What is the meaning of Exodus 35:4? Moses also told Moses, the covenant mediator, immediately shares what he has just received from God. The little word “also” links this moment to a steady pattern of faithful relay (Exodus 34:32: “Afterward all the Israelites came near, and he commanded them everything the LORD had told him on Mount Sinai.”). • Moses never edits divine revelation; he passes it on exactly as given (Numbers 12:7; Hebrews 3:5). • His example establishes that leaders serve by amplifying God’s voice, not their own (2 Timothy 2:2). the whole congregation of Israel God’s instructions are not a private memo to an elite few; they are broadcast to every man, woman, and child gathered (Exodus 35:1; Deuteronomy 31:12). • Holiness and service are communal responsibilities (Leviticus 19:2; Acts 2:44). • Hearing together fosters unity of purpose as they soon bring offerings for the tabernacle (Exodus 35:20-29). This is what the LORD has commanded: Moses underscores divine authorship—these words carry absolute authority because they originate with “the LORD,” Israel’s covenant-keeping God. • The upcoming instructions about voluntary offerings (vv. 5-9) are not optional suggestions; they are commanded, though participation will spring from willing hearts (2 Corinthians 9:7). • The phrase mirrors earlier calls to obedience (Exodus 25:1-2; 40:16) and anticipates Jesus’ own emphasis: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • By placing command before contribution, the text teaches that worship flows from God’s initiative, not human creativity (Psalm 100:3). summary Exodus 35:4 shows the faithful chain of revelation: God speaks, Moses conveys, the entire community listens. The verse prepares hearts for generous obedience by stressing that every instruction about building God’s dwelling comes straight from Him and is meant for all His people. |
    |