Exodus 35:4

Moses also told the whole congregation of Israel, "This is what the LORD has commanded:

Study Bible

Moses also told
The name "Moses" is derived from the Hebrew "Mosheh," which is believed to mean "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile. Moses is a central figure in the Old Testament, serving as a prophet, leader, and lawgiver. His role as a mediator between God and the Israelites is crucial, as he conveys divine instructions to the people. This phrase emphasizes Moses' leadership and his responsibility to communicate God's will to the Israelites, highlighting the importance of faithful transmission of divine commands.

the whole congregation of the Israelites
The term "congregation" comes from the Hebrew "edah," referring to an assembly or gathering. This phrase underscores the collective identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people. Historically, the Israelites were a nomadic people, and their unity was essential for survival and spiritual cohesion. The mention of "the whole congregation" signifies the inclusivity of God's message, intended for every member of the community, reinforcing the idea that divine instructions are meant for all, not just a select few.

This is what the LORD has commanded
The word "LORD" in the Hebrew text is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal and self-existent nature. The phrase "has commanded" comes from the Hebrew "tsavah," meaning to give orders or instructions. This highlights the authoritative nature of God's words, which are not mere suggestions but divine mandates. The use of "commanded" reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where obedience to God's commands is a central aspect of their faith and identity. This phrase serves as a reminder of the divine authority behind the instructions Moses is about to deliver, calling the Israelites to attentive and reverent obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egyptian bondage and to guide them through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses acts as the mediator between God and the Israelites, conveying God's commands.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They are gathered as a congregation to receive instructions from God through Moses.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness. He is the one giving the command through Moses.

4. The Command
This refers to the instructions given by God to the Israelites, which in the context of Exodus 35, involves the collection of materials for the construction of the Tabernacle.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary that the Israelites were to construct as a place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses exemplifies obedience by faithfully communicating God's instructions to the Israelites. As believers, we are called to listen and respond to God's Word with obedience.

Community and Worship
The gathering of the whole congregation emphasizes the communal aspect of worship. Our faith is not just individual but is lived out in community with others.

Generosity in Giving
The command involves the collection of offerings for the Tabernacle. This teaches us the importance of giving generously and willingly to support the work of God.

Leadership and Responsibility
Moses' role as a leader highlights the responsibility of those in leadership to guide others according to God's will. Leaders in the church today are called to shepherd their congregations with integrity and faithfulness.

God's Presence Among His People
The construction of the Tabernacle signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. This foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with us through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' role as a mediator between God and the Israelites in Exodus 35:4 reflect the role of Jesus as our mediator today?

2. In what ways can we, as a church community, ensure that our worship is both communal and centered on God's commands?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt called to give generously. How does the example of the Israelites' offerings for the Tabernacle inspire you to give?

4. What qualities of leadership can we learn from Moses in this passage, and how can they be applied in our own roles within the church or community?

5. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle relate to the New Testament understanding of God's presence with us through the Holy Spirit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, which Moses is now relaying to the people in Exodus 35.

2 Corinthians 9:7
This New Testament verse speaks about giving willingly and cheerfully, which connects to the spirit in which the Israelites were to bring their offerings for the Tabernacle.

Hebrews 3:1-6
This passage compares Moses to Jesus, highlighting Moses' faithfulness in God's house, which is relevant as Moses faithfully conveys God's commands for the Tabernacle.