February 14, 2021

Sermon notes                                                                 February 14, 2020

AM Service

Scripture: Exodus 35:4-36:2

This part of Exodus provides the start of construction of the Tabernacle, and the instruments of worship for God.  Earlier, in chapters 25-30, God gave Moses the instructions for these items, and they are very specific.  The detail in the chapters can be tedious to read.  The instructions conclude, and then Moses returns to the people and finds them worshipping their false, man-made calf god in chapter 32.  In chapters 32-34, we read about the consequences of their sin and the reconciliation of the relationship between God and the Israelites.  Of utmost importance is the fact their sin caused a separation between God and the people.  Look at Exodus 33:1-11.  Here, we find God withdrawing.  The presence of God is not in the camp but outside in a different tent. 

Chapters 35-40 cover the building of the worship items as instructed previously in chapters 25-30.  If you read the chapters, you can find yourself almost rereading exact wording in the building record as in the instructions.  Why do you think it was needed to provide so much specific detail in both the instructions and the building record?  What is the application for us today?  In order to understand the importance of these chapters and to make an application in our own lives today, we need to see the results of the work. 

Let’s now read Exodus 39:32-34.  These verses tell us the work that was instructed in chapters 25-30 is indeed complete, and it is completed exactly per the instructions from God. 

Now, let’s look to chapter 40:33-38 for the ultimate results.  In verse 33, Moses completes the assembly of all the items the Israelites made.  Then verse 34 tells us something amazing!  The glory of the Lord came down into the tabernacle.  There again is God’s presence with the Israelites. At first, God went before the people as the cloud or pillar of fire.  Then, their sin came between them and God, and God was outside the tent.  Now, upon their repentance and their word for word obedience to God’s instructions, the relationship is restored.  Now, God is dwelling among the Israelite camp in the tabernacle. 

Let me ask you, do you think God would have filled the tabernacle if they did not follow His instructions?  Maybe they could have used less gold and made things with a cheaper material.  Maybe they could have used a different color scheme.  Perhaps they could have changed some dimensions to better suit them.  Had they done anything but what God instructed, it would have been disobedience, which is sin.  God would not have dwelled with them, and they would not have experienced His blessing.  It is important that we obey God’s instructions.  Too often, we prefer to do things our way and expect God to bless us.  If you want to feel God’s presence in your life, abide in God through love and obedience. 

God bless,

Pastor Charlie