Exodus 35:10-36:38
Core Claim
The people of Israel are commanded by God to build the tabernacle according to His instructions.
Commentary
The construction of the tabernacle is a communal effort, with every skillful craftsman and woman contributing to its completion (Exodus 35:10).
The materials used for the tabernacle's construction include gold, silver, bronze, fine linen, and goats' hair (Exodus 35:23).
Bezalel and Oholiab are appointed as leaders in the construction project, filled with the Spirit of God to devise artistic designs and work in various crafts (Exodus 35:30-31).
The craftsmen work on the tabernacle's curtains, frames, bars, and other parts according to all that the LORD has commanded (Exodus 36:8).
The people bring freewill offerings for the sanctuary, which are sufficient for the work (Exodus 36:5).
Moses stops the people from bringing more contributions when they have enough material (Exodus 36:6).
Doctrinal Links
- The construction of the tabernacle is linked to the doctrine of covenant, as it represents a physical manifestation of God's presence among His people (Exodus 25:8).
- The use of materials such as gold and silver highlights the importance of atonement, as these materials are used in the priestly garments (Exodus 28:6-14).
- The emphasis on craftsmanship and design reflects the doctrine of the image of God, highlighting humanity's creative potential (Genesis 1:26-27).
Common Objections
<objection>
Response: The passage implies a human-centered approach to worship, with people contributing materials and skills. How does this align with God's sovereignty?
> This objection can be addressed by recognizing that the people's contributions are not in place of God's initiative but rather as a response to His command (Exodus 35:10).
Response:
<objection>
Response: The passage seems to emphasize human skill and craftsmanship over divine intervention. How does this relate to God's role in creation?
> This objection can be addressed by noting that the craftsmen are filled with the Spirit of God, indicating that their skills are a gift from Him (Exodus 35:30-31).
Response:
<objection>
Response: The passage implies a sense of human pride and accomplishment in building the tabernacle. How does this align with humility?
> This objection can be addressed by recognizing that the craftsmen's work is not for personal glory but rather as an act of worship to God (Exodus 36:5).
Response:
Tensions
The passage presents a tension between human initiative and divine sovereignty, highlighting the need for balance in understanding God's role in creation.
The emphasis on human skill and craftsmanship may lead to an overemphasis on human achievement rather than divine intervention.
Application Questions
- How can we balance human initiative with divine sovereignty in our own lives?
- What role should humility play in our understanding of God's work through us?
- How can we apply the principles of craftsmanship and design to our own spiritual growth and development?
Matthew 27:32-66
Core Claim
The crucifixion of Jesus is a pivotal event in Matthew 27:32-66, demonstrating his willingness to suffer for others while trusting in God's plan.
Commentary
The scene unfolds on Golgotha (Place of a Skull), where Jesus' crucifixion serves as a public display of his identity as the Son of God.
Simon from Cyrene is compelled to carry Jesus' cross, highlighting the weight and burden that Jesus bears for humanity's sins.
The offer of wine mixed with gall, which Jesus rejects, underscores his commitment to fulfilling God's will despite physical suffering.
The division of Jesus' garments among the soldiers by casting lots reflects the randomness and injustice of human actions in contrast to God's sovereign plan.
The charge against Jesus above his head, "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews," serves as a mocking declaration of his identity, yet also foreshadows his true kingship.
The crucifixion alongside two robbers emphasizes Jesus' willingness to suffer alongside those who reject him, demonstrating his love for humanity.
The people's mockery and derision of Jesus, saying he should save himself if he is the Son of God, reveals their misunderstanding of his mission and purpose.
Jesus' cry out in pain, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1), expresses his trust in God's plan despite feeling abandoned.
The tearing of the temple curtain from top to bottom signifies the completion of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant established through his blood.
The earthquake, rocks splitting, and tombs opening demonstrate the cosmic significance of Jesus' death and resurrection.
The centurion's recognition of Jesus as the Son of God highlights the faith that can be placed in him despite human limitations.
Doctrinal Links
- The crucifixion is a demonstration of Jesus' willingness to suffer for others, underscoring the doctrine of substitutionary atonement.
- The tearing of the temple curtain signifies the completion of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant established through his blood, linking to the doctrine of the new covenant.
- Jesus' identity as the Son of God is emphasized throughout the passage, connecting to the doctrine of the Trinity.
Common Objections
<objection> "If Jesus is truly the Son of God, why did he suffer so much?"
Response: This objection misunderstands the nature of Jesus' mission and purpose. As the Son of God, Jesus came to bear the weight of humanity's sins, demonstrating his love for us through suffering.
<objection> "Why does Jesus seem abandoned by God in his time of need?"
Response: Jesus' cry out in pain reflects his trust in God's plan despite feeling abandoned. This moment underscores the depth of Jesus' commitment to fulfilling God's will.
<objection> "The crucifixion is a cruel and senseless act; why would God allow such suffering?"
