Instructions: Bezalel and Sabbath · The tabernacle instructions conclude with the appointing of the master craftsman Bezalel (vv. 1–11) and a Sabbath reminder that the Lord is the source of their holiness (vv. 12–17). The creation of holy space and holy time come together. When the instructions are complete, the Lord gives Moses “the two tablets of the Testimony, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God” (v. 18). This chapter unites the themes of the Lord’s gifts to Israel: God’s creating; the indwelling Spirit; creative human ability; conferred holiness; rest; life protected and ordered by God’s law; and holy time and space (Gen. