Meaning of Exodus 35:20

This verse marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the construction of the Tabernacle, describing the enthusiastic and unified response of the Israelite people to Moses' call for contributions. After Moses relays God's instructions for the sanctuary, the people, moved by divine impulse and a desire to obey, spontaneously bring forward their offerings. The phrase "withdrew from Moses' presence" signifies a departure from the immediate proximity of their leader, not a rejection of his authority or message, but rather a turning towards the task at hand with individual and communal purpose. It illustrates a moment where the collective will of the people is directed toward fulfilling God's will as communicated through Moses, demonstrating a profound readiness to participate in the sacred endeavor.

Context and Background

Exodus 35 occurs immediately after the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings have been given in chapters 25-31, and after the grievous sin of the golden calf and its subsequent judgment in chapters 32-34. Moses has descended from Mount Sinai with the stone tablets containing the Law, and the people have been purified and admonified. This chapter begins with Moses reiterating the commandment to observe the Sabbath, followed by his presentation of God's specific instructions for building the sanctuary and its vessels. The people's response in verse 20 is a direct reaction to Moses' call for voluntary offerings of precious metals, fabrics, and other materials necessary for the construction of the dwelling place for God among them.

Key Themes and Messages

• Willing Generosity: The primary theme is the enthusiastic and voluntary giving of the people. This is not an act of coercion but a response of love and obedience. The phrase "every one whose heart stirred him" (Exodus 35:21) emphasizes the internal motivation.
• Communal Participation: The entire Israelite community is involved. This highlights the corporate nature of worship and service to God. The building of the Tabernacle was a national project, not an individual one.
• Obedience to Divine Command: The people's actions are a direct response to Moses' relaying of God's instructions. Their willingness to give demonstrates their renewed commitment to obeying God's word.
• Preparation for God's Presence: The offerings are for the creation of a sacred space where God would dwell among His people. Their generosity is directly linked to facilitating God's presence and fellowship.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse serves as a powerful example of sacrificial giving motivated by love and obedience. It teaches that true worship involves more than just ritual; it requires the willing dedication of one's resources and talents to God's purposes. The people's departure from Moses' presence signifies their turning from receiving instructions to actively implementing them, a crucial step in spiritual maturity. For believers today, this passage calls for a similar spirit of generosity and active engagement in furthering God's kingdom, whether through financial contributions, the offering of time, or the use of spiritual gifts for the edification of the church.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The construction of the Tabernacle, initiated by the offerings described here, is a foundational event in the Old Testament. It represents God's desire to dwell with humanity, a theme that culminates in the Incarnation of Jesus Christ, the ultimate dwelling of God among us (John 1:14). The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, served as a foreshadowing of Christ and the New Covenant community, the Church. The principle of generous giving for God's purposes is a consistent thread throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament tithes and offerings to the New Testament exhortations for cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Analogies

Imagine a community deciding to build a beautiful park for everyone to enjoy. The town council announces the plan and asks for volunteers and donations. The people, excited about the prospect of a new recreational space, don't just stand around the council members asking for more details; instead, they go home, gather their tools, collect materials, and begin contributing their skills and resources. Their departure from the council meeting is not a sign of disrespect but a demonstration of their eagerness to do the work. Similarly, the Israelites, having heard God's plan through Moses, withdrew to gather their precious materials, ready to build the place where God would meet them.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 35:21: "And they came, every one whose heart stirred him, and every one whose spirit moved him, and brought the Lord’s offering for the work of the tabernacle of meeting, and for all its service, and for the holy garments." This verse immediately follows and elaborates on the nature of their enthusiastic giving.
• 2 Corinthians 9:7: "So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver." This New Testament verse echoes the spirit of willing and joyful giving exemplified by the Israelites.
• John 1:14: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." This verse points to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God dwelling among His people, a concept initiated by the Tabernacle.
• 1 Corinthians 3:16: "Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" This verse applies the concept of God's dwelling to the New Covenant believer, the Church.