Response: The crucifixion serves as a public display of Jesus' identity as the Son of God, demonstrating his willingness to suffer for others while trusting in God's plan.
Tensions
The apparent abandonment by God, which Jesus experiences during his time on the cross.
The contrast between Jesus' promise to rebuild the temple and his inability to save himself.
The tension between Jesus' trust in God and the reality of his physical suffering.
Application Questions
- How can we trust in God's plan despite feeling abandoned or struggling with our own circumstances?
- What does it mean for us to take up our cross and follow Jesus, demonstrating our commitment to his mission and purpose?
- In what ways can we reflect on Jesus' willingness to suffer alongside those who reject him, and how can this inform our relationships with others?
Psalm 34:1-10
Core Claim
God's deliverance from fears is available to those who look to Him.
Commentary
This psalm is a personal testimony of David's experience with God's deliverance (v. 1).
The psalm begins and ends with an invitation to bless and praise God continually (vv. 1, 10).
David's behavior change before Abimelech led to his expulsion, but he learned that seeking God leads to deliverance (v. 1).
The humble are encouraged to hear and be glad about God's praise (v. 2).
Those who look to God are radiant and will not be ashamed (v. 5).
The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, delivering them (v. 7).
Young lions suffer want and hunger, but those seeking God lack no good thing (v. 10).
Doctrinal Links
- The crucifixion is a demonstration of Jesus' willingness to suffer for others, underscoring the doctrine of substitutionary atonement.
- The tearing of the temple curtain signifies the completion of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant established through his blood, linking to the doctrine of the new covenant.
- Jesus' identity as the Son of God is emphasized throughout the passage, connecting to the doctrine of the Trinity.
Common Objections
<objection> "How can we be sure that God will deliver us from our fears?"
Response: The psalm emphasizes the importance of looking to God for deliverance (vv. 4-5).
<objection> "Is this just a matter of personal experience, or is there a broader theological truth at stake?"
Response: The psalm highlights the universal availability of God's deliverance to those who fear Him (v. 9).
<objection> "What about the young lions that suffer want and hunger? Doesn't this contradict the idea that seeking God leads to abundance?"
Response: This contrast serves to emphasize the radical difference between those who seek God and those who do not, rather than suggesting a universal promise of material prosperity.
Tensions
The psalm's emphasis on deliverance from fears may be at odds with the experience of many believers who face ongoing struggles.
The idea that seeking God leads to abundance (v. 10) may seem inconsistent with the experiences of those who suffer poverty or hardship.
Application Questions
- How can we cultivate a sense of awe and reverence for God in our daily lives?
- What are some practical ways to "seek" God and experience His deliverance?
- In what ways can we encourage others to look to God for deliverance from their fears?
Proverbs 9:7-8
Core Claim
Correcting those who refuse correction can lead to harm, while correcting the receptive leads to positive change.
Commentary
The speaker warns against correcting those who refuse correction (Proverbs 9:7-8).
This warning is likely based on the observation that some people are not open to correction and will respond with hostility.
Correcting a scoffer can lead to abuse, as their pride and stubbornness make them resistant to change (Proverbs 9:7).
On the other hand, reproving a wicked person may result in injury, rather than leading to repentance or change (Proverbs 9:8).
The speaker's advice is not to reprove those who are unwilling to listen, but rather to focus on those who are receptive and open to correction.
A wise person is characterized by their willingness to receive correction and respond positively (Proverbs 9:8).
Doctrinal Links
- The doctrine of the image of God, which suggests that humans are created in God's image and should be treated with dignity and respect (Genesis 1:26-27).
- The doctrine of sin and rebellion, which suggests that humans are prone to resisting correction and change (Romans 3:23).
- The doctrine of redemption and restoration, which suggests that God desires to bring about positive change in the lives of his people through gentle and loving means (2 Corinthians 5:17-21).
Common Objections
But isn't it our duty as Christians to correct others when they are in error?"
Response: This objection assumes that correcting others is always a necessary or effective way to bring about change. However, the verse suggests that this approach can sometimes lead to harm rather than good.
What if someone is being obstinate and refuses correction? Shouldn't we still try to correct them?"
Response: The verse does not provide a clear answer to this question, but it may suggest that there are times when it is better to focus on building relationships and trust with others rather than trying to force correction upon them.
Isn't the goal of Christian living to be confrontational and challenge people's assumptions?"
Response: This objection assumes that confrontation and challenging others' assumptions are always necessary or effective ways to bring about spiritual growth. However, the verse suggests that this approach can sometimes lead to harm rather than good.
Tensions
The tension between correcting those who refuse correction and avoiding abuse.
The difficulty of distinguishing between a scoffer and a wise person.
The challenge of knowing when to reprove and when to focus on building relationships.
Application Questions
- How can we balance the need to correct others with the risk of causing harm or offense?
- What are some signs that someone is a scoffer rather than a wise person, and how should we respond accordingly?
- In what ways can we build relationships and trust with others in order to create an environment where correction and growth can occur?