Project – Examining The Significance of Altar in The Old Testament: A Biblical Model for The Pulpit Secrecy

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The concept of the altar in the Old Testament is one of profound theological and cultural significance. Altars served as physical locations where humans could encounter God, make sacrifices, and seek atonement for sins. According to Leviticus 1:9, the altar was not merely a structure for offering physical sacrifices but also symbolized the need for spiritual purity and reconciliation with the Creator. Scholars have argued that the altar serves as an important paradigm for understanding the role of sacred spaces in the broader context of worship in ancient Israel (Levine, 2000). This sacred space had an inherent connection to the notions of holiness, sacrifice, and divine presence. While the altar in the Old Testament is typically associated with communal worship, it also carries an individual dimension of atonement, reflecting God’s covenant relationship with His people (Cohen, 2014).

A pivotal aspect of the altar’s significance in the Old Testament is its role in mediating the relationship between God and humanity. The altar was a place where sacrifices for sin were made, and it served as a means of reconciliation (Exodus 30:10). The burnt offering, peace offering, sin offering, and trespass offering all involved the altar in some form. The ritual act of sacrifice on the altar is crucial in understanding the depth of sin and the necessity of atonement (Freedman, 1992). This sacrificial system, as explained by Milgrom (2001), provides a framework for understanding how the Old Testament’s sacrificial rituals were not simply acts of religious formalism but part of a broader theological worldview that emphasized purification, sanctification, and the presence of the divine. The altar, thus, becomes an essential symbol of God’s grace and mercy, but also the seriousness with which sin must be addressed.

Furthermore, the altar is often described in the Old Testament as a place of secrecy and mystery. While there is public participation in sacrificial rituals, the altar was also a location that carried profound secrecy, a dimension that is often overlooked in modern interpretations of Old Testament worship. According to Dempsey (2013), the altar’s significance extends beyond its role in public worship to its place as an intimate space where individuals could encounter God in private reflection, repentance, and communion. The veiled nature of the temple and the restricted access to certain parts of the altar, as illustrated by the Holy of Holies, reflects the divine mystery that permeates the sacred. This secrecy and restricted access to the altar and its inner sanctum have important implications for contemporary Christian worship, particularly in understanding the significance of the pulpit as a sacred space.

In examining the altar’s connection to the pulpit, a strong theological parallel emerges. The pulpit in Christian worship serves as a modern equivalent of the altar, functioning as a space where God’s word is proclaimed and where the congregation gathers to encounter the sacred (Baker, 2003). The pulpit, like the altar, is a place of both public proclamation and secret encounter. The pulpit is often veiled in its role as a space for intimate spiritual reflection and confession. Its significance, therefore, can be understood not just in terms of its physicality, but in its capacity to mediate divine truth and facilitate the presence of God in the midst of worship. The pulpit is not merely a podium for sermon delivery but is a sacred space where the Word of God enters the lives of the faithful, echoing the function of the altar in the Old Testament (Hughes, 1995).

Another critical aspect of the altar’s significance is its connection to the themes of consecration and sanctification. In the Old Testament, the altar was consecrated for divine use, setting it apart as holy (Exodus 29:37). This consecration process involved both the physical and spiritual purification of the altar, which parallels the consecration and sanctification of the pulpit in modern Christian settings. Just as the altar was set apart for divine purposes, the pulpit must be consecrated as a space through which God’s Word is communicated (Douglas, 2012). This parallel highlights the need for reverence and sanctity in spaces where God’s presence is believed to dwell, underscoring the seriousness with which the church should treat the pulpit as a place for the sacred and for the administration of the Word.

