Exodus 34 – Renewal of the Covenant
-
Moses and the Second Tablets: God commands Moses to hew two new stone tables like the first ones broken (Ex. 34:1). Moses ascends Mount Sinai again, and the Lord descends in a cloud, proclaiming His name and attributes—merciful, gracious, longsuffering, abundant in goodness and truth (vv. 5–7).
-
Covenant Renewal: The Lord renews His covenant with Israel, warning against idolatry, intermarriage with heathen nations, and commands regarding feasts and firstfruits (vv. 10–28).
-
Moses’ Radiant Face: After speaking with God, Moses’ face shines with God’s glory, so much that he veils his face when speaking with the people (vv. 29–35).
Exodus 35 – Preparation for the Tabernacle
-
Sabbath Reminder: Moses reaffirms the command to keep the Sabbath holy, even while preparing for the Tabernacle (Ex. 35:1–3).
-
Offerings for the Tabernacle: The people are invited to bring freewill offerings—gold, silver, brass, fine linen, skins, wood, oil, spices, and precious stones (vv. 4–29).
-
Skilled Craftsmen: God appoints Bezaleel and Aholiab, filling them with His Spirit for wisdom, knowledge, and skill in building the Tabernacle and its furnishings (vv. 30–35).
Key Themes:
-
God’s mercy and covenant faithfulness even after Israel’s sin with the golden calf.
-
The importance of obedience and separation from idolatry.
-
Sabbath rest as a continuing reminder of God’s holiness.
-
Willing service and giving—the Tabernacle was built through the freewill offerings of God’s people.
-
God equips His people with spiritual gifts for service.