The concept of "The New Altar" in the Bible is often associated with renewal, restoration, and the re-establishment of proper worship practices among the people of God. This theme is particularly evident in the Old Testament, where altars play a significant role in the religious life of Israel, serving as places for sacrifices, offerings, and encounters with God.

Biblical Context and Significance

1. Ezra's Restoration of the Altar: One of the most prominent instances of a "new altar" is found in the book of Ezra. After the Babylonian exile, the Israelites returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. The first step in this process was the construction of a new altar. Ezra 3:2-3 states, "Then Jeshua son of Jozadak and his fellow priests, along with Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and his associates, began to build the altar of the God of Israel to offer burnt offerings on it, as it is written in the Law of Moses the man of God. They set up the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings upon it to the LORD—both the morning and evening burnt offerings."

This act of rebuilding the altar was significant as it symbolized the re-establishment of the covenant relationship between God and His people. It was a return to the prescribed worship and a renewal of national identity centered around the worship of Yahweh.

2. Gideon's Altar: In Judges 6, Gideon is instructed by God to tear down the altar of Baal and build a new altar to the Lord. Judges 6:26 records God's command: "Then build a proper altar to the LORD your God on the top of this stronghold. Take the second bull and offer it as a burnt offering with the wood of the Asherah pole that you cut down." Gideon's obedience in constructing a new altar was a declaration of allegiance to God and a rejection of idolatry.

3. Hezekiah's Reforms: King Hezekiah is another figure associated with the renewal of worship through the restoration of the altar. In 2 Chronicles 29, Hezekiah cleanses the temple and restores the altar for sacrifices. This act was part of a broader reform to bring the nation back to faithful worship. 2 Chronicles 29:18 states, "Then they went in to King Hezekiah and said: 'We have cleansed the whole temple of the LORD, the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, and the table of the showbread and all its articles.'"

Theological Implications

The construction of a new altar in these biblical narratives underscores the importance of proper worship and the centrality of sacrifice in the relationship between God and His people. The altar is a place of atonement, thanksgiving, and communion with God. It signifies a return to divine order and the re-establishment of God's presence among His people.

In the New Testament, the concept of the altar takes on a spiritual dimension. Hebrews 13:10 states, "We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat." This passage suggests that the ultimate fulfillment of the altar is found in Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice on the cross is the final and perfect offering for sin. The new altar, therefore, is not a physical structure but the spiritual reality of Christ's atoning work, which believers access through faith.

Conclusion

The theme of the new altar in Scripture highlights the ongoing need for renewal and restoration in the worship of God. It calls believers to examine their own lives and worship practices, ensuring they align with the truth of God's Word and the finished work of Christ.