Exodus 36:3

They received from Moses all the contributions that the Israelites had brought to carry out the service of constructing the sanctuary. Meanwhile, the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning,

Study Bible

They received from Moses all the contributions
The skilled craftsmen, led by Bezalel and Oholiab, received the materials necessary for the construction of the Tabernacle. This highlights the importance of leadership and organization in the community. Moses, as the mediator between God and the Israelites, ensures that the contributions are properly distributed. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and the orderly administration of resources for God's work.

that the Israelites had brought
The Israelites' contributions were a response to God's command and a reflection of their willingness to participate in His divine plan. This act of giving is significant as it demonstrates their obedience and commitment to the covenant relationship with God. The collective effort underscores the communal aspect of worship and service in the Israelite community.

to carry out the service of constructing the sanctuary
The construction of the sanctuary, or Tabernacle, was a central task for the Israelites as it represented God's dwelling among them. The term "service" indicates that this was not merely a building project but a sacred duty. The sanctuary served as a physical manifestation of God's presence and a place for worship, sacrifice, and communion with God, foreshadowing the ultimate sanctuary found in Jesus Christ.

Meanwhile, the people continued to bring freewill offerings
The ongoing nature of the offerings shows the Israelites' generosity and dedication. Freewill offerings were voluntary, indicating a heartfelt response to God's grace. This continuous giving reflects a spirit of worship and gratitude, setting a precedent for New Testament teachings on cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:7).

morning after morning
The phrase "morning after morning" emphasizes the regularity and consistency of the Israelites' offerings. This daily act of giving can be seen as a form of worship and devotion, mirroring the daily sacrifices and prayers that would later be instituted in the Temple. It also points to the idea of daily renewal and commitment to God, a theme echoed in Lamentations 3:22-23, where God's mercies are described as new every morning.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He is overseeing the construction of the Tabernacle.

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to lead the work on the Tabernacle. They are responsible for the artistic design and construction.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who have been freed from slavery in Egypt. They are now in the wilderness, contributing to the construction of the Tabernacle through their offerings.

4. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary that God instructed the Israelites to build as a place of worship and His dwelling among them.

5. Wilderness of Sinai
The location where the Israelites are camped and where the Tabernacle is being constructed.

Teaching Points

The Heart of Giving
The Israelites' continuous offerings demonstrate a heart willing to give. Our giving should be motivated by love and gratitude, not obligation.

Daily Commitment
The phrase "morning after morning" suggests consistency and dedication. We are called to be consistent in our service and devotion to God.

Community Involvement
The construction of the Tabernacle was a community effort. In the body of Christ, everyone has a role to play, and our collective contributions build up the church.

God's Provision and Our Response
God provided the Israelites with resources, and they responded by giving back. Recognize God's provision in your life and consider how you can give back to His work.

Joy in Participation
The joy of the Israelites in giving reflects the joy we can find in participating in God's work. Engage in service with a joyful heart.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Israelites' willingness to give "morning after morning" teach us about the nature of true generosity?

2. How can we apply the principle of freewill offerings in our own lives today, both in the church and in our communities?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our giving and service are motivated by love and gratitude rather than obligation or recognition?

4. How does the concept of community involvement in the construction of the Tabernacle relate to the functioning of the modern church?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced joy in giving or serving. How can you cultivate that same joy in your current walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:1-9
This passage details God's command to Moses to collect offerings from the Israelites for the construction of the Tabernacle, highlighting the voluntary nature of these contributions.

2 Corinthians 9:7
This New Testament verse emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully, reflecting the spirit of the Israelites' freewill offerings.

1 Chronicles 29:9
Describes the joy and willingness of the people in giving for the construction of the Temple, paralleling the Israelites' contributions for the Tabernacle.