“And Moses gathered all the congregation of the children of Israel together, and said unto them, These are the words which the Lord hath commanded, that ye should do them.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and is a continuation of the narrative from the book of Genesis. It records the historical account of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey toward the Promised Land under the leadership of Moses. In chapter 35, the events take place after the Israelites have received the Ten Commandments and other laws from God on Mount Sinai.
Key Themes:
- The Gathering of the Congregation:Moses gathers all the congregation of the children of Israel. This assembly represents the entire community of Israelites, emphasising the communal nature of their relationship with God. It highlights the importance of unity and collective responsibility in fulfilling God’s commands.
- Obedience to God’s Commands:Moses addresses the people, explaining that the words he is about to share are the direct commands of the Lord. This underscores the authority and significance of God’s instructions for their lives. Obedience to God’s commands is a recurring theme throughout the Bible and is essential for a fruitful relationship with Him.
- God’s Commandments:The phrase “These are the words which the Lord hath commanded” emphasises the divine origin and authority of the instructions that follow. In this chapter and beyond, God provides detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, which was a portable sanctuary where His presence would dwell among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.
Application:
- Importance of Gathering:As believers, it is essential to gather together regularly with other Christians for worship, study of God’s Word, and fellowship. When we come together as a congregation, we strengthen one another, receive encouragement, and grow spiritually.
- Obedience to God’s Word:Just as Moses urged the Israelites to obey God’s commands, we are also called to obey His Word. The Bible serves as our guide for living a righteous and God-honouring life. By following His instructions, we experience His blessings and draw closer to Him.
- Recognising God’s Authority:The Israelites recognised God’s authority in the instructions they received from Moses. Similarly, we should acknowledge that God’s Word is the ultimate authority in our lives. As we read and study the Bible, let us approach it with reverence and humility, seeking to understand and apply its teachings.
- Building God’s Dwelling Place:In Exodus 35 and the following chapters, the Israelites contribute materials and craftsmanship to build the Tabernacle, which becomes a place of worship and encounter with God. Today, we, as believers, are God’s dwelling place through the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). We should strive to be living temples, reflecting His glory and presence to the world.
In conclusion, Exodus 35:1 highlights the gathering of the congregation, the importance of obedience to God’s commands, and the divine authority of His Word. As we study and apply these principles in our lives, we can grow in our relationship with God and experience the blessings of living in alignment with His will.
