◄ Exodus 31 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Moses Receives the Tablets This chapter serves as a testament to the way God equips and empowers His people to fulfill His divine purposes. As we navigate our lives, may we remember to uphold and honor the sacred, especially the spiritual rest represented by the Sabbath, and allow God's hand to guide our own work. The sacred objects crafted by Bezalel and Oholiab remind us that our lives, too, are shaped and designed by the divine craftsman, our Creator. Appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab (Verses 1-5) The Lord appoints Bezalel and Oholiab as chief craftsmen for the construction of the sacred objects, empowering them with divine skill, ability, and knowledge. Divine Commandments for Craftsmanship (Verses 6-11) They are commanded to create the Tent of Meeting, the ark of the Testimony, the mercy seat, and other furnishings, as well as the holy garments and the anointing oil and incense. The Importance of the Sabbath (Verses 12-17) The Lord emphasizes the importance of keeping the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant, a day of complete rest, and warns of the consequences of its violation. Receipt of the Tablets of the Testimony (Verse 18) The chapter concludes with the Lord giving Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, inscribed by the finger of God, after their conversation on Mount Sinai. This chapter recounts the divine appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab, filled with the Spirit of God, to craft the sacred objects for the Tent of Meeting. The importance of observing the Sabbath as a holy day is strongly emphasized, signifying the covenant between the Lord and the Israelites. It concludes with Moses receiving the two tablets of the Testimony on Mount Sinai. Teaching Points Divine Selection and Empowerment See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship (Exodus 31:2-3). God specifically chooses and equips individuals for His work. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Spirit of God is the source of wisdom, understanding, and skill. This empowerment is not just for spiritual tasks but also for practical, artistic work. Collaboration in God’s Work Oholiab is appointed to assist Bezalel, showing the importance of teamwork and collaboration in fulfilling God’s plans (Exodus 31:6). The Importance of Obedience God provides detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following His commands precisely (Exodus 31:7-11). The Sabbath as a Sign The chapter concludes with a reminder of the Sabbath, a covenant sign between God and Israel, underscoring the importance of rest and worship (Exodus 31:13-17). Practical Applications Recognize and Use Your God-Given Talents Identify the skills and talents God has given you and seek ways to use them for His glory. Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance Pray for the Holy Spirit to fill you with wisdom and understanding in your daily tasks and responsibilities. Value Teamwork Embrace collaboration with others in your community and church, recognizing that God often works through collective efforts. Prioritize Obedience Strive to follow God’s instructions in your life, understanding that His ways are perfect and lead to fulfillment. Honor the Sabbath Set aside time for rest and worship, acknowledging the importance of the Sabbath as a time to reconnect with God. People 1. Bezalel Bezalel is described as the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. He is chosen by God and filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship. His name in Hebrew, בְּצַלְאֵל (Betsal'el), means "in the shadow of God," indicating his divine inspiration and protection in his work. 2. Oholiab Oholiab is the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. He is appointed as an assistant to Bezalel. His name in Hebrew, אָהֳלִיאָב ('Oholi'av), means "father's tent," which may symbolize his role in constructing the Tabernacle, the dwelling place of God among His people. 3. Moses While not directly mentioned in the specific verses of Exodus 31, Moses is the recipient of God's instructions regarding Bezalel and Oholiab. He is the leader of the Israelites and the mediator between God and His people. Moses' name in Hebrew, מֹשֶׁה (Mosheh), is traditionally understood to mean "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile River as a baby. Places Exodus 31 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. Instead, it focuses on instructions given by God to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, the appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab as craftsmen, and the observance of the Sabbath. Since there are no specific places mentioned in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. If you have any other questions or need further information on a different topic, feel free to ask! Events 1. Appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab God speaks to Moses, appointing Bezalel, son of Uri, from the tribe of Judah, and Oholiab, son of Ahisamach, from the tribe of Dan, to lead the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The Lord says, "See, I have called by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah" (Exodus 31:2). The Hebrew root for "called" (קָרָא, qara) signifies a divine selection or appointment. 2. Filling with the Spirit of God God fills Bezalel with the Spirit of God, granting him wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship. The scripture states, "And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship" (Exodus 31:3). The Hebrew word for "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokmah) indicates skill and expertise. 3. Craftsmanship and Artistic Design Bezalel is endowed with skills for artistic design, working with gold, silver, and bronze, as well as cutting stones and carving wood. The passage notes, "to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft" (Exodus 31:4-5). 4. Assistance of Oholiab Oholiab is appointed to assist Bezalel, and other skilled craftsmen are also given wisdom to carry out the work. The text mentions, "Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to assist him" (Exodus 31:6). 5. Instructions for the Sabbath God reiterates the importance of observing the Sabbath as a sign between Him and the Israelites. He commands, "You must observe My Sabbaths, for it is a sign between Me and you for the generations to come, so that you may know that I am the LORD who sanctifies you" (Exodus 31:13). The Hebrew root for "sanctifies" (קָדַשׁ, qadash) means to set apart as holy. 6. Sabbath as a Perpetual Covenant The Sabbath is established as a perpetual covenant, emphasizing its significance and the consequence of death for those who desecrate it. The scripture states, "It is a sign forever between Me and the Israelites; for in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, but on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed" (Exodus 31:17). 