Exodus 31-40

Creating a Dwelling for God: The Glory of His Presence

Bible Passage: Exodus 31, Exodus 32, Exodus 33, Exodus 34, Exodus 35, Exodus 36, Exodus 37, Exodus 38, Exodus 39, Exodus 40

Summary: The passages from Exodus chapters 31 to 40 detail God's instructions for creating the tabernacle and His requirements for worship, emphasizing His desire to dwell among His people and the consequences of disobedience and faithfulness.

Application: This sermon can encourage Christians to consider what it means to invite God's presence into their personal lives and communities, recognizing that God desires a relationship with us. It offers a chance to reflect on our own practices of worship and obedience, urging believers to make room for God in their daily lives.

Teaching: The teaching revolves around understanding the significance of the tabernacle as a physical representation of God's presence, highlighting the meticulous nature of God's instructions and the importance of obedience in our worship and relationship with Him.

How this passage could point to Christ: In tracing the theme of God's presence, we see Christ as the ultimate tabernacle (John 1:14). Jesus embodies God's presence, being both God and man, fulfilling the promise of God dwelling among His people.

Big Idea: God's detailed instructions for the tabernacle reflect His desire for intimate fellowship with His people and call us to pursue holiness and obedience in our worship.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider using Logos to explore the historical context of the tabernacle's construction and its significance in Israelite worship. Look into the various materials and symbolism used in the tabernacle and how they relate to Christ's work. You may also want to examine critical texts concerning Israel's disobedience and how that affected their relationship with God, which could provide depth to your application points.

1. Crafted for His Glory

Exodus 31:1-11

Perhaps you could explore how God gave precise instructions for the construction of the tabernacle, highlighting the skilled artisans filled with the Spirit to accomplish His work. This reflects God’s desire for beauty, order, and worship in our lives, moving us towards a life that glorifies Him through our talents and gifts.

2. Confronting Our Idols

Exodus 32:1-14

You could illustrate Israel's failure to wait for God's timing, leading to idol worship with the golden calf. This serves as a reminder of our own tendencies to stray when impatient. Reflecting on Christ as the true mediator, we find hope in seeking forgiveness and renewing our trust in God's plan.

3. Craving Divine Presence

Exodus 33:7-23

Perhaps consider how Moses' plea for God’s presence marks the centrality of God in the Israelites' journey. Moses' intimate relationship with God inspires us to seek closeness with Christ, the living tabernacle, ensuring our lives are centered on His presence in every moment.

4. Covenant and Transformation

Exodus 34:10-35

Maybe focus on God’s renewal of the covenant and Moses' radiant face, symbolizing that transformation results from encountering God. This illustrates Christ’s transformative power in our lives, leading us to reflect His glory as we walk in obedience and proclaim His goodness.

5. Contributions of the Heart

Exodus 35:4-29

You could examine the voluntary contributions for the tabernacle, showing the hearts of the people stirred to give. This emphasizes active participation in God’s work, reminding us of the joy and necessity of generosity in our mission to extend Christ’s kingdom.

6. Commitment to Worship

Exodus 36:8-38

Maybe explore the dedicated work of constructing the tabernacle as a reflection of steadfast commitment and reverence for God’s instructions. This models perseverance and precision in our worship, leading us to a life that continuously honors God in all we do.

7. Completion and Presence

Exodus 37-40

Perhaps conclude by showcasing the completion of the tabernacle and God’s presence filling it. This culmination points to the fulfillment found in Christ, where God’s glory dwells among us, encouraging us to be a community where His presence is welcomed and revered.