Chapter 31
Chapter Outline
Bezaleel and Aholiab are appointed and (1–11)
qualified for the work of the tabernacle.
The observance of the sabbath. (12–17)
Moses receives the tables of the law. (18)Verses 1–11
The Israelites, who had been masons and bricklayers in Egypt, were not qualified for curious
workmanship; but the Spirit who gave the apostles utterance in divers tongues, miraculously gave
Bezaleel and Aholiab the skill that was wanting. The honour which comes from God, is always
attended with a work to be done; to be employed for God is high honour. Those whom God calls
to any service, he will find or make fit for it. The Lord gives different gifts to different persons; let
each mind his proper work, diligently remembering that whatever wisdom any one possesses, the
Lord put it in the heart, to do his commandments.
Verses 12–17
Orders were now given that a tabernacle should be set up for the service of God. But they must
not think that the nature of the work, and the haste that was required, would justify them in working
at it on sabbath days. The Hebrew word /shabath/ signifies rest, or ceasing from labour. The thing
signified by the sabbath is that rest in glory which remains for the people of God; therefore the
moral obligation of the sabbath must continue, till time is swallowed up in eternity.
Verse 18
The law was written in tables of stone, to show how lasting it is: to denote likewise the hardness
of our hearts; one might more easily write on stone, than write any thing good on our corrupt natural
hearts. It was written with the finger of God; by his will and power. God only can write his law in
the heart: he gives a heart of flesh; then, by his Spirit, which is the finger of God, writes his will in
the heart, 2Co 3:3.
Chapter 32
Chapter Outline
The people cause Aaron to make a golden (1–6)
calf.