How does Exodus 36:4 connect with New Testament teachings on generosity? Setting the scene in Exodus 36:4 “So all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left the work they were doing” (Exodus 36:4). • The artisans physically stop because the people’s contributions are overflowing. • Verses 3–5 show Israel giving so freely that Moses must call a halt. • From the start, generosity is portrayed not as a duty but as a Spirit-prompted overflow (cf. Exodus 35:21). Overflowing hearts and open hands • God’s people give beyond the minimum—so much that the workmen cannot keep up. • The giving is voluntary (“freewill offerings,” 36:3), cheerful, and community-wide. • Generosity here is tied directly to worship; supplying the tabernacle equals honoring the LORD. New Testament echoes of the Exodus generosity 1. Cheerful, willing giving • “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Like Israel, the Corinthian believers are urged to give freely, not by pressure. 2. Giving that surpasses need • “They gave according to their ability and even beyond it, of their own accord” (2 Corinthians 8:3). • The Macedonian churches, though poor, mirror Israel’s “more than enough” spirit (Exodus 36:5). 3. Community provision • “There was not a needy one among them, for those who owned lands or houses sold them… and it was distributed to each as anyone had need” (Acts 4:34-35). • Early Christians echo the Exodus pattern: abundance channeled into God’s work and people’s welfare. 4. Promised return and blessing • “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap” (Luke 6:38). • Jesus affirms that overflow leads to further blessing—just as Israel’s overflow built God’s dwelling. 5. Sacrificial generosity praised • “She out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on” (Mark 12:44). • The widow’s heart reflects the Exodus donors: wholehearted trust that God will supply. 6. Doing good and sharing • “Do not neglect to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16). • NT writers connect generosity with sacrificial worship, the very theme of the tabernacle narrative. Bringing it home today • God-centered projects still thrive when God’s people give gladly. • The pattern is abundance → stewardship → worship, not guilt-driven obligation. • New-covenant believers are invited to the same joyful partnership: supplying the work of ministry, relieving need, and displaying the generous heart of the Savior who “though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9). |
    |