Exodus 29:38—31:18: God's Revelation in People and Things
"BACK TO THE drawing board" is often said after a failed experiment or project. Sometimes Christians behave as though the worship of God is a do-it-yourself project. Some lack a sense of responding to God himself. Church leaders experiment and fiddle with changes in the order of worship. But God is a God of economy and order. No wasted, botched plans or experiments with him. Moses and the Israelites received a specific plan, precise in every detail and dimension. Each part of the plan said something about God. Careful study of the plan pays off in new insights about God and about worship.
Warming Up to God
As you sit before the Bible allow yourself to sit spiritually before the Lord. Rest silently for a few minutes and allow yourself to become relaxed and focused before you begin your study.
Read Exodus 29:38—31:18. »
Discovering the Word
- How does God summarize the purposes of worship (29:42-46)?
- Incense speaks of the prayers of God's people (Rev 5:8). Why would Israel need such a reminder (30:1-10)?
- What aspect of worship would be inspired by paying atonement money (30:11-16)?
- Why do you think it was important that rich and poor gave the same small amount (30:15)?
- The shepherds of Israel had neither artistic skills nor craftsmanship. What does God's plan to remedy this reveal about his concern for beauty (31:1-11)?
- Exodus 31:12-18 is the third instruction and warning regarding the Sabbath (see 20:8-11; 23:10-13). What new emphasis is added here regarding the purpose of the Sabbath and the punishment of those who disregard it?
Applying the Word
- The Bible speaks of the cleansing effect of Scripture (Ps 119:9; Jn 15:3). Why is it important to be washed daily by God's Word?
- From these forty days' instructions (Ex 25—31) from God, what major impressions do you receive about him and about worshiping him?
Responding in Prayer
Spend time worshiping the Lord. Choose your own way to express yourself and ascribe worth to God.
For Further Study
Worship & Celebration (Spiritual Disciplines Bible Studies) by Jan Johnson