Chapter 35
Chapter Outline
The sabbath to be observed. (1–3)
The free gifts for the tabernacle. (4–19)
The readiness of the people in general. (20–29)
Bezaleel and Aholiab called to the work. (30–35)Verses 1–3
The mild and easy yoke of Christ has made our sabbath duties more delightful, and our sabbath
restraints less irksome, than those of the Jews; but we are the more guilty by neglecting them. Surely
God's wisdom in giving us the sabbath, with all the mercy of its purposes, are sinfully disregarded.
Is it nothing to pour contempt upon the blessed day, which a bounteous God has given to us for
our growth in grace with the church below, and to prepare us for happiness with the church above?
Verses 4–19
The tabernacle was to be dedicated to the honour of God, and used in his service; and therefore
what was brought for it, was an offering to the Lord. The rule is, Whosoever is of a willing heart,
let him bring. All that were skilful must work. God dispenses his gifts; and as every man hath
received, so he must minister, 1Pe 4:10. Those that were rich, must bring in materials to work on;
those that were skilful, must serve the tabernacle with their skill: as they needed one another, so
the tabernacle needed them both, 1Co 12:7–21.
Verses 20–29
Without a willing mind, costly offerings would be abhorred; with it, the smallest will be accepted.
Our hearts are willing, when we cheerfully assist in promoting the cause of God. Those who are
diligent and contented in employments considered mean, are as much accepted of God as those
engaged in splendid services. The women who spun the goats' hair were wise-hearted, because they
did it heartily to the Lord. Thus the labourer, mechanic, or servant who attends to his work in the
faith and fear of God, may be as wise, for his place, as the most useful minister, and he equally
accepted of the Lord. Our wisdom and duty consist in giving God the glory and use of our talents,
be they many or few.
Verses 30–35
Here is the Divine appointment of the master-workmen, that there might be no strife for the
office, and that all who were employed in the work might take direction from, and give account to
them. Those whom God called by name to his service, he filled with the Spirit of God. Skill, even
in worldly employments, is God's gift, and comes from above. But many are ready enough in cutting