In conclusion, the altar in the Old Testament is not just a historical or cultural artifact; it represents a profound theological concept that continues to resonate in contemporary Christian worship. The secrecy, sanctity, and significance of the altar as a space of encounter with God serves as a model for understanding the pulpit’s role in the modern church. The pulpit, like the altar, is a sacred space where God’s presence is invoked, and where the community gathers for both public worship and private reflection. The biblical model of the altar offers a rich theological foundation for understanding how modern Christian worship can draw upon the ancient traditions of the Old Testament, emphasizing secrecy, sanctification, and the mediation of divine truth.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

The altar holds a central place in the Old Testament as a sacred space where sacrifices are made, and divine reconciliation occurs. However, the deeper theological and symbolic significance of the altar in mediating God’s presence, holiness, and atonement has not been fully explored in contemporary Christian worship contexts. While much has been written about the altar in the context of Jewish ritual and ancient Israelite practices, the theological implications of the altar’s role in worship and its potential parallel to the modern pulpit remain under-examined. Furthermore, there is limited scholarly discussion on how the altar’s secrecy, sanctity, and divine function can inform and shape modern worship practices, especially in understanding the sacred nature of the pulpit in Christian traditions. The problem, therefore, lies in the insufficient exploration of the Old Testament altar’s symbolism and how it can provide a framework for understanding and enhancing the significance of the pulpit as a sacred space in contemporary Christian worship.

As worship practices evolve, there is a growing need to revisit ancient biblical models and their relevance in the modern church. The pulpit, while a central feature of Protestant worship, often operates without a full understanding of its theological roots, particularly its relationship to the altar in Old Testament sacrificial practices. The pulpit is sometimes seen merely as a platform for sermon delivery, rather than a sacred space imbued with theological weight. This lack of understanding detracts from the sanctity of the space and diminishes its potential to mediate divine truth, similar to the role of the altar in the Old Testament. The problem, therefore, is twofold: first, the failure to grasp the profound theological meaning of the altar in the Old Testament, and second, the failure to apply these insights to the contemporary Christian pulpit.

The altar’s significance in the Old Testament extended beyond its physical function as a place of sacrifice. It was a site of atonement, reconciliation, and the experience of God’s presence. Despite this, contemporary Christian liturgical practices often overlook the altar’s deeper symbolic role. In many churches, the pulpit is treated as a mere functional structure rather than a sacred space where God’s Word is proclaimed and encountered. The result is a diminished understanding of the pulpit’s spiritual importance. This gap in understanding means that the congregation may miss out on the opportunity to experience a deeper, more intimate encounter with the divine through the preaching of God’s Word. The problem is compounded by the lack of scholarship that connects the altar’s sacrificial and secretive roles in the Old Testament to the pulpit’s function in modern worship settings.

Another pressing issue is the need for a theological framework that connects the Old Testament altar with the sacredness of the pulpit. In the Old Testament, the altar was consecrated for divine use, setting it apart as a holy space. Similarly, the pulpit in modern worship needs to be understood as a consecrated place, where God’s presence is invoked and where the faithful gather to hear the Word of God. However, this concept is often neglected in worship practices today, where the pulpit is sometimes treated as a platform for public speaking rather than a space for divine proclamation. Without a robust theological framework that ties the pulpit to the altar’s sacredness, churches may struggle to foster an environment where the pulpit is viewed as a holy place where God’s voice is heard and revered.

The secrecy and sanctity of the altar also have implications for how worship spaces, including the pulpit, are designed and treated. In the Old Testament, the altar was a place that had restricted access, particularly in the inner sanctum, where only priests could enter. This limitation on access reflected the mystery and holiness of the altar as a space where divine encounters occurred. Modern church pulpits, however, often lack this sense of reverence and secrecy. The absence of boundaries or distinctions between the pulpit and other spaces in the church building may reduce the perceived sanctity of the pulpit and diminish its role in facilitating a sacred encounter between God and the worshiper. The problem, therefore, extends to the architectural and liturgical treatment of the pulpit as a sacred space in need of greater reverence and careful design.

Lastly, the relationship between the altar and the pulpit also requires attention to the theological implications of sacrifice in Christian worship. The Old Testament altar was a place of sacrifice, where offerings were made to atone for sin. In Christian worship, the concept of sacrifice is reinterpreted in light of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross. However, this theological continuity is not always reflected in the understanding of the pulpit as a space of proclamation and communion. The pulpit, in its theological and symbolic function, needs to be understood as a space where the sacrifice of Christ is proclaimed and celebrated. The absence of a theological connection between the altar and the pulpit in worship settings creates a gap in understanding the full scope of Christian worship and its connection to Old Testament sacrificial practices. This gap impedes the ability of churches to fully appreciate the sanctity of the pulpit and its role in facilitating a meaningful encounter with the divine.

