What can we learn about obedience from the Israelites' work in Exodus 36:15? Setting the Scene Exodus 36 zooms in on Bezalel, Oholiab, and the skilled craftsmen faithfully following God’s blueprint for the tabernacle. Verse 15 gives a seemingly small detail: “He made fifty loops on the edge of the outermost curtain of one set, and fifty loops on the edge of the curtain of the second set.” This meticulous description reveals big truths about obedience. What the Loops Teach Us • Obedience is specific – God had earlier commanded: “Make fifty loops on the one curtain and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set” (Exodus 26:10). The craftsmen match the instruction loop-for-loop, showing that obedience means carrying out God’s Word precisely, not approximately. • Obedience is wholehearted – The people bring freewill offerings “morning after morning” until Moses has to restrain them (Exodus 36:3–6). Their enthusiasm undergirds the craftsmen’s careful work; obedience springs from a willing heart, not mere duty (cf. 2 Corinthians 9:7). • Obedience is communal – “Every skilled person” joins in (Exodus 36:1). The loops only matter because they connect separate curtains into one tabernacle covering. Likewise, believers obey together, each contribution fitting into God’s larger plan (Ephesians 4:16). • Obedience is consistent – Fifty loops on one side, fifty on the other—no shortcuts, no extras. Faithfulness shows up in repeated, consistent acts (Luke 16:10). Small, unseen tasks matter to God. Why the Details Matter 1. They guard God’s glory – Hebrews 8:5 reminds us the tabernacle was “a copy and shadow of the heavenly things.” Accuracy reflects heaven’s pattern and honors the Designer. 2. They invite God’s presence – When the work is finished “just as the LORD had commanded,” “the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle” (Exodus 40:33–35). Obedience prepares a dwelling place for God among His people (John 14:23). 3. They secure God’s blessing – Moses inspects the work and “blessed them” (Exodus 39:42–43). Blessing follows obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1–2; James 1:25). Applying the Lesson Today • Pay attention to God’s “loops” in your life—those specific, perhaps repetitive instructions in Scripture (forgiveness, honesty, purity). They matter. • Offer your skills, however ordinary, to fit into God’s larger tapestry. • Cultivate a willing heart; obedience that flows from love delights the Father (John 14:15). • Trust that detailed faithfulness invites God’s presence and blessing, just as surely as fifty loops held the tabernacle curtains together. |
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