How can we contribute to God's work like in Exodus 35:14's lampstand service? The Lampstand’s Purpose Then and Now Exodus 35:14 records the call for “the lampstand for the light with its accessories and lamps and oil for the light”. In the tabernacle the lampstand: • Shone continually, symbolizing God’s presence (Exodus 27:20). • Required daily tending by the priests—trimmed wicks, replenished oil (Leviticus 24:2–4). • Pointed forward to God’s people as His light in the world (Matthew 5:14; Revelation 1:20). What the Israelites Gave: A Pattern for Us • Material resources – fine gold, sacred oil, costly workmanship. • Skilled craftsmanship – artisans shaped, hammered, polished (Exodus 35:30-35). • Ongoing supply – steady flow of pure olive oil kept the flame alive. Their gifts were voluntary and “everyone whose heart stirred him” (Exodus 35:21). Modern “Oil for the Light”: Practical Contributions • Finances: fund gospel proclamation, mercy ministries, church utilities—fuel that keeps ministries shining (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Time: regular service in music, teaching, hospitality, maintenance—comparable to trimming the wicks. • Talents: artistic design, technology, administration, counseling—shaping the lampstand’s beauty today (1 Peter 4:10). • Encouragement: spoken and written words that brighten weary hearts (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Outreach: sharing the gospel so the light reaches dark places (Philippians 2:15). • Personal holiness: obedient lives that make the message believable (Ephesians 5:8-10). From Obligation to Worship: Motives That Please God • Gratitude for redemption—“offer your bodies as living sacrifices” (Romans 12:1). • Love for Christ, the true Light (John 8:12). • Desire to exalt the Father—“that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). • Faith that every act of service matters (Galatians 6:9). God’s Promises to Faithful Light-Keepers • Ongoing supply: “My God will supply all your needs” (Philippians 4:19). • Shared radiance: “You will shine like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:15). • Eternal remembrance: “Your deeds follow you” (Revelation 14:13). By bringing our resources, skills, and hearts, we keep the lamp of God’s testimony burning brightly in our generation, just as the Israelites did in theirs. |
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