The problem lies in the lack of comprehensive scholarly attention to the connection between the altar in the Old Testament and the pulpit in modern Christian worship. The altar’s role as a sacred and secretive space where sacrifices were made and divine reconciliation occurred offers valuable insights into how the pulpit can function in contemporary worship as a consecrated space where God’s Word is proclaimed with reverence and sanctity. Addressing this problem is crucial for fostering a deeper understanding of the pulpit’s theological and symbolic importance in Christian worship and enhancing the worship experience for contemporary congregations.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the Significance of Altar in The Old Testament: A Biblical Model for The Pulpit Secrecy. The specific objectives are:

1. To explore the historical and cultural significance of altars in the Old Testament.
2. To analyze the role of altars in religious practices and rituals in ancient Israel.
3. To examine the symbolism and meaning behind the construction and use of altars in biblical narratives.
4. To investigate how the concept of the altar can be applied to modern-day religious practices, specifically in relation to the pulpit.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the historical and cultural significance of altars in the Old Testament?
2. How did altars play a role in religious practices and rituals in ancient Israel?
3. What symbolism and meaning can be found behind the construction and use of altars in biblical narratives?
4. How can the concept of the altar be applied to modern-day religious practices, particularly in relation to the pulpit?

1.5. Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to deepen the understanding of the theological and symbolic importance of the pulpit in modern Christian worship by exploring its connection to the altar in the Old Testament. The altar in the Old Testament is a powerful symbol of God’s presence, atonement, and sanctification, and examining its theological implications can provide valuable insights into how the pulpit functions in contemporary worship settings. By understanding the altar’s role as a sacred, consecrated space where individuals encountered the divine, this study offers a framework for appreciating the sacredness of the pulpit as a space through which God’s Word is proclaimed and the divine presence is invoked. The significance of this study, therefore, extends beyond merely a historical or liturgical comparison; it seeks to enrich the worship experience by emphasizing the sanctity of the pulpit as an essential space in Christian worship.

One of the primary contributions of this study is its ability to bridge the gap between Old Testament worship practices and contemporary Christian liturgy. While much of modern worship tends to downplay the sacredness of the pulpit, this research will highlight the profound theological parallel between the altar’s role in the Old Testament and the pulpit’s function today. The study challenges contemporary Christians to reconsider how they approach and treat the pulpit in worship, advocating for a return to a deeper reverence for this sacred space. By reexamining the pulpit through the lens of the Old Testament altar, the study encourages churches to rethink the architecture, design, and treatment of the pulpit, thereby elevating its role as a place of divine encounter and proclamation.

Furthermore, this study has the potential to influence how pastors and church leaders approach preaching and worship. Understanding the altar as a symbol of divine sanctification and sacrifice can lead to a more profound appreciation of the pulpit as the place where God’s Word is proclaimed and where Christ’s sacrifice is continually memorialized. By highlighting the theological continuity between the altar’s sacrificial role and the pulpit’s function as a space for preaching, this study emphasizes the need for careful theological reflection on the significance of the pulpit in Christian worship. Pastors who are aware of this connection may be better equipped to lead congregations in worship that acknowledges the pulpit as a sacred space for the proclamation of God’s Word and the sanctification of the people of God.

The study also contributes to the broader conversation on the role of sacred spaces in worship. While much attention has been given to the significance of the altar in the Old Testament and its role in Jewish worship, the connection between these sacred spaces and modern Christian practices has been largely neglected. By exploring this connection, this research highlights the continued relevance of ancient symbols and practices in modern worship. The significance of sacred spaces such as the altar and pulpit is not merely a historical curiosity but an ongoing theological concern that shapes the way worshipers engage with the divine. This study contributes to the broader field of liturgical studies by emphasizing the importance of understanding sacred spaces in both their historical and contemporary contexts.

