Exodus 35:28: “They also brought spices and olive oil for the light and for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 35:28 describes the offerings of spices and olive oil brought by the Israelites for the construction and service of the Tabernacle. These items were essential for the worship practices that would take place within the Tabernacle. The olive oil was used to keep the lamps burning in the Tabernacle, ensuring that there was always light in the holy place. The spices were used to create the anointing oil, which was used to consecrate the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the priests who served there. Additionally, the spices were also used to make the fragrant incense that was burned on the altar of incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people rising to God.
This verse highlights the importance of these seemingly simple items in the worship and service of God. The oil and spices, though common, were made sacred by their use in the Tabernacle. The willingness of the people to contribute these items reflects their dedication to the worship of God and their desire to see His presence honored among them.
Historical Context
Historically, this verse is set in the context of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. God had given Moses specific instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God’s presence would dwell among His people. The materials for the Tabernacle, including the spices and olive oil, were provided by the people as offerings.
Olive oil was a valuable commodity in the ancient Near East, used for cooking, lighting, and anointing. The anointing oil made from olive oil and spices was a symbol of consecration and holiness. It was used to set apart the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests for service to God. The fragrant incense made from the spices was burned on the altar of incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 35:28 emphasizes the idea that everything used in the worship of God is made holy by its purpose. The oil and spices, though common in everyday life, became sacred when dedicated to God’s service. This reflects the biblical principle that ordinary things can become extraordinary when they are given to God and used for His glory.
This verse also highlights the importance of participation in worship. The people brought these items willingly, showing that true worship involves giving of ourselves and our resources to honor God. The use of oil and spices in the Tabernacle’s worship points to the idea that God desires a fragrant offering from His people, not just in the physical sense but also in the spiritual sense—our prayers, our worship, and our lives offered to Him.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, this verse is part of the detailed account of the offerings brought by the Israelites for the construction of the Tabernacle. The inclusion of specific items like spices and olive oil highlights the care and attention given to every aspect of the Tabernacle’s construction and service. The repetition of the idea of bringing offerings throughout the chapter emphasizes the collective effort and dedication of the people in fulfilling God’s instructions.
The verse also connects to the broader narrative of Exodus, where the theme of consecration and holiness is central. The mention of anointing oil and incense ties back to earlier instructions in Exodus, reinforcing the importance of these elements in the worship of God.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 30:22-25 – God’s instructions for making the sacred anointing oil, emphasizing its importance in consecrating the Tabernacle and its furnishings.
- Leviticus 24:2 – Instructions for the Israelites to bring pure olive oil for the lamps, showing the ongoing need for the light in the Tabernacle.
- Revelation 8:3-4 – The imagery of incense in the New Testament, symbolizing the prayers of the saints rising before God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 35:28 serves as a reminder that everything we offer to God, no matter how simple, can be used for His glory. Just as the Israelites brought spices and oil, we are called to bring our resources, time, and talents to God, trusting that He will use them for His purposes. This verse challenges us to consider how we can dedicate the ordinary aspects of our lives to God, making them sacred through our service and worship.
The verse also encourages us to think about the importance of light and fragrance in our spiritual lives. The oil that kept the lamps burning in the Tabernacle symbolizes the light of Christ in our lives, which we are called to keep shining brightly. The incense represents our prayers and worship, which should rise to God as a pleasing aroma.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in that He invites His people to participate in His work and worship. God didn’t need the oil or spices from the Israelites, but He allowed them to contribute to His work, giving them the opportunity to be part of something sacred. This act of bringing offerings was a way for the people to express their love and devotion to God, and it shows God’s desire for a relationship with His people where they are active participants in His plans.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 35:28 connects to Jesus Christ in several ways. The anointing oil and incense used in the Tabernacle point to the greater reality of Christ, who is the ultimate Anointed One (the Messiah) and the perfect Mediator between God and humanity. Just as the oil and spices were used to consecrate the Tabernacle and its priests, Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection consecrate us, making us holy and acceptable to God.
Moreover, the idea of light in the Tabernacle, kept burning by the oil, connects to Jesus as the Light of the World (John 8:12). The incense, representing the prayers of the people, reminds us that through Jesus, our prayers are heard and are a pleasing aroma to God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the willingness of the Israelites to bring their offerings challenge you to consider what you can offer to God?
- In what ways can you dedicate the ordinary aspects of your life to God, making them sacred through your service and worship?
- How does the imagery of light and incense in this verse influence your understanding of prayer and worship in your own life?
- What does it mean to you that God invites you to participate in His work, even with simple offerings?
- How does Jesus’ role as the Anointed One and the Light of the World inspire you to live a life dedicated to God’s service?