What is the meaning of Exodus 31:1? Then • The tiny word “Then” roots this moment in a real timeline. It follows God’s detailed blueprints for the tabernacle, priestly garments, and anointing oil (Exodus 25–30). • By saying “Then,” Scripture highlights that God’s revelation is progressive and orderly—He finishes one set of instructions before moving to the next (cf. Exodus 30:22–38; 40:16–17). • It reminds us that obedience unfolds step-by-step; Israel could trust that each directive built on what came before, just as Noah followed God’s plans “exactly” in Genesis 6:22. the LORD • “the LORD” (YHWH) emphasizes God’s covenant name, the One who promised deliverance in Exodus 3:14 and proved His faithfulness through the plagues and Red Sea crossing (Exodus 14:31). • He is the unchanging “I AM,” sovereign over history (Malachi 3:6) and intimately committed to His people (Exodus 6:7). • Because “the LORD” speaks, His words carry absolute authority; they are as dependable as His very character (Numbers 23:19). said • God is a communicating God. From “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3) to the prophets (Hebrews 1:1) and ultimately Christ (John 1:14), His speech reveals His will and secures His purposes (Isaiah 55:11). • When the LORD “said,” it wasn’t a suggestion but a command that demanded obedience, echoing earlier statements like Exodus 19:5, “if you indeed obey My voice.” • His spoken word equips His servants; here it will commission craftsmen, just as later He will empower Joshua (Joshua 1:1-9). to Moses • Moses is God’s chosen mediator (Exodus 3:10; Numbers 12:7-8). The phrase “to Moses” underscores that leadership in God’s economy flows from divine call, not human ambition. • Israel’s entire covenant structure depended on Moses faithfully conveying God’s words (Deuteronomy 34:10; Acts 7:37-38). • By addressing Moses personally, the LORD affirms relationship: the same God who met him at the burning bush keeps guiding him through every stage of ministry (Exodus 33:11). summary Exodus 31:1—“Then the LORD said to Moses,”—sets the stage for a fresh revelation. The timing (“Then”) links it to prior commands, the Speaker (“the LORD”) guarantees covenant authority, the action (“said”) reminds us of God’s powerful, reliable word, and the recipient (“to Moses”) highlights faithful, God-appointed leadership. Together, these four simple words assure us that every detail of God’s unfolding plan is purposeful, personal, and trustworthy. |
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