Holiness, Disobedience, and Broken Covenant
Exodus 30-32 highlights both God’s holiness and the people’s struggle with faithfulness. In these chapters, we see detailed instructions for the construction of sacred items like the altar of incense and the bronze basin, emphasizing the importance of purity and consecration in approaching God. However, the narrative takes a dark turn with the golden calf incident in Exodus 32, where the Israelites, in their impatience, turn to idolatry, breaking their covenant with God.
Exodus 30 begins with instructions on building the Altar of Incense. The altar for burning incense is to be similar in construction to the altar for burnt offering (27:1–8), except that it is smaller and is overlaid with pure gold since it is one of the three pieces to serve in the Holy Place (v. 3). Like the altar of burnt offering, it will horns (v. 2). Another similarity to the altar of burnt offering, as well as the table of the bread of the Presence, and the ark of the covenant, is that it is to have poles in gold rings, for carrying it (v. 4-5). The altar is to be placed before the veil, which separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (v. 6). Aaron and his sons are to burn incense on it every morning and evening, symbolizing the people’s prayers rising before God (v. 7-8). The incense offering is not to be used for personal purposes, and no “unauthorized incense” is to be burned on it (v. 9). This altar and its use are meant to be a continual act of worship and a sign of the people’s relationship with God. Additionally, once a year, Aaron is to make atonement on its horns. The annual atonement must be made with the blood of the atoning sin offering for the generations to come (v. 10).
In addition, God commands a census to be taken of the people, and every male over the age of 20 is to pay a tax to help maintain the Tabernacle and its services. This tax will be considered a ransom because its payment guarantees protection from plagues. It is also considered an atonement, a covering for sins (v. 11-14). The offering is not to be too much or too little for anyone; it is to be a uniform amount for all (v. 15-16). The atonement money continues the principle that all people belong to God and, therefore, need to be redeemed by a sacrifice. During each census, everyone, both rich and poor, is required to pay a ransom, symbolizing that God’s mercy is available to all, regardless of status. God does not discriminate between people. All of us need mercy and forgiveness because of our sinful thoughts and actions. No one can buy their way out of God’s justice, nor can anyone escape the need for payment. God’s expectation is that we all come to Him with humility, seeking forgiveness and inclusion in His family.
Next, God instructs Moses to make a bronze basin for washing, to be placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar (v. 17-18). The priests are to wash their hands and feet before approaching the altar to offer sacrifices, ensuring they are ceremonially clean before performing their duties (v. 19-21). This emphasizes the need for purity and holiness in service to God, and it serves as a tangible reminder that sin has to be cleansed before coming into God’s presence. God, then, gives Moses a recipe for a special anointing oil that is to be used to consecrate the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests. The oil is to be made from a blend of spices and olive oil (v. 22-31). This anointing oil is to be treated as sacred, and no one is to replicate it for personal use (v. 32-33).
Special incense is also to be prepared by mixing equal amounts of three spices and frankincense. Salt is to be added to the mixture to add to the fragrance (v. 34-35). The incense is to be placed in front of the ark of the covenant law in the tent of meeting, where God will meet with them (v. 36). This incense, like the anointing oil, is exclusively for tabernacle use. Like the sacred anointing oil, the incense is so holy that the people are strictly forbidden to copy it for personal use. (v. 37-38).
Exodus 31 marks the conclusion of God’s detailed instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. This chapter emphasizes God’s sovereign appointment of skilled workers, the importance of the Sabbath, and the giving of the two tablets of the covenant law.
Having given Moses the directions for constructing the sanctuary as well as instructions for its service (chaps. 25-30), the Lord now gives instructions on appointing the artisans who were to do the construction work. God declares that He has filled them with the Spirit of God and has granted them wisdom, understanding, and skill in craftsmanship to carry out their specific duties (v. 1-5). The Tabernacle is to be constructed according to God’s precise design by gifted men who are supernaturally enabled to oversee all the tasks required (v. 6-11).
Bezalel was appointed by God to have general oversight of the project, and Oholiab was appointed as his assistant. One was of the tribe of Judah, and the other of the tribe of Dan. Both were skilled craftsmen by divine gift, which was true of all the craftsmen appointed to the project (v. 1-11). God regards all the skills of his people, not merely those with theological or ministerial abilities. Our tendency is to regard only those who are upfront and in leadership roles. God gave Bezalel and Oholiab Spirit-filled abilities in artistic craftsmanship. Take notice of all the abilities God gives his people. Don’t diminish your skills if they are not like Moses’ and Aaron’s.
We must remember that God calls and equips individuals for specific tasks, and when He gives us a calling, He also provides the ability to carry it out. Our talents and skills are given by God for His glory—whether in craftsmanship, teaching, music, or any other field. Our work for God should involve both excellence and dedication. Just as Bezalel and Oholiab carefully followed God’s instructions, we should offer our best in whatever we do for Him. How are you using the talents and skills God has given you to serve Him with excellence and dedication? What steps can you take to ensure you’re following His calling rather than seeking personal recognition?
