How can we contribute to God's work like in Exodus 35:16 today? Setting the Scene Exodus 35 records the moment when Israel rallied around the Lord’s command to furnish His dwelling place. Verse 16 names two specific pieces: “the altar of burnt offering with its bronze grating, its poles, and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand;” Those items represented sacrifice and cleansing—daily necessities for meeting with God. Each contribution, large or small, enabled worship to happen in the camp. Timeless Principles from Their Example • Every skill and material came under God’s ownership (Exodus 35:30-35). • Offerings flowed from “a willing heart” (Exodus 35:21, 29). • Workmanship was Spirit-empowered, not merely human talent (Exodus 35:31). • The goal was God’s presence in the midst of His people (Exodus 25:8; 29:45-46). Modern Expressions of Contribution • Financial gifts that advance gospel outreach, church planting, and benevolence (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Practical skills—carpentry, technology, music, administration—poured into local congregations and ministries (1 Peter 4:10). • Hospitality that opens homes for Bible studies and fellowship (Romans 12:13). • Creative arts—visual, written, digital—used to declare God’s glory (Psalm 96:3). • Intercessory prayer that undergirds frontline workers and global missions (Ephesians 6:18-20). • Personal mentorship and discipleship that shape living stones into a spiritual house (Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Peter 2:5). Guarding the Heart While Giving • Offerings remain an act of worship, never a means to earn favor (Hebrews 13:15-16). • Generosity reflects gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice, the true and final altar (Hebrews 10:10-14). • Joy anchors every gift (2 Corinthians 8:2). • Integrity governs resources entrusted to leaders (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). Partnering with God’s Presence Today • The altar points to the cross; believers respond by yielding their bodies as “a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). • The basin foreshadows the cleansing of Christ; believers pursue daily holiness through the Word (Ephesians 5:26). • The Tabernacle prefigures the gathered church, now indwelt by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16). Every contribution strengthens this living temple. Takeaway Commitments • Acknowledge God as owner of all resources. • Seek the Spirit’s direction for where and how to serve. • Give willingly, joyfully, and transparently. • Aim for contributions that usher people into deeper communion with the Lord. |
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