Exodus 37:1-38:31
Big Idea
The construction of the tabernacle is a meticulous process that involves the work of skilled craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab.
Commentary
The passage describes the materials used for the tabernacle, including acacia wood, pure gold, bronze, and fine twined linen.
The construction of the tabernacle is a complex process that requires great skill and attention to detail.
The use of gold and silver in the construction of the tabernacle highlights its importance as a sacred space.
The passage emphasizes the role of the Levites in the construction of the tabernacle, with Ithamar serving as their leader.
The materials used for the tabernacle are donated by the congregation, demonstrating their commitment to the project.
The passage provides a detailed account of the construction process, including the making of the ark, table, lampstand, altar of incense, and other items.
The use of bronze in the construction of the altar and other items highlights its importance as a durable material for sacred objects.
The passage emphasizes the importance of following God's commands in the construction of the tabernacle.
The materials used for the tabernacle are carefully accounted for, with specific amounts of gold, silver, and bronze listed.
The passage provides a sense of closure by listing the total amount of materials used and the number of people involved in the project.
Claims
- God commands Moses to have the Levites make the tabernacle (Exodus 37:1).
- Bezalel makes the ark of acacia wood with gold overlay (Exodus 37:1-9).
- The holy anointing oil and incense are made (Exodus 37:29).
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
The tabernacle is made entirely of gold.
Correction
The passage actually describes a combination of materials, including acacia wood, pure gold, bronze, and fine twined linen.
Misunderstanding
The construction of the tabernacle is a simple process that can be completed quickly.
Correction
The passage emphasizes the complexity and time-consuming nature of the construction process.
Application Questions
- How does the use of different materials in the construction of the tabernacle reflect its importance as a sacred space?
- What role do the Levites play in the construction of the tabernacle, and how do they demonstrate their commitment to God's commands?
- How does the passage emphasize the importance of following God's commands in the construction of the tabernacle?
Matthew 28:1-20
Big Idea
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a pivotal event in the New Testament, marking the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the beginning of the Christian era.
Commentary
The passage begins on the first day of the week, emphasizing the significance of this day as a new creation.
Mary Magdalene and another Mary visit Jesus' tomb, demonstrating their devotion to him despite his crucifixion.
An angel appears, rolling back the stone and sitting on it, symbolizing the power of God over death and the authority of Christ.
The guards tremble with fear, highlighting the awe-inspiring nature of the angel's appearance.
The angel instructs the women to tell the disciples about Jesus' resurrection, emphasizing the importance of spreading this news.
The women depart quickly with great joy and fear, demonstrating their emotional response to the event.
Jesus meets them and instructs them to go to Galilee, where they will see him again.
The guards spread a false story among the chief priests and elders, attempting to cover up the truth about Jesus' resurrection.
The eleven disciples go to Galilee, worship Jesus, but some doubt his identity.
Jesus gives the Great Commission to the disciples, instructing them to make disciples of all nations.
Claims
- Jesus has risen from the dead, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and demonstrating his divine authority.
- The angel's appearance is a manifestation of God's power and glory.
- The resurrection of Jesus marks the beginning of the Christian era and the spread of Christianity throughout the world.
- The Great Commission given by Jesus to the disciples is a call to action for all believers, emphasizing the importance of spreading the gospel.
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
<The women were the first to see Jesus after his resurrection.>
Correction
<Jesus appeared to other people before he appeared to the women, including the guards and the disciples in Galilee.>
Misunderstanding
<The angel's appearance was just a dream or a hallucination.>
Correction
<The angel's appearance is described as being like lightning, emphasizing its reality and significance.>
Application Questions
- How can we respond with great joy and fear to the news of Jesus' resurrection?
- What does it mean for us to "make disciples of all nations" in our daily lives?
- How can we spread the gospel message effectively, just as the angel instructed the women?
Psalm 34:11-22
Big Idea
God teaches children to fear Him, which is the key to a long, good life.
Commentary
The passage emphasizes the importance of fearing God for a fulfilling and prosperous life.
Children are encouraged to listen to God's instruction and learn from it.
The verse highlights the consequences of evil speech and actions, warning against deceitful lips and turning away from evil.
Seeking peace and pursuing it is presented as a crucial aspect of living a good life.
God's attention to the righteous implies His care for them, while His face against the wicked indicates opposition to their actions.
The passage also emphasizes God's role in delivering those who cry out in trouble and saving those crushed in spirit.
Afflictions are temporary, but ultimately do not harm the righteous.
Claims
- Fearing God leads to a long, good life (v. 11-14).
- God delivers the righteous from all their troubles (v. 15-17).
- The wicked will be condemned and afflicted, while the righteous will be redeemed (v. 19-22).
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
- A person must only fear God to live a good life
Correction
Fear of the LORD is what God wants to teach children, but it involves more than just fearing Him; it's about living a life that reflects His character.
Misunderstanding
- One must avoid evil at all costs, even if it means sacrificing relationships or opportunities
Correction
The passage warns against evil speech and actions, but it also encourages seeking peace and pursuing it, which implies building positive relationships.
Application Questions
- How can you apply the concept of fearing God to your daily life?
- What are some ways you can seek peace and pursue it in difficult situations?
- How does God's attention to the righteous impact your understanding of His character?
Proverbs 9:9-10
Big Idea
Wisdom and righteousness are not static states, but rather dynamic processes that can be cultivated through instruction and learning.
Commentary
Instruction is given to those who already possess some level of wisdom or righteousness.
The wise and righteous are capable of learning and growing further.
The fear of the Lord is a fundamental aspect of wisdom.
The knowledge of the Holy One is essential for gaining insight.
Wisdom and insight are related concepts that build upon one another.
Instruction from others can help individuals become even wiser and more knowledgeable.
The process of becoming wise and righteous is ongoing, rather than a one-time achievement.
Fear of the Lord is not just about avoiding sin, but also about cultivating a deep reverence for God's character and ways.
Knowledge of the Holy One involves understanding His nature, attributes, and actions.
Claims
- Instruction from others can lead to increased wisdom and knowledge.
- The fear of the Lord is essential for beginning wisdom.
- The knowledge of the Holy One gives insight into life and its complexities.
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
A person must already be wise or righteous in order to receive instruction
Correction
Instruction is given to those who are willing to learn, regardless of their current level of wisdom or righteousness.
Misunderstanding
The fear of the Lord is a static state that one either has or does not have
Correction
The fear of the Lord is a dynamic process that can be cultivated and deepened over time.
Application Questions
- How can I apply this principle in my own life, seeking instruction from others to become wiser and more knowledgeable?
- What are some ways that I can cultivate a deeper reverence for God's character and ways, demonstrating my fear of the Lord?
- In what areas of my life do I need to seek instruction or guidance from others, and how can I approach these situations with humility and openness?