Exodus 36:3

They received from Moses all the contributions that the Israelites had brought to carry out the service of constructing the sanctuary. Meanwhile, the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning,

Study Bible

And the people
This phrase refers to the Israelites, God's chosen people, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עַם" (am), which often denotes a community bound by shared identity and covenant with God. This highlights the collective responsibility and unity among the Israelites in their devotion and obedience to God's commands.

continued to bring
The Hebrew root for "continued" is "בּוֹא" (bo), meaning to come or to go. This implies a persistent and ongoing action, reflecting the Israelites' dedication and eagerness to contribute to the construction of the Tabernacle. Their continuous action signifies a heart transformed by gratitude and reverence for God, demonstrating their commitment to His service.

freewill offerings
The term "freewill offerings" comes from the Hebrew "נְדָבָה" (nedavah), which refers to voluntary gifts given out of one's own volition, not out of obligation. This highlights the generosity and willingness of the Israelites to give beyond what was required. It underscores the principle that true worship and service to God stem from a willing heart, not compulsion.

morning after morning
This phrase emphasizes the regularity and consistency of the Israelites' offerings. The repetition of "morning" in Hebrew, "בֹּקֶר" (boqer), suggests a disciplined and habitual practice of giving. It reflects the daily renewal of commitment to God and His work, symbolizing the freshness of their devotion and the importance of starting each day with acts of worship and generosity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He is overseeing the construction of the Tabernacle.

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to lead the work on the Tabernacle. They are responsible for the artistic design and construction.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who have been freed from slavery in Egypt. They are now in the wilderness, contributing to the construction of the Tabernacle through their offerings.

4. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary that God instructed the Israelites to build as a place of worship and His dwelling among them.

5. Wilderness of Sinai
The location where the Israelites are camped and where the Tabernacle is being constructed.

Teaching Points

The Heart of Giving
The Israelites' continuous offerings demonstrate a heart willing to give. Our giving should be motivated by love and gratitude, not obligation.

Daily Commitment
The phrase "morning after morning" suggests consistency and dedication. We are called to be consistent in our service and devotion to God.

Community Involvement
The construction of the Tabernacle was a community effort. In the body of Christ, everyone has a role to play, and our collective contributions build up the church.

God's Provision and Our Response
God provided the Israelites with resources, and they responded by giving back. Recognize God's provision in your life and consider how you can give back to His work.

Joy in Participation
The joy of the Israelites in giving reflects the joy we can find in participating in God's work. Engage in service with a joyful heart.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Israelites' willingness to give "morning after morning" teach us about the nature of true generosity?

2. How can we apply the principle of freewill offerings in our own lives today, both in the church and in our communities?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our giving and service are motivated by love and gratitude rather than obligation or recognition?

4. How does the concept of community involvement in the construction of the Tabernacle relate to the functioning of the modern church?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced joy in giving or serving. How can you cultivate that same joy in your current walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:1-9
This passage details God's command to Moses to collect offerings from the Israelites for the construction of the Tabernacle, highlighting the voluntary nature of these contributions.

2 Corinthians 9:7
This New Testament verse emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully, reflecting the spirit of the Israelites' freewill offerings.

1 Chronicles 29:9
Describes the joy and willingness of the people in giving for the construction of the Temple, paralleling the Israelites' contributions for the Tabernacle.