Exodus 35:30–36:7 “Zealous, Though Late”

Exodus 35:30-36:7

Suggested Praise Songs:

• Here I Am To Worship
• Lord, I Give You My Heart
• Build My Life

Resources for Family Worship (with Children):

• The Gifts of God – Lesson for Kids
• Fishers of Men – Song for Kids
• Give Thanks – Song for Kids
• I Have Decided To Follow Jesus – Song for Kids
• Discussion Questions for Children & Youth arelocated in the section after Explanation, Meditation, and Prayer (at the end of this email/blog).

Explanation:

Once all the materials for constructing the Tabernacle were gathered, Moses told the people that God had appointed Bezalel as the chief architect for the project (v. 30). God would pour His Spirit on him and grant him “wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all kinds of skills” (v. 31). Bezalel would design and plan the Tabernacle according to the inspiration God gave him, carrying out all of God’s commands (vv. 32–33). Moses also announced that God had appointed Oholiab as Bezalel’s assistant (v. 34). All skilled workers would make everything needed under the direction of Bezalel and Oholiab (v. 35; 36:1).

After making these announcements, Moses summoned the skilled workers who had volunteered to build the Tabernacle (v. 2) and handed over the materials donated by the people (v. 3). Once the work began, some people continued to bring offerings, even though the initial collection had already finished. Their late contributions started delaying the construction process, so the craftsmen came to Moses and asked him to restrain the people (vv. 4–5). Moses relayed their request to the people, and they stopped bringing gifts. Even so, the materials were more than enough (v. 7).

Meditation:

After informing the people of the materials needed for constructing the Tabernacle, Moses instructed them to give offerings only if they were willing. This was in accordance with God’s command. Since the Tabernacle would be the place where God would meet with His people through the priests, God directed that it be built only with terumah—offerings given joyfully and freely.

Upon hearing Moses’ words, many people willingly and joyfully offered their possessions. However, not everyone joined in this procession of giving. Some refrained because of greed, while others were lukewarm due to skepticism about the Tabernacle. Still others gave out of obligation or concern for appearances, but with a stingy heart.

When the skilled craftsmen gathered and the Tabernacle construction began, those who had been lukewarm or passive likely began to feel uneasy. They may have worried that if they had no part or contribution in the Tabernacle being built, they wouldn’t have the dignity to enter it later—for worship or for making sacrifices. That anxiety stirred them into action, and they became zealous, albeit late. They wanted to be involved in the work God was doing—somehow, in any way.

But it was too late. The materials for the Tabernacle were already more than sufficient. Those who brought offerings at that late stage only disrupted the work. When Moses realized this, he commanded the people to stop bringing more. Those latecomers likely felt ashamed when the Tabernacle was completed and dedicated. Though God still allowed them to come and offer sacrifices there, their consciences probably never fully recovered from the guilt and shame.

Prayer:

Lord, cover our love for You so that it may not grow cold. Keep our passion for the work You are doing from fading. May our time, our possessions, and our very selves be offered to You as terumah. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Children & Youth:

Key Point: God wants us to give joyfully and willingly, not because we have to, but because we love Him. When we delay or hesitate to give our time or heart to God, we may miss the chance to be part of His amazing work.

• For Preschool-Elementary
  • Why do you think God wanted people to give only if they really wanted to?
  • How would you feel if your friends helped build something wonderful, but you didn’t get to join?
  • What is something small (like your time, a toy, or a kind word) you could give to God or others today?
    
• For Youth
  • Have you ever waited too long to join in something meaningful, like a project or helping others? How did it feel?
  • Why do you think some people were late to give to the Tabernacle? Can we relate to them today?
  • What is one way you can offer your gifts, talents, or time to God this week—not out of pressure, but out of love?