for living in God’s presence today.

Historical and Covenant Context

Exodus 27 follows the instructions for the tabernacle’s inner structure and furnishings (Exodus 25–26) within the Mosaic Covenant (Exodus 19–24). After delivering Israel from Egypt, God establishes a way to dwell among His people through the tabernacle, a portable sanctuary reflecting His presence and holiness (Exodus 25:8). The elements in this chapter—the altar, courtyard, and lampstand oil—facilitate worship and access to God, balancing His holiness with His desire for relationship.

In the ancient Near East, temples were often exclusive, but Israel’s tabernacle allowed limited access through sacrifices and priesthood, underscoring God’s grace. The precise instructions ensure the sanctuary reflects divine design, not human invention, setting Israel apart as a holy nation (Exodus 19:5–6). These commands prepare for the tabernacle’s construction (Exodus 35–40), central to Israel’s identity and worship.

The Altar of Burnt Offering

Exodus 27:1–8 describes the altar of burnt offering, a large structure (about 7.5 feet square and 4.5 feet high) made of acacia wood overlaid with bronze, located in the tabernacle’s courtyard (Exodus 27:1–2). It has horns on its corners, bronze utensils, and poles for portability (Exodus 27:3–7). This altar is where sacrifices, such as burnt offerings, are offered to atone for sin and express devotion (Leviticus 1).

Theologically, the altar represents atonement and consecration. The bronze, less precious than the gold inside the tabernacle, suits the courtyard’s less holy space, yet its durability reflects the altar’s heavy use. The horns symbolize refuge (1 Kings 1:50), and the blood applied to them signifies atonement (Leviticus 4:7). The altar points to Christ’s sacrifice, the ultimate atonement for sin (Hebrews 13:10).

Practically, this calls believers to approach God through Christ’s sacrifice, offering their lives as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1). Cross-reference: Hebrews 9:14 emphasizes Christ’s blood purifying us. The lesson is to rely on Christ’s atonement for forgiveness and to dedicate ourselves fully to God.

The Courtyard of the Tabernacle

Exodus 27:9–19 outlines the tabernacle’s courtyard, a rectangular area (about 150 feet long and 75 feet wide) enclosed by curtains of fine linen hung on bronze pillars with silver hooks (Exodus 27:9–15). The entrance, a 30-foot-wide curtain of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, faces east (Exodus 27:16). The courtyard surrounds the tabernacle and altar, creating a sacred space accessible to worshippers.

Theologically, the courtyard balances God’s holiness with accessibility. The linen curtains separate the sacred from the profane, while the entrance allows worshippers to approach through sacrifice. The silver hooks, possibly from redemption offerings (Exodus 30:11–16), point to atonement as the basis for entering God’s presence. The courtyard prefigures the access believers have through Christ (Ephesians 2:18).

Practically, this encourages believers to draw near to God through worship and repentance, knowing Christ has opened the way. Cross-reference: John 10:9 portrays Jesus as the gate to salvation. The lesson is to approach God confidently through Christ, maintaining reverence for His holiness.

The Oil for the Lampstand

Exodus 27:20–21 instructs Israel to bring pure olive oil for the lampstand (menorah) in the Holy Place, ensuring it burns continually from evening to morning (Exodus 25:31–40). The priests, Aaron and his sons, maintain the lamps, a task performed daily before God.

Theologically, the continual light symbolizes God’s constant presence and guidance. The olive oil, a product of labor, reflects Israel’s participation in worship, while its purity underscores the holiness required in God’s presence. The lampstand foreshadows Christ, the “light of the world” (John 8:12), and the Spirit’s illumination in believers (Revelation 1:4).

Practically, this calls believers to maintain consistent worship and devotion, reflecting God’s light in the world. Cross-reference: Matthew 5:16 urges letting our light shine through good deeds. The lesson is to live faithfully, illuminating others with God’s truth and love.

Theological Themes

Exodus 27 reveals key themes. God’s holiness requires reverence, seen in the sacred materials and separation of spaces. His presence is accessible through atonement, as the altar and courtyard enable worship. Sacrifice is central, pointing to Christ’s redemptive work. Continual worship reflects God’s constant presence, seen in the lampstand’s light.

These themes connect to the New Testament, where Christ fulfills the tabernacle’s purpose. He is the ultimate sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10), the gate to God’s presence (John 10:7), and the true light (John 1:9). The law reveals human sinfulness, pointing to Christ’s redemption (Galatians 3:24).

Practical Lessons for Today

Exodus 27 offers timeless principles:

Rely on Christ’s sacrifice: Approach God through Jesus’ atonement, offering your life in devotion.
Draw near with reverence: Enter God’s presence with confidence and awe, honoring His holiness.
Reflect God’s light: Live consistently to shine His truth and love in the world.
Participate in worship: Contribute to God’s work, maintaining faithful devotion.

These principles apply to worship, spiritual discipline, and daily living. Believers can honor God by relying on Christ, approaching Him reverently, and reflecting His light.

Cross-References and Broader Context

Exodus 27’s instructions are implemented in Exodus 38 and detailed in Leviticus 1–7. The New Testament connects the tabernacle to Christ’s work:

Hebrews 10:19–22: Christ’s sacrifice grants access to God’s presence.
Revelation 21:22: The New Jerusalem needs no temple, as God and the Lamb are its sanctuary.
1 Peter 2:5: Believers are a spiritual priesthood, offering sacrifices through Christ.
Philippians 2:15: Believers shine as lights in a dark world, fulfilling the lampstand’s role.

Significance of the Chapter

Exodus 27 reveals God’s desire to dwell with His people, balanced by His holiness requiring atonement and reverence. The altar, courtyard, and lampstand facilitate worship, pointing to Christ’s sacrifice, access, and light. The chapter underscores the importance of continual devotion and precise obedience to God’s design.

Practically, Exodus 27 challenges believers to rely on Christ’s atonement, approach God reverently, and reflect His light. It reminds us of our need for grace, as the law points to Jesus’ redemptive work. By living out these principles, believers embody God’s presence and advance His kingdom in the world.