Charles (Chuck) Kensinger

Exodus 30 discusses the building of the altar of incense, atonement money, washing and incense.  Again, Yahweh is very specific about how to make these items and use them.  The formulas are to be held sacred forever.  Let’s stop and think about each of these for a minute.

Fragrances are some of the most effective triggers for memory.  The incense was to aid in guiding the Israelites to remember everything God did for them.  Why would God command His people to pay into the coffers of the sanctuary for their redemption?  Jesus paid the redemption price once and for all for everyone.  Cleanliness is next to godliness is a common saying.  The basin was for the priests to cleanse themselves before entering the tent.  Spiritual purity can only be gained by the salvation of Christ.  All these objects show the need for one ultimate sacrifice.  Have you accepted Him?

Craftsmen are given in Exodus 31 to do all the work that needs to be done.  This work requires skill and God given talent just as many Christians use in their service today.

The importance of the Sabbath is emphasized.  This is one of the commandments that carries the death penalty.  The prohibition on working more than six days a week joins Christians and Jews.  Today many don’t view this as a needed lifestyle.  We work all seven days and see no problems.  Doctors tell us that we are often working ourselves to death.  Isn’t that what Jehovah is saying here?

Exodus 32 concludes the instructions that Yahweh is giving to Moses.  He ends this by telling His servant that the Israelites have violated the first of the commandments and worshipped an idol.  The festival also violated the things that God told them to do.  They promised to follow Jehovah before Moses went up onto the mountain.  Forty days later they have already violated the law.

Everyone has an excuse.  Even Moses let his anger get the best of him.  He broke the tablets and had to remake the tablets himself.  A mass slaughter takes place as the Levites execute those involved in the idolatry.  Then God sends a plague that kills even more.  Will these drastic results stop further disobedience?  No.

©Copyright 2020 by Charles Kensinger