7. Giving of the Tablets of the Testimony God gives Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, inscribed by the finger of God. The passage concludes, "When the LORD had finished speaking with Moses on Mount Sinai, He gave him the two tablets of the Testimony, stone tablets inscribed by the finger of God" (Exodus 31:18). The Hebrew word for "inscribed" (כָּתַב, kathab) indicates writing or engraving. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 Discusses the variety of spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit for the common good. Colossians 3:23-24 Encourages believers to work heartily as for the Lord, not for men. Genesis 2:2-3 The origin of the Sabbath, where God rested on the seventh day after creation. Prayer Points Pray for recognition and appreciation of the unique gifts God has given you. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s wisdom and guidance in using your talents effectively. Pray for unity and effective collaboration within your church and community. Seek God’s help in maintaining obedience to His Word and commands. Thank God for the gift of rest and the opportunity to worship Him, especially on the Sabbath. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the selection of Bezalel and Oholiab illustrate about divine empowerment and calling? 2. How does the divine infusion of "skill, ability, and knowledge" reflect in the work we do every day? 3. Why do you think the Lord commanded such detailed construction of the Tent of Meeting and its furnishings? 4. How can we apply the principle of the Sabbath as a holy day in our modern, busy lives? 5. In what ways can we honor and uphold the sanctity of the Sabbath in our own practices? 6. What does the Sabbath being a "sign of the covenant" signify about our relationship with God? 7. How can we balance the need for work and rest, as outlined in the commandment to observe the Sabbath? 8. Why is the violation of the Sabbath seen as such a grave offense in this passage? 9. What role does the Sabbath play in our understanding of God as our Creator? 10. What is the significance of the two tablets of the Testimony being inscribed by the finger of God? 11. How does the crafting of the sacred objects resonate with our creation by God? 12. How does the notion of 'sanctity' influence our relationship with God and others? 13. How do the concepts of obedience and covenant presented in this passage apply to your life today? 14. What lessons on the intersection of craftsmanship and spirituality can we learn from this passage? 15. How do you perceive the link between creative expression and divine empowerment in this context? 16. How can the commandments on observing the Sabbath influence our understanding of spiritual rest? 17. What can we learn about respect and reverence for God's law from the serious penalties for breaking the Sabbath? 18. In what ways can the divine appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab inspire us in our own vocational paths? 19. How does the giving of the tablets of the Testimony symbolize God's communication and covenant with His people? 20. How might we apply the detailed artistry and skill in the creation of the sacred objects to the crafting of our own lives as 'works of art' dedicated to God? Topics 1. Bezalel and Oholiab Called for the Tabernacle Work In Exodus 31, God appoints Bezalel and Oholiab to lead the construction of the Tabernacle. Bezalel is filled with the Spirit of God, granting him wisdom, understanding, and skill in craftsmanship (Exodus 31:2-5). The Hebrew word for "filled" (מָלֵא, male') indicates a complete and divine endowment of abilities necessary for the sacred work. 2. The Gift of Skilled Artisans God also provides other skilled artisans to assist in the work, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration in fulfilling divine tasks (Exodus 31:6). The Hebrew term for "skill" (חָכְמָה, chokmah) underscores the wisdom and expertise required for the intricate work of the Tabernacle. 3. Instructions for the Tabernacle and Its Furnishings The chapter reiterates the specific instructions for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's detailed plans (Exodus 31:7-11). This reflects the Hebrew concept of "pattern" (תַּבְנִית, tabnith), which signifies a divinely ordained blueprint. 4. The Sabbath as a Sign God commands the observance of the Sabbath as a perpetual covenant and a sign between Him and the Israelites (Exodus 31:12-17). The Hebrew word for "sign" (אוֹת, 'oth) indicates a visible and enduring symbol of the relationship between God and His people. 5. The Giving of the Two Tablets of Testimony The chapter concludes with God giving Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, inscribed by the finger of God (Exodus 31:18). The Hebrew term for "Testimony" (עֵדוּת, 'eduth) refers to the covenantal laws that serve as a witness to the divine-human relationship. Themes 1. Divine Appointment and Empowerment for Craftsmanship In Exodus 31:1-6, God appoints Bezalel and Oholiab, filling them with the Spirit of God to carry out the work of crafting the Tabernacle. This theme highlights the divine origin of skills and talents, emphasizing that God equips individuals for specific purposes. The Hebrew word for "filled" (מָלֵא, male) indicates a complete endowment of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. 2. The Importance of Sabbath Observance Verses 12-17 stress the significance of the Sabbath as a covenant sign between God and Israel. The Sabbath is described as a day of rest, holy to the Lord, and a perpetual covenant. The Hebrew term for "rest" (שָׁבַת, shavat) underscores cessation from work, reflecting God's rest after creation. 3. Covenant Relationship Between God and Israel The Sabbath is presented as a sign of the covenant, reinforcing the special relationship between God and His people. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit), which signifies a binding agreement and mutual commitment. 4. Holiness and Consecration The chapter emphasizes the holiness of the Sabbath and the consecration of the craftsmen. The Hebrew word for "holy" (קָדוֹשׁ, kadosh) conveys the idea of being set apart for a sacred purpose, reflecting God's own holiness. 5. Obedience to Divine Commands The instructions given to Moses, including the observance of the Sabbath and the construction of the Tabernacle, underscore the importance of obedience to God's commands. The Hebrew root for "command" (צָוָה, tzavah) implies a directive that requires faithful adherence. 6. The Role of the Law in Community Identity The giving of the tablets of the Testimony, inscribed by the finger of God (verse 18), highlights the centrality of the Law in shaping the identity and practices of the Israelite community. The Hebrew term for "Testimony" (עֵדוּת, edut) suggests a witness or evidence of God's covenant and expectations. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions