v1-8: The altar of burnt offering. This was made of bronze, and was the place where sacrifices for sin were offered. The altar was placed outside the Tabernacle, for all who approached had to come here first. We are reminded that we can only approach God through Jesus Christ who gave His life a sacrifice for sins; He has offered Himself up to God.

The altar was large, 9 feet high, and 15 feet square. Since acacia wood was heavy, the altar was hollow (v8). It may have been filled with earth (20.24). There was a ramp, not steps (20.26), by which the priest would approach it. The horns were used to ensure the sacrifice remained on it (Ps118.27 margin), it was also a place of safety (1 Kings 2.28).

v9-15: The courtyard of the Tabernacle was an area 150 x 75 feet (100 x 50 cubits). The curtains around this courtyard were hung from posts every 7 feet. The curtains were of white linen, and would have shimmered, making for a dramatic sight in the desert.

v16-17: The gate of the courtyard consisted of a curtain of blue and purple and scarlet and fine linen thread, like the veil (26.31) and the screen (26.36). Jesus Christ is always our way to God, from wherever we start. In Him we have access with confidence (Eph 3.12).

The veil was hung by gold hooks in silver sockets; the screen by gold hooks in bronze sockets; the gate by silver hooks in bronze sockets.

v18: The overall dimensions of the courtyard.

v19: Outside the Tabernacle, but inside the courtyard, all the utensils were made of bronze.

v20-21: The oil for the lampstand speaks of the Holy Spirit, and His testimony of Christ. We must also have that "oil", but we need the constant tending by Christ, our High Priest. The oil had to be pure; our lives must be filled with the Holy Spirit, and be unmixed with human wisdom.