Chapter Summary

People instructed as to the tabernacle. The gifts of the people for the work.

Discussion Questions for Exodus, Chapter 35

1. Why might Moses have repeated instructions about Sabbath before the instructions on building the tabernacle? How might a Sabbath have shaped Israel’s understanding of the tabernacle? How might the instructions of six work days and a seventh day of rest be an allusion to the Garden of Eden? Why does that matter?
2. What do you notice about those who contribute supplies to the tabernacle? In what way was Israel’s relationship to God different than Pharaoh back in Egypt (Ex. 1:8-14) How might this change your perception of God?
3. The instructions of Ex. 35:4-9 are a repetition of Ex. 25:1-7. What events made it necessary to start afresh the building of the tabernacle?
4. What does verse 24 teach us about the people of God? Consider that the Israelites receive many of their possessions from Egypt during the Exodus. How might you use what God has given you to contribute to His glory? How might you work with other Christians to bring glory to God? Consider also Eph 4:16.
5. One theme of chapter 35 is the material contribution of Israel to the tabernacle. How might Christians apply this today to work today? At church? In finances? In business?
6. Another theme is that of the heart. What role does the heart play in this chapter? Why did God command those “of a willing heart” to contribute?
7. What is the heart according to an ancient Israelite? How does the heart shape a Christian’s relationship with God? How do you change your heart? Is it possible to change your heart?
8. Notice verse 34 says, “He also put in his heart to teach” (NASB). What does it mean that God “put it in his heart?” Does this conflict with man's free will? How free is man to choose? How does the style of the author's language challenge your perspective?
9. What should Christians do if they do not feel inclined to serve God? What does God think about feelings of the heart? How might feelings be used in a positive way?
10. How might God’s inclusion of women and their contributions be surprising to an ancient audience?

Key Words/Phrase

Gifts, v. 5.

Characters

God, Moses, Bezaleel, Aholiab.

Strong Verse(s)

21,29.