Exodus 35:10-36:38
Big Idea
The construction of the tabernacle is a community effort, where every skillful craftsman and woman contributes to make all that the LORD has commanded.
Commentary
The passage describes the people's enthusiasm for contributing to the construction of the sanctuary, bringing materials such as gold, silver, bronze, and fine linen.
Moses commands the people to bring their contributions, and they respond with generosity, bringing more than enough material for the work.
Bezalel and Oholiab are appointed leaders in the construction project, filled with the Spirit of God to devise artistic designs and work in various crafts.
The craftsmen work on the tabernacle, making its curtains, frames, bars, and other parts according to the LORD's commandments.
Moses stops the people from bringing more contributions when they have enough material, showing that the community is working together to complete the task.
Claims
- The LORD has commanded the construction of the sanctuary (Exodus 35:10).
- Every skillful craftsman among the people is called to make all that the LORD has commanded (Exodus 35:10).
- Bezalel and Oholiab are filled with the Spirit of God to devise artistic designs and work in various crafts (Exodus 35:30-31).
- The craftsmen work according to all that the LORD has commanded, making the tabernacle and its parts (Exodus 36:8).
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
The people are forced to contribute to the construction of the sanctuary
Correction
The people bring their contributions voluntarily.
Misunderstanding
The construction of the tabernacle is a solitary effort by Moses or a few individuals
Correction
The construction of the tabernacle is a community effort, where every skillful craftsman and woman contributes.
Application Questions
- How can we apply the principle of community effort to our own lives, working together with others to achieve a common goal?
- What skills and talents do you possess that could be used in the service of God's kingdom?
- How can we ensure that our contributions are made with a willing heart, as described in this passage?
Matthew 27:32-66
Big Idea
The crucifixion of Jesus is described in detail, highlighting the physical and emotional suffering he endured.
Commentary
The passage emphasizes the cruelty and mockery of the crowd towards Jesus as he hangs on the cross.
The use of gall to dull his senses before crucifixion highlights the brutality of the Roman soldiers.
The division of Jesus' garments among the soldiers by casting lots is a fulfillment of Psalm 22:18.
The inscription above Jesus' head, "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews," is a mockery by the chief priests and scribes.
The two robbers crucified with Jesus are also mocking him, showing that even those who were guilty of crimes against God's law were more willing to acknowledge Jesus as their king than the Jewish leaders.
The crowd's reaction to Jesus' cries of pain and his declaration of faith in God is a demonstration of their hardened hearts.
The tearing of the temple curtain from top to bottom signifies the end of the old covenant and the beginning of the new covenant through Jesus' sacrifice.
The earthquake, rocks splitting, and tombs opening are signs of the supernatural power of Jesus' resurrection.
The centurion's recognition of Jesus as the Son of God is a turning point in the narrative, marking a shift from mockery to awe and reverence.
The women who followed Jesus from Galilee, including Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, are present at the crucifixion site, showing their devotion to him.
Joseph of Arimathea's request for Jesus' body and his burial in a new tomb demonstrate his faith in Jesus as the Messiah.
Claims
- Jesus is the Son of God (Matthew 27:40).
- He is the King of Israel (Matthew 27:42).
- He trusts in God, who will deliver him if he desires it (Matthew 27:43).
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
The crowd's mocking of Jesus as the one who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days implies that they think he is making a boastful claim about his ability to accomplish something impossible.
Correction
This misunderstanding stems from their failure to understand Jesus' statement as a reference to his resurrection, not a literal rebuilding of the temple.
Misunderstanding
The chief priests and scribes believe that Jesus is trying to save himself by coming down from the cross if he's truly the Son of God.
Correction
They misunderstand Jesus' declaration of faith in God as an attempt to escape physical suffering.
Application Questions
- What does the crucifixion of Jesus reveal about human nature, particularly in relation to mocking and ridiculing those who suffer?
- How do the reactions of the crowd, the chief priests, and the centurion demonstrate different responses to Jesus' identity as the Son of God?
- In what ways can we apply Joseph's faith in Jesus to our own lives, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity?
Psalm 34:1-10
Big Idea
The Psalm 34:1-10 is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving written by David, emphasizing the benefits of fearing God and seeking His deliverance.
Commentary
The psalm begins with David's personal experience of being delivered from fears by God (Verse 4).
He encourages others to bless and praise God continually (Verses 1-3).
David invites others to magnify and exalt God's name together (Verse 3).
He recounts how he sought God and was answered, delivered from all fears (Verse 4).
He describes the benefits of looking to God, including radiant faces and no shame (Verse 6).
He shares a personal experience of crying out to God and being saved (Verse 7).
He notes that God encamps around those who fear him and delivers them (Verse 8).
He encourages others to taste and see that God is good (Verse 9).
He warns his saints to fear God, as those who do so have no lack (Verse 10).
Claims
- Those who look to God are radiant and will not be ashamed (Verse 6).
- The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, delivering them (Verse 8).
- Those who seek the LORD lack no good thing (Verse 16).
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
<The psalm is only about David's personal experience>
Correction
The psalm is a broader message to encourage others to bless and praise God continually.
Misunderstanding
<God only delivers those who are perfect>
Correction
The psalm emphasizes that God delivers those who fear Him, regardless of their behavior.
Application Questions
- How can you apply the principle of magnifying and exalting God's name together in your daily life?
- What does it mean to "taste and see" that God is good, and how can you experience this in your own life?
- In what ways can you encourage others to fear God and seek His deliverance?
Proverbs 9:7-8
Big Idea
The passage warns against correcting those who refuse correction.
Commentary
The speaker emphasizes the importance of discerning between individuals who are receptive to correction and those who are not.
Correcting a scoffer can lead to abuse, as they may become defensive or hostile.
Reproving a wicked person may result in injury, rather than change, as they are unlikely to be open to correction.
A wise person is receptive to correction and will respond positively.
The passage highlights the need for wisdom and discernment when interacting with others.
Correcting someone who refuses correction can damage relationships and create conflict.
Reproving a wicked person may not only fail to improve them but also harm the one doing the reproof.
A wise person, on the other hand, is open to learning and growth.
Claims
- Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse.
- He who reproves a wicked man incurs injury.
- Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you.
- Reprove a wise man, and he will love you.
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
A person who refuses correction is always unwise
Correction
The passage actually suggests that a person can be wicked but still be receptive to correction (e.g., the wise man).
Misunderstanding
Correcting someone who refuses correction will always lead to improvement
Correction
The passage warns against correcting those who refuse correction, as it may lead to abuse or injury.
Application Questions
- How do you determine whether someone is a scoffer or a wise person?
- What are some signs that someone is receptive to correction?
- How can you balance the need to correct others with the risk of causing harm?
- In what situations might it be necessary to reprove a wicked person, despite the potential risks?