Here is a warning about what happens the moment you try to climb toward God on your own strength. But have you ever read stranger verses than this?
“ And do not go up to my altar on steps, or your private parts may be exposed.” (Exodus 20: 26)
Some scholars think that the pagan altars stood on elevated platforms reached by steps. Presumably, climbing higher meant you were closer to the gods. But God reveals that He doesn’t want any steps on His altar, for they would expose themselves. You cannot climb toward God without laying something bare about yourself.
In Canaanite worship practices, elevated altars and ritual exposure were intertwined. God is drawing a line: that is not how I am approached.
The shame of religious self-effort is not just ineffective; it leaves you more exposed, not less. Only grace covers us. Only descent saves us. Trying to get higher will do nothing but reveal your need for covering.
The altar is not a monument to human religious effort. It is a designated place of divine descent. You do not go up to God. You come, on level ground, and He comes down to you.
An important message from a very strange verse!
Missions Paul 