Exodus 35:29

So all the men and women of the Israelites whose hearts prompted them brought a freewill offering to the LORD for all the work that the LORD through Moses had commanded them to do.

Study Bible

So all the men and women of the Israelites
This phrase highlights the communal involvement of the Israelites, emphasizing that both men and women participated in the offering. This reflects the inclusive nature of worship and service in the community of Israel. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, this joint participation underscores the unity and shared responsibility among the people of God. It also prefigures the New Testament teaching that in Christ, there is neither male nor female, but all are one (Galatians 3:28).

whose hearts prompted them
The phrase indicates a voluntary and heartfelt response, not one compelled by obligation. This reflects the biblical principle that God values offerings given willingly and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). The prompting of the heart suggests the work of the Holy Spirit, who moves individuals to act according to God's will. This voluntary spirit is a precursor to the New Covenant, where the law is written on the hearts of believers (Jeremiah 31:33).

brought a freewill offering to the LORD
A freewill offering is one that is given voluntarily, beyond what is required by law. This type of offering is significant in that it demonstrates the Israelites' devotion and gratitude to God. It is an act of worship and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision. The concept of freewill offerings is seen throughout Scripture, including in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to offer themselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).

for all the work that the LORD through Moses had commanded them to do
This phrase refers to the construction of the Tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites. The work commanded by the LORD through Moses included detailed instructions for building the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as outlined in earlier chapters of Exodus. This obedience to God's command is a demonstration of faith and trust in His plan. The Tabernacle itself is a type of Christ, symbolizing God's presence among His people, and foreshadowing the incarnation of Jesus, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land.

2. Moses
The leader and prophet chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egypt and to communicate God's laws and instructions to them.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who commanded the construction of the Tabernacle as a dwelling place among His people.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary that God instructed the Israelites to build as a place of worship and His dwelling among them.

5. Freewill Offering
Voluntary contributions made by the Israelites, motivated by a willing heart, for the construction of the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Willing Hearts in Service
The emphasis on "willing hearts" in Exodus 35:29 teaches us that God values the attitude and motivation behind our giving and service. Our contributions to God's work should be voluntary and joyful, not out of compulsion.

Community Participation
The collective effort of the Israelites in bringing offerings highlights the importance of community involvement in God's work. Each person's contribution, no matter how small, is valuable and necessary.

Obedience to God's Command
The Israelites' response to God's command through Moses demonstrates the importance of obedience in our relationship with God. We are called to act on God's instructions with faith and commitment.

Generosity as Worship
The act of giving is an expression of worship and devotion to God. Our generosity reflects our trust in God's provision and our desire to honor Him with our resources.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the phrase "whose hearts were willing" reveal about the nature of giving that pleases God, and how can we cultivate such willingness in our own lives?

2. How does the concept of a "freewill offering" in Exodus 35:29 relate to the New Testament teachings on giving, such as those found in 2 Corinthians 9:7?

3. In what ways can we, as a church community, encourage and facilitate collective participation in God's work, similar to the Israelites' contributions for the Tabernacle?

4. How does the obedience of the Israelites in bringing offerings for the Tabernacle challenge us to respond to God's commands in our own lives today?

5. Reflect on a time when you gave or served willingly and joyfully. How did that experience impact your relationship with God and others? How can you apply this attitude in future opportunities to give or serve?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Corinthians 9:7
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully, echoing the spirit of the freewill offerings in Exodus 35:29.

Exodus 25:1-9
This passage details God's initial command to Moses to collect offerings for the Tabernacle, highlighting the continuity of the Israelites' obedience.

1 Chronicles 29:9
The joy of the people in giving willingly for the construction of the Temple under King David parallels the willing hearts of the Israelites in Exodus.

Romans 12:1
The call to present our bodies as living sacrifices connects to the idea of offering ourselves willingly to God's service.