Exodus 38

Exodus 38:1

The Parts to Be Made

In this section, the parts of the tabernacle to be made all come to our attention. Just like the materials, the parts also speak of the Lord Jesus. In the parts everything takes shape and in the spiritual application we see an extension of the truths that are connected with the Lord Jesus and His work. There are parts that illuminate the Person of Christ from a certain side. Other parts represent truths resulting from His work on the cross. We also see here again how all contributions are necessary and complement each other. Everyone delivers what is necessary, so that the whole can come into being.

A remarkable addition is that the veil is “the curtain of the screen” (Exodus 35:12). What that means is written in Numbers 4: “When the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down the veil of the screen and cover the ark of the testimony with it” (Numbers 4:5).

Exodus 38:2

The Parts to Be Made

In this section, the parts of the tabernacle to be made all come to our attention. Just like the materials, the parts also speak of the Lord Jesus. In the parts everything takes shape and in the spiritual application we see an extension of the truths that are connected with the Lord Jesus and His work. There are parts that illuminate the Person of Christ from a certain side. Other parts represent truths resulting from His work on the cross. We also see here again how all contributions are necessary and complement each other. Everyone delivers what is necessary, so that the whole can come into being.

A remarkable addition is that the veil is “the curtain of the screen” (Exodus 35:12). What that means is written in Numbers 4: “When the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down the veil of the screen and cover the ark of the testimony with it” (Numbers 4:5).

Exodus 38:3

The Parts to Be Made

In this section, the parts of the tabernacle to be made all come to our attention. Just like the materials, the parts also speak of the Lord Jesus. In the parts everything takes shape and in the spiritual application we see an extension of the truths that are connected with the Lord Jesus and His work. There are parts that illuminate the Person of Christ from a certain side. Other parts represent truths resulting from His work on the cross. We also see here again how all contributions are necessary and complement each other. Everyone delivers what is necessary, so that the whole can come into being.

A remarkable addition is that the veil is “the curtain of the screen” (Exodus 35:12). What that means is written in Numbers 4: “When the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down the veil of the screen and cover the ark of the testimony with it” (Numbers 4:5).

Exodus 38:4

The Parts to Be Made

In this section, the parts of the tabernacle to be made all come to our attention. Just like the materials, the parts also speak of the Lord Jesus. In the parts everything takes shape and in the spiritual application we see an extension of the truths that are connected with the Lord Jesus and His work. There are parts that illuminate the Person of Christ from a certain side. Other parts represent truths resulting from His work on the cross. We also see here again how all contributions are necessary and complement each other. Everyone delivers what is necessary, so that the whole can come into being.

A remarkable addition is that the veil is “the curtain of the screen” (Exodus 35:12). What that means is written in Numbers 4: “When the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down the veil of the screen and cover the ark of the testimony with it” (Numbers 4:5).

Exodus 38:5

The Parts to Be Made

In this section, the parts of the tabernacle to be made all come to our attention. Just like the materials, the parts also speak of the Lord Jesus. In the parts everything takes shape and in the spiritual application we see an extension of the truths that are connected with the Lord Jesus and His work. There are parts that illuminate the Person of Christ from a certain side. Other parts represent truths resulting from His work on the cross. We also see here again how all contributions are necessary and complement each other. Everyone delivers what is necessary, so that the whole can come into being.

A remarkable addition is that the veil is “the curtain of the screen” (Exodus 35:12). What that means is written in Numbers 4: “When the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down the veil of the screen and cover the ark of the testimony with it” (Numbers 4:5).

Exodus 38:6

The Parts to Be Made

In this section, the parts of the tabernacle to be made all come to our attention. Just like the materials, the parts also speak of the Lord Jesus. In the parts everything takes shape and in the spiritual application we see an extension of the truths that are connected with the Lord Jesus and His work. There are parts that illuminate the Person of Christ from a certain side. Other parts represent truths resulting from His work on the cross. We also see here again how all contributions are necessary and complement each other. Everyone delivers what is necessary, so that the whole can come into being.

A remarkable addition is that the veil is “the curtain of the screen” (Exodus 35:12). What that means is written in Numbers 4: “When the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down the veil of the screen and cover the ark of the testimony with it” (Numbers 4:5).

