Exodus 31: A Detailed Explanation

Introduction

Exodus 31 is a pivotal chapter in the Book of Exodus, marking the conclusion of God's instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle. This chapter is divided into three main sections:

The Calling of Bezalel and Oholiab (vv. 1–11) – God appoints skilled craftsmen to build the Tabernacle and its furnishings.
The Importance of the Sabbath (vv. 12–17) – A reiteration of the Sabbath as a sign between God and Israel.
The Giving of the Tablets (v. 18) – Moses receives the two stone tablets of the Law, written by the finger of God.

1. The Calling of Bezalel and Oholiab (Exodus 31:1–11)

God’s Appointment of Bezalel (vv. 1–5)

Then the Lord said to Moses, “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills.” (Exodus 31:1–3, NIV)

God specifically calls Bezalel, a craftsman from the tribe of Judah, to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. His appointment is significant for several reasons:

Divine Selection – Bezalel was not chosen by men but directly appointed by God.
Spirit-Filled Artistry – This is one of the first instances in Scripture where someone is said to be filled with the Spirit of God. Unlike prophets or priests, Bezalel was an artisan, showing that God's Spirit empowers not just leaders but also craftsmen.
Comprehensive Skills – Bezalel is granted wisdom, understanding, and technical ability, suggesting that craftsmanship is not merely a physical skill but also involves divine wisdom.

The Assistance of Oholiab (vv. 6–11)

Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also, I have given ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you. (Exodus 31:6)

Alongside Bezalel, God appoints Oholiab from the tribe of Dan as his assistant. This demonstrates two key principles:

Teamwork in Ministry – Even the most gifted individuals need others to assist them.
Inclusivity – While Judah was the most prominent tribe, Dan was less significant. Yet, God chose someone from Dan, showing that divine calling is not limited to social status.

The Tabernacle’s Importance (vv. 7–11)

God lists the specific items they are to construct:

The Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle)
The Ark of the Covenant
The Mercy Seat
The Table of Showbread
The Lampstand
The Altar of Incense
The Altar of Burnt Offering
The Laver (Basin for washing)
Priestly garments
Anointing oil and incense

This underscores the holistic nature of worship, involving sacred space, objects, and rituals. Every element was divinely designed, emphasizing that worship is not based on human preferences but God's revelation.

2. The Importance of the Sabbath (Exodus 31:12–17)

The Sabbath as a Covenant Sign (vv. 12–13)

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Say to the Israelites, ‘You must observe my Sabbaths. This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that I am the Lord, who makes you holy.’”

The Sabbath was not just a day of rest but a covenant sign between God and Israel. It was a reminder of:

God’s Sovereignty – The Israelites were to trust in God's provision rather than their own labor.
Sanctification – The Sabbath set Israel apart from other nations.

The Consequence of Profaning the Sabbath (vv. 14–15)

“Whoever does any work on it must be put to death.”

This severe punishment highlights the seriousness of breaking the Sabbath. In ancient Israel, disobedience to the Sabbath was seen as rebellion against God’s authority. It also demonstrated that Israel’s survival depended not just on hard work but on obedience to divine law.

The Sabbath as a Perpetual Covenant (vv. 16–17)

“It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed.”

This connects the Sabbath to creation (Genesis 2:2–3). It was not merely a legalistic requirement but rooted in the very fabric of the universe. By observing the Sabbath, Israel mirrored God's own rhythm of work and rest.

3. The Giving of the Tablets (Exodus 31:18)

When the Lord finished speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the covenant law, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God.

This verse marks a dramatic transition. God hands Moses the two stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments, signifying:

Divine Authority – The laws were not of human origin but directly from God.
Permanence – The use of stone symbolized the unchanging nature of God's law.
Direct Revelation – The phrase written by the finger of God emphasizes divine authorship.

This moment sets the stage for the golden calf incident in Exodus 32, where Israel’s rebellion is starkly contrasted with God's holy law.

Theological and Practical Lessons from Exodus 31

1. God Calls and Equips People for Their Roles

Bezalel and Oholiab were craftsmen, yet they were empowered by the Spirit.
This affirms that all vocations—including artistry, engineering, and craftsmanship—can be sacred when dedicated to God.

2. The Importance of Rest and Worship

The Sabbath was a sign of Israel's relationship with God.
In today's world, where work is often prioritized over spiritual rest, this serves as a reminder that true productivity comes from trusting God.

3. Obedience to God’s Commands

The severe penalty for breaking the Sabbath shows that obedience is not optional.
Today, while the New Testament does not enforce the death penalty for Sabbath-breaking, it reminds believers of the importance of setting apart time for worship.

4. God's Law is Permanent and Authoritative

The stone tablets signify the eternal nature of God's Word.
Jesus reaffirmed the moral law, emphasizing love for God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37–40).

5. The Role of Community in Worship

Bezalel and Oholiab worked together, showing that God's work is best accomplished in unity.
The Sabbath was a communal practice, reinforcing that worship is not just individual but corporate.

Conclusion

Exodus 31 serves as a bridge between God’s instructions for the Tabernacle and Israel’s rebellion in the next chapter. It highlights:

The empowerment of individuals (Bezalel and Oholiab) for divine work.
The sacredness of the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant.
The authority of God’s Law as revealed through the stone tablets.

Ultimately, Exodus 31 calls believers to faithful service, obedience, and worship, reminding us that every aspect of life—including work, rest, and devotion—is to be dedicated to God.

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Wednesday, March 26, 2025