What does Exodus 36:5 reveal about the importance of community in God's work? An Overflowing Offering – Exodus 36:5 “and told Moses, ‘The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work that the LORD has commanded us to do.’” Setting the Scene • God has given Moses exact, tangible instructions for building the tabernacle (Exodus 25–31). • Skilled artisans, Bezalel and Oholiab, are leading the work, but the whole nation is invited to contribute materials (Exodus 35:4-10). • By Exodus 36:5, the workers pause the project—not for lack but for surplus. Key Observation: Overflow from a United People • The phrase “the people are bringing more than enough” signals collective, voluntary participation rather than compulsory taxation. • Community response is immediate and heartfelt; no arm-twisting is recorded (Exodus 35:21, 29). • Workmen testify to the abundance, underscoring that God’s plan relies on willing hearts acting together. Lessons on Community Participation • Obedience is contagious—once leaders model generosity, others follow (cf. 1 Chronicles 29:6-9). • God’s assignments exceed the capacity of isolated individuals; He designs tasks big enough to require unified effort (Romans 12:4-5). • The Spirit stirs different gifts: some sew curtains, others melt gold, still others haul acacia wood. No role is redundant (Exodus 35:25-26, 34-35). • Surplus occurs when everyone brings “what his heart prompts,” proving that God’s provision often comes through corporate faithfulness, not private reserve (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). God’s Pattern Repeated Elsewhere • Acts 4:32-35—early believers share possessions; “there was not a needy person among them.” • 2 Corinthians 8:1-5—Macedonians give “beyond their ability,” demonstrating grace-powered generosity. • Nehemiah 3—families rebuild Jerusalem’s wall side by side, showing how joint labor accelerates restoration. Practical Takeaways for Today • View ministry needs as family projects. Ask, “How can we shoulder this together?” rather than, “Who’s the professional?” • Expect God-sized assignments to attract God-supplied resources through His people. • Cultivate a culture of openhanded giving; surplus begins with a single obedient heart but multiplies when the whole body responds. • Celebrate and communicate progress. The craftsmen’s report to Moses keeps the community informed and encouraged, preventing burnout and inspiring future generosity. Exodus 36:5 reminds us that when God’s people act in unity, their combined obedience turns scarcity into abundance, underscoring that community is not optional but essential in fulfilling the Lord’s commands. |
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