Another key aspect of the study’s significance is its potential to foster a deeper sense of reverence and awe in worship settings. In many contemporary church environments, the pulpit is often treated as a functional piece of furniture rather than a sacred space. This lack of reverence can lead to a diminished sense of the sanctity of worship and the transformative power of the Word. By reclaiming the pulpit as a space that mirrors the Old Testament altar—a space consecrated for divine use and mediation—this study encourages worshipers to approach the pulpit with the same reverence that would be afforded to a sacred altar. This shift in perception has the potential to enhance the spiritual atmosphere of worship services and deepen the congregation’s engagement with the preached Word.

Finally, this study is significant for its potential to influence how worship is taught and practiced within the church. By drawing on the rich theological traditions of the Old Testament and applying them to modern worship contexts, the study encourages a holistic understanding of worship that incorporates both the Word and the sacrificial act of Christ. As worship leaders and congregants gain a greater understanding of the altar-pulpit connection, they may begin to see their worship experience not just as a time for intellectual learning or moral teaching but as an opportunity for encountering the divine. This study thus encourages a broader theological vision for worship that emphasizes the sacredness of the pulpit and fosters a deeper connection to the divine through the proclamation of God’s Word.

In summary, the significance of this study lies in its potential to reshape both the understanding and practice of Christian worship. By examining the altar’s theological and symbolic function in the Old Testament and applying this understanding to the pulpit, the study offers a richer perspective on the sanctity and significance of the pulpit in contemporary Christian worship. The insights gained from this study could inspire churches to treat the pulpit with greater reverence, transforming it into a place where the divine presence is experienced, and the Word of God is proclaimed with power and sanctity.

1.6. Scope of the Study

The study examines the Significance of Altar in The Old Testament: A Biblical Model for The Pulpit Secrecy. The research is an exploratory study.

1.7. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Significant: In this context, “significant” refers to something of great importance, meaning it holds considerable value or impact in understanding or influencing a particular subject, such as worship practices or theological frameworks. When something is significant, it is considered crucial for gaining deeper insights or making meaningful changes in a field of study.
2. Altar: The altar in religious contexts, particularly in the Old Testament, is a sacred structure or place used for offerings and sacrifices to God. It was central to the worship practices of the ancient Israelites, where various sacrifices, including burnt offerings, peace offerings, and sin offerings, were made to seek divine favor or atonement for sin. The altar symbolized the presence of God and the means of reconciliation between God and humanity.
3. Old Testament: The Old Testament refers to the first section of the Christian Bible, comprising a collection of sacred writings that form the foundational scriptures for both Judaism and Christianity. It includes historical narratives, laws, prophecies, poetry, and wisdom literature, and focuses on God’s covenant with Israel, as well as the themes of sin, salvation, and divine justice. The Old Testament is divided into books such as Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, and Isaiah, among others.
4. Biblical Model: A biblical model refers to a pattern, principle, or example found in the Bible that can be used as a standard or guide for understanding certain practices, behaviors, or beliefs in both historical and contemporary contexts. In the case of this study, a “biblical model” refers to how certain elements of worship, such as the altar, were used in the Old Testament and how they can serve as a model for current Christian practices, particularly the pulpit in modern worship.
5. The Pulpit: The pulpit is a raised platform or lectern in a Christian church where the preacher or pastor delivers sermons or messages to the congregation. It symbolizes the authority and sacred nature of the preaching ministry, serving as a space for the proclamation of God’s Word. The pulpit is often considered a focal point in Christian worship, representing the teaching and guiding function of the church.
6. Secrecy: In this context, “secrecy” refers to the aspect of hiddenness or restricted access associated with certain sacred spaces or acts in worship. In the Old Testament, the altar and certain areas of the temple, such as the Holy of Holies, were places of secrecy, where only designated individuals, such as priests, could approach. Secrecy in worship practices can represent the mystery and holiness of God’s presence, where certain aspects of divine engagement are revealed only to specific individuals or in specific circumstances.

Project – Examining The Significance of Altar in The Old Testament: A Biblical Model for The Pulpit Secrecy