After giving instructions about the Tabernacle, God reaffirms the Sabbath command as a perpetual covenant between Him and Israel (v. 12-13). The Sabbath is to be a day of rest, and violating it results in death (v. 14-15). The Sabbath is a sign of the covenant, a reminder that God set Israel apart to be His holy people (v. 16-17). To keep God’s Sabbath is to keep the covenant.
Ultimately, the Sabbath serves two purposes: a time for rest and a time to reflect on God’s works. Rest is essential—without stepping away from the busyness of life, its meaning can fade. Just as in Moses’ time, setting aside this time is challenging, but God reminds us that without Sabbaths, we risk losing sight of our purpose and the balance needed for a faithful life. Ensure your Sabbath includes both renewal and remembrance of God.
Finally, God gives Moses two stone tablets. These tablets are described as “written by the finger of God” (v. 18). They contain the foundational laws for Israel’s covenant relationship with God. Now, all of God’s instructions to Moses given on Mount Sinai concerning the Tabernacle and its priestly ministry were complete.
Exodus 32 is one of the most tragic and yet deeply instructive chapters in the Bible. After witnessing God’s power in Egypt, crossing the Red Sea, and receiving His law, the Israelites quickly fall into idolatry. This chapter reveals the dangers of impatience and compromise, the severity of sin, the necessity of intercession, and the overwhelming grace of God.
While Moses is on Mount Sinai, receiving the Ten Commandments, the Israelites grow impatient and demand that Aaron make them a god to lead them (v. 1). Aaron gives in and fashions a golden calf from the people’s gold (v. 2-4). They proceed to offer sacrifices and engage in revelry, treating this idol as their new god (v. 5-6).
Instead of waiting for God’s timing, the people take matters into their own hands. Although they do not entirely reject God, they do mix truth with error, which is equally dangerous. Their false worship led to immorality, and their idolatry quickly turned into pagan revelry, showing that sin multiplies when left unchecked. Idolatry isn’t just about golden statues; anything we prioritize over God—money, success, relationships—can become an idol.
God was aware of the Israelite’s sins and declared His intent to destroy them and start over with Moses (v. 9-10). However, Moses intercedes on their behalf, pleading with God to relent and remember His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (v. 11-13). In response to Moses’ plea, God relents and does not destroy them (v. 14). Moses’ prayer shows that intercession matters. Though the people deserve destruction, God shows grace in response to Moses’ plea.
Moses descends the mountain carrying the stone tablets written by the finger of God. When he sees the golden calf and the people’s revelry, he throws down the tablets, breaking them, signifying that Israel has broken the covenant (v. 15-19). He burns the golden calf, grinds it into powder, scatters it on the water, and forces the Israelites to drink it (v. 20). When Moses confronts Aaron, Aaron makes excuses and blames the people (v. 21-24). Moses then calls for loyalty to the Lord. The Levites step forward, and Moses commands them to put to death those who remain rebellious. About 3,000 Israelites perish (v. 26-28).
The next day, Moses seeks atonement for Israel’s sin. He offers himself as a sacrifice. However, God declares that each person is responsible for their own sin. Therefore, He sends a plague upon Israel as punishment (v. 30-35). Sin requires atonement, and Moses understands that forgiveness comes at a cost. One person cannot atone for another’s sin – Moses’ offer is rejected, pointing forward to the fact that only Jesus could make atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:14). Jesus is the ultimate intercessor, fulfilling what Moses foreshadowed (1 Timothy 2:5).
Exodus 32 reveals the devastating consequences of idolatry, the power of intercession, and the necessity of repentance. The golden calf incident highlights how quickly people turn away from God when their faith is tested. Yet, even in the midst of judgment, we see God’s mercy. This chapter reminds us that sin must be confronted, repentance must be genuine, and true worship must be undivided.
In application, we must ask ourselves: What “golden calves” have we created? Have we grown impatient with God’s timing and sought security in something other than Him? Like the Israelites, we are prone to forget God’s past faithfulness when circumstances seem uncertain. Yet, true faith waits on the Lord and worships Him alone. We must also take sin seriously, refusing to excuse or justify what separates us from God. Finally, we are called to intercede for others as Moses did, standing in prayer for our families, communities, and even those who have strayed.
Personal Challenge: Examine your heart—what competes for your devotion? Are you trusting in God’s provision, or are you fashioning your own solutions? Take time this week to repent of anything that has taken God’s place in your life. Like Moses, commit to standing in the gap for others through prayer. Above all, worship the Lord alone, remembering that He alone is worthy of our trust and obedience.
The chapters of Exodus 30-32 present a vivid portrayal of Israel’s continued journey toward holiness, their covenant with God, and the ultimate human propensity for idolatry and rebellion. While the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings highlight the sacredness of God’s presence and the necessity of purity in worship, the golden calf incident exposes the Israelites’ vulnerability to sin and the consequences of turning away from God. These chapters challenge us to reflect on our own devotion to God, urging us to approach Him with reverence, purity, and obedience, while also acknowledging our need for His grace and forgiveness when we fall short.
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