Exodus 38:7

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:8

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:9

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:10

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:11

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:12

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:13

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:14

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:15

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:16

The People Bring the Contribution

After Moses has addressed the people, they leave, but not as forgetful hearers. Men and women who have been touched in their hearts come back with their possessions to make them available for the construction. Men come with fabrics and metals and wood. Women bring what they have made with their own hands. All are animated by one desire: to meet the demand of the LORD. They share in what occupies His heart. It is all given to Him. What joy for Him!

Women participate fully in the work for the tabernacle. They have special qualities that men do not have. They also often have a better sense of what is appropriate for God’s purpose. There was no one among the disciples who performed an act like Mary. She anointed the feet of the Lord Jesus (John 12:3). She also receives a special mention for this from Him (Matthew 26:13). Women are also mentioned among the fellow workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2-3).

In Exodus 32 they brought their jewels to make the golden calf (Exodus 32:3). They have lost that jewelry and unfortunately cannot offer it now. In the same way we have lost for the Lord’s service what we have given to the world.

Exodus 38:17

Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel and Oholiab are filled by the LORD with His Spirit and with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. In this way they can shape the materials that the people bring in a way that is pleasing to Him. He gives the creativity, but does not leave how to deal with it to man himself. What they design in their creativity must find its origin in the work of God’s Spirit. It is not about whether it corresponds to the taste of man, but whether it corresponds to Who God is.

This is also the case later in the construction of the temple. Nothing is left to the imagination of Solomon either. David gave “gave to his son Solomon the plan of the porch [of the temple], its buildings, … and the plan of all that he had in mind” (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). The same applies to the local church. For the meeting of the church, the Lord has given clear directions that we cannot change or even ignore at our own discretion (1 Corinthians 11:23a; 1 Corinthians 14:37).

Exodus 38:18

Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel and Oholiab are filled by the LORD with His Spirit and with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. In this way they can shape the materials that the people bring in a way that is pleasing to Him. He gives the creativity, but does not leave how to deal with it to man himself. What they design in their creativity must find its origin in the work of God’s Spirit. It is not about whether it corresponds to the taste of man, but whether it corresponds to Who God is.

This is also the case later in the construction of the temple. Nothing is left to the imagination of Solomon either. David gave “gave to his son Solomon the plan of the porch [of the temple], its buildings, … and the plan of all that he had in mind” (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). The same applies to the local church. For the meeting of the church, the Lord has given clear directions that we cannot change or even ignore at our own discretion (1 Corinthians 11:23a; 1 Corinthians 14:37).

Exodus 38:19

Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel and Oholiab are filled by the LORD with His Spirit and with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. In this way they can shape the materials that the people bring in a way that is pleasing to Him. He gives the creativity, but does not leave how to deal with it to man himself. What they design in their creativity must find its origin in the work of God’s Spirit. It is not about whether it corresponds to the taste of man, but whether it corresponds to Who God is.

This is also the case later in the construction of the temple. Nothing is left to the imagination of Solomon either. David gave “gave to his son Solomon the plan of the porch [of the temple], its buildings, … and the plan of all that he had in mind” (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). The same applies to the local church. For the meeting of the church, the Lord has given clear directions that we cannot change or even ignore at our own discretion (1 Corinthians 11:23a; 1 Corinthians 14:37).

Exodus 38:20

Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel and Oholiab are filled by the LORD with His Spirit and with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. In this way they can shape the materials that the people bring in a way that is pleasing to Him. He gives the creativity, but does not leave how to deal with it to man himself. What they design in their creativity must find its origin in the work of God’s Spirit. It is not about whether it corresponds to the taste of man, but whether it corresponds to Who God is.

This is also the case later in the construction of the temple. Nothing is left to the imagination of Solomon either. David gave “gave to his son Solomon the plan of the porch [of the temple], its buildings, … and the plan of all that he had in mind” (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). The same applies to the local church. For the meeting of the church, the Lord has given clear directions that we cannot change or even ignore at our own discretion (1 Corinthians 11:23a; 1 Corinthians 14:37).

Exodus 38:21

Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel and Oholiab are filled by the LORD with His Spirit and with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. In this way they can shape the materials that the people bring in a way that is pleasing to Him. He gives the creativity, but does not leave how to deal with it to man himself. What they design in their creativity must find its origin in the work of God’s Spirit. It is not about whether it corresponds to the taste of man, but whether it corresponds to Who God is.

This is also the case later in the construction of the temple. Nothing is left to the imagination of Solomon either. David gave “gave to his son Solomon the plan of the porch [of the temple], its buildings, … and the plan of all that he had in mind” (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). The same applies to the local church. For the meeting of the church, the Lord has given clear directions that we cannot change or even ignore at our own discretion (1 Corinthians 11:23a; 1 Corinthians 14:37).

Exodus 38:22

Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel and Oholiab are filled by the LORD with His Spirit and with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. In this way they can shape the materials that the people bring in a way that is pleasing to Him. He gives the creativity, but does not leave how to deal with it to man himself. What they design in their creativity must find its origin in the work of God’s Spirit. It is not about whether it corresponds to the taste of man, but whether it corresponds to Who God is.

This is also the case later in the construction of the temple. Nothing is left to the imagination of Solomon either. David gave “gave to his son Solomon the plan of the porch [of the temple], its buildings, … and the plan of all that he had in mind” (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). The same applies to the local church. For the meeting of the church, the Lord has given clear directions that we cannot change or even ignore at our own discretion (1 Corinthians 11:23a; 1 Corinthians 14:37).

Exodus 38:24

Introduction

In this and the following chapter, a second description of the tabernacle follows. This is given on the occasion of the actual construction of the tabernacle. God’s Spirit does not suffice by placing a general remark that everything is made according to the precepts the LORD has given Moses.

The fact that all the details are mentioned again is not a useless repetition. It shows that no detail is unimportant. Every repetition is important. It underlines what has been said before and indicates its certainty (cf. Philippians 3:1). As God has shown it on the mountain, so it is made, with those materials and in that form. Knowing that something has to happen, and also how it has to happen, is different from doing it and doing it as it was said. This new description shows that God forgets nothing of what is done for Him (Hebrews 6:10).

Who Perform the Work

Moses sets to work the men who have received wisdom from the LORD for this purpose. Their competence is reflected in the work they do. This adequacy is not from themselves, but from God. This also applies to us, as Paul says: “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as [coming] from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5). Moses is here a picture of the Lord Jesus. For the construction of the church, the house of God, the Lord Jesus has given gifts (Ephesians 4:11-12). These gifts go to work on His command.

Two things are important in every work for the Lord: adequacy and willingness. Someone can be competent for a work, but if he does not want to use his gift, nothing happens. Sometimes someone must also be encouraged to perform his ministry: “Say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it”” (Colossians 4:17).

Anyone who does a work for the Lord will offer that work and its results to Him as a pleasant sacrifice to Him. That’s how Paul saw his service in the gospel which he performed in the power “of the grace that was given me from God, to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles, ministering as a priest the gospel of God, so that [my] offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:15b-16).

Exodus 38:25

Introduction

In this and the following chapter, a second description of the tabernacle follows. This is given on the occasion of the actual construction of the tabernacle. God’s Spirit does not suffice by placing a general remark that everything is made according to the precepts the LORD has given Moses.

The fact that all the details are mentioned again is not a useless repetition. It shows that no detail is unimportant. Every repetition is important. It underlines what has been said before and indicates its certainty (cf. Philippians 3:1). As God has shown it on the mountain, so it is made, with those materials and in that form. Knowing that something has to happen, and also how it has to happen, is different from doing it and doing it as it was said. This new description shows that God forgets nothing of what is done for Him (Hebrews 6:10).

Who Perform the Work

Moses sets to work the men who have received wisdom from the LORD for this purpose. Their competence is reflected in the work they do. This adequacy is not from themselves, but from God. This also applies to us, as Paul says: “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as [coming] from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5). Moses is here a picture of the Lord Jesus. For the construction of the church, the house of God, the Lord Jesus has given gifts (Ephesians 4:11-12). These gifts go to work on His command.

Two things are important in every work for the Lord: adequacy and willingness. Someone can be competent for a work, but if he does not want to use his gift, nothing happens. Sometimes someone must also be encouraged to perform his ministry: “Say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it”” (Colossians 4:17).

Anyone who does a work for the Lord will offer that work and its results to Him as a pleasant sacrifice to Him. That’s how Paul saw his service in the gospel which he performed in the power “of the grace that was given me from God, to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles, ministering as a priest the gospel of God, so that [my] offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:15b-16).

Exodus 38:26

The People Bring Much More Than Enough

The whole people of God provide materials for the construction work. They do this “every morning”. It is good to start the day by bringing our contributions to the construction of the house of God. With us this can happen by offering ourselves and what we have. We make ourselves available and ask the Lord how He wants to use us that day to promote His work. That can be by speaking to someone about the Lord Jesus as Savior. It can also be by going somewhere to encourage someone.

The people are so willing to give that too much is brought. We also see this attitude among the poor believers in Macedonia who are held up by Paul as an example to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). It is not an order or a commandment. On the contrary. We read from these believers in Macedonia that they begged Paul to favor them to give, in their desire to share in a service performed for other saints. Service is not only ‘serving with the Word’ but also by deed.

Paul can testify of them that they have given as much as they could, yes, that they have given more than they could actually give. They came to this because to them giving was a favor. Giving is a privilege and not a duty. Anyone who sees this in this way is not clinging to his money. The Lord Jesus Himself said that you become happier in giving than in receiving (Acts 20:35). What the Macedonians gave even exceeded Paul’s expectations.

What secret lies behind such generosity? This is the secret: “They first gave themselves to the Lord” (2 Corinthians 8:5). Whoever first gives himself to the Lord in complete surrender, has no difficulty in giving away his earthly possessions. Whoever is full of the Lord trusts Him that He can provide all that is necessary, for “the earth is the LORD’s, and all it contains” (Psalms 24:1).

Are these examples of willingness – from Israel and the Macedonians – not embarrassing for us? By God’s grace and by His Word and Spirit we may know so much more about Who He is than Israel; by His grace we have been brought into a much more intimate relationship with Him; we are as a church most intimately connected to the Lord Jesus; we may know that the church is the dwelling place of God in the Spirit – and what do we do with this knowledge? Does it lead us to make all our time, powers and resources available to the Lord Jesus?

The call to us is: “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not [in] vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Lord Jesus says: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38). Someone once said that too much has to be done by too few. That is more indicative of the current situation than the one we find here with Israel. It is to be hoped that today we will follow their example.

Then comes the statement that there is no need to give more. “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Giving is His nature. When we give, we act according to His nature. If He finds that enough has been given, He lets you know.

Voluntary gifts are also used for the construction of the temple. David praises the LORD that He has put this voluntariness in his heart and the heart of His people (1 Chronicles 29:14).

Exodus 38:27

The People Bring Much More Than Enough

The whole people of God provide materials for the construction work. They do this “every morning”. It is good to start the day by bringing our contributions to the construction of the house of God. With us this can happen by offering ourselves and what we have. We make ourselves available and ask the Lord how He wants to use us that day to promote His work. That can be by speaking to someone about the Lord Jesus as Savior. It can also be by going somewhere to encourage someone.

The people are so willing to give that too much is brought. We also see this attitude among the poor believers in Macedonia who are held up by Paul as an example to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). It is not an order or a commandment. On the contrary. We read from these believers in Macedonia that they begged Paul to favor them to give, in their desire to share in a service performed for other saints. Service is not only ‘serving with the Word’ but also by deed.

Paul can testify of them that they have given as much as they could, yes, that they have given more than they could actually give. They came to this because to them giving was a favor. Giving is a privilege and not a duty. Anyone who sees this in this way is not clinging to his money. The Lord Jesus Himself said that you become happier in giving than in receiving (Acts 20:35). What the Macedonians gave even exceeded Paul’s expectations.

What secret lies behind such generosity? This is the secret: “They first gave themselves to the Lord” (2 Corinthians 8:5). Whoever first gives himself to the Lord in complete surrender, has no difficulty in giving away his earthly possessions. Whoever is full of the Lord trusts Him that He can provide all that is necessary, for “the earth is the LORD’s, and all it contains” (Psalms 24:1).

Are these examples of willingness – from Israel and the Macedonians – not embarrassing for us? By God’s grace and by His Word and Spirit we may know so much more about Who He is than Israel; by His grace we have been brought into a much more intimate relationship with Him; we are as a church most intimately connected to the Lord Jesus; we may know that the church is the dwelling place of God in the Spirit – and what do we do with this knowledge? Does it lead us to make all our time, powers and resources available to the Lord Jesus?

The call to us is: “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not [in] vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Lord Jesus says: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38). Someone once said that too much has to be done by too few. That is more indicative of the current situation than the one we find here with Israel. It is to be hoped that today we will follow their example.

Then comes the statement that there is no need to give more. “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Giving is His nature. When we give, we act according to His nature. If He finds that enough has been given, He lets you know.

Voluntary gifts are also used for the construction of the temple. David praises the LORD that He has put this voluntariness in his heart and the heart of His people (1 Chronicles 29:14).

Exodus 38:28

The People Bring Much More Than Enough

The whole people of God provide materials for the construction work. They do this “every morning”. It is good to start the day by bringing our contributions to the construction of the house of God. With us this can happen by offering ourselves and what we have. We make ourselves available and ask the Lord how He wants to use us that day to promote His work. That can be by speaking to someone about the Lord Jesus as Savior. It can also be by going somewhere to encourage someone.

The people are so willing to give that too much is brought. We also see this attitude among the poor believers in Macedonia who are held up by Paul as an example to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). It is not an order or a commandment. On the contrary. We read from these believers in Macedonia that they begged Paul to favor them to give, in their desire to share in a service performed for other saints. Service is not only ‘serving with the Word’ but also by deed.

Paul can testify of them that they have given as much as they could, yes, that they have given more than they could actually give. They came to this because to them giving was a favor. Giving is a privilege and not a duty. Anyone who sees this in this way is not clinging to his money. The Lord Jesus Himself said that you become happier in giving than in receiving (Acts 20:35). What the Macedonians gave even exceeded Paul’s expectations.

What secret lies behind such generosity? This is the secret: “They first gave themselves to the Lord” (2 Corinthians 8:5). Whoever first gives himself to the Lord in complete surrender, has no difficulty in giving away his earthly possessions. Whoever is full of the Lord trusts Him that He can provide all that is necessary, for “the earth is the LORD’s, and all it contains” (Psalms 24:1).

Are these examples of willingness – from Israel and the Macedonians – not embarrassing for us? By God’s grace and by His Word and Spirit we may know so much more about Who He is than Israel; by His grace we have been brought into a much more intimate relationship with Him; we are as a church most intimately connected to the Lord Jesus; we may know that the church is the dwelling place of God in the Spirit – and what do we do with this knowledge? Does it lead us to make all our time, powers and resources available to the Lord Jesus?

The call to us is: “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not [in] vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Lord Jesus says: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38). Someone once said that too much has to be done by too few. That is more indicative of the current situation than the one we find here with Israel. It is to be hoped that today we will follow their example.

Then comes the statement that there is no need to give more. “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Giving is His nature. When we give, we act according to His nature. If He finds that enough has been given, He lets you know.

Voluntary gifts are also used for the construction of the temple. David praises the LORD that He has put this voluntariness in his heart and the heart of His people (1 Chronicles 29:14).

Exodus 38:29

The People Bring Much More Than Enough

The whole people of God provide materials for the construction work. They do this “every morning”. It is good to start the day by bringing our contributions to the construction of the house of God. With us this can happen by offering ourselves and what we have. We make ourselves available and ask the Lord how He wants to use us that day to promote His work. That can be by speaking to someone about the Lord Jesus as Savior. It can also be by going somewhere to encourage someone.

The people are so willing to give that too much is brought. We also see this attitude among the poor believers in Macedonia who are held up by Paul as an example to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). It is not an order or a commandment. On the contrary. We read from these believers in Macedonia that they begged Paul to favor them to give, in their desire to share in a service performed for other saints. Service is not only ‘serving with the Word’ but also by deed.

Paul can testify of them that they have given as much as they could, yes, that they have given more than they could actually give. They came to this because to them giving was a favor. Giving is a privilege and not a duty. Anyone who sees this in this way is not clinging to his money. The Lord Jesus Himself said that you become happier in giving than in receiving (Acts 20:35). What the Macedonians gave even exceeded Paul’s expectations.

What secret lies behind such generosity? This is the secret: “They first gave themselves to the Lord” (2 Corinthians 8:5). Whoever first gives himself to the Lord in complete surrender, has no difficulty in giving away his earthly possessions. Whoever is full of the Lord trusts Him that He can provide all that is necessary, for “the earth is the LORD’s, and all it contains” (Psalms 24:1).

Are these examples of willingness – from Israel and the Macedonians – not embarrassing for us? By God’s grace and by His Word and Spirit we may know so much more about Who He is than Israel; by His grace we have been brought into a much more intimate relationship with Him; we are as a church most intimately connected to the Lord Jesus; we may know that the church is the dwelling place of God in the Spirit – and what do we do with this knowledge? Does it lead us to make all our time, powers and resources available to the Lord Jesus?

The call to us is: “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not [in] vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Lord Jesus says: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38). Someone once said that too much has to be done by too few. That is more indicative of the current situation than the one we find here with Israel. It is to be hoped that today we will follow their example.

Then comes the statement that there is no need to give more. “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Giving is His nature. When we give, we act according to His nature. If He finds that enough has been given, He lets you know.

Voluntary gifts are also used for the construction of the temple. David praises the LORD that He has put this voluntariness in his heart and the heart of His people (1 Chronicles 29:14).

Exodus 38:30

The People Bring Much More Than Enough

The whole people of God provide materials for the construction work. They do this “every morning”. It is good to start the day by bringing our contributions to the construction of the house of God. With us this can happen by offering ourselves and what we have. We make ourselves available and ask the Lord how He wants to use us that day to promote His work. That can be by speaking to someone about the Lord Jesus as Savior. It can also be by going somewhere to encourage someone.

The people are so willing to give that too much is brought. We also see this attitude among the poor believers in Macedonia who are held up by Paul as an example to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). It is not an order or a commandment. On the contrary. We read from these believers in Macedonia that they begged Paul to favor them to give, in their desire to share in a service performed for other saints. Service is not only ‘serving with the Word’ but also by deed.

Paul can testify of them that they have given as much as they could, yes, that they have given more than they could actually give. They came to this because to them giving was a favor. Giving is a privilege and not a duty. Anyone who sees this in this way is not clinging to his money. The Lord Jesus Himself said that you become happier in giving than in receiving (Acts 20:35). What the Macedonians gave even exceeded Paul’s expectations.

What secret lies behind such generosity? This is the secret: “They first gave themselves to the Lord” (2 Corinthians 8:5). Whoever first gives himself to the Lord in complete surrender, has no difficulty in giving away his earthly possessions. Whoever is full of the Lord trusts Him that He can provide all that is necessary, for “the earth is the LORD’s, and all it contains” (Psalms 24:1).

Are these examples of willingness – from Israel and the Macedonians – not embarrassing for us? By God’s grace and by His Word and Spirit we may know so much more about Who He is than Israel; by His grace we have been brought into a much more intimate relationship with Him; we are as a church most intimately connected to the Lord Jesus; we may know that the church is the dwelling place of God in the Spirit – and what do we do with this knowledge? Does it lead us to make all our time, powers and resources available to the Lord Jesus?

The call to us is: “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not [in] vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Lord Jesus says: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38). Someone once said that too much has to be done by too few. That is more indicative of the current situation than the one we find here with Israel. It is to be hoped that today we will follow their example.

Then comes the statement that there is no need to give more. “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Giving is His nature. When we give, we act according to His nature. If He finds that enough has been given, He lets you know.

Voluntary gifts are also used for the construction of the temple. David praises the LORD that He has put this voluntariness in his heart and the heart of His people (1 Chronicles 29:14).

Exodus 38:31

The Colored Curtains

In the description of the tabernacle that the LORD gives Moses in Exodus 25, the ark comes first, for it is most important to God. When constructing the tabernacle the building comes first. This means that the first spiritual lesson that the believer must learn is what the church is. A believer only comes to the knowledge of the truth when he learns to see that he is part of the church of the living God as the house of God, with the Lord Jesus as its center.

The church is “the pillar and support of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). When that is recognized, insight will come in the other parts of the tabernacle that are given in the following chapters and represent all kinds of aspects of God’s truth.

The colored curtains are called “the tabernacle”. It is as if this is the actual dwelling place of God, although that applies to the whole building. The colored curtains represent in a special way the multiple facets of the glory of the Lord Jesus, each color representing a certain aspect of His glory. In Him dwelt on earth and still dwells today in heaven all the fullness of Deity bodily (Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9) both when on earth and now still. And through the church, “the dwelling of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22), “the manifold wisdom of God” is made known (Ephesians 3:10).

See also the comments on Exodus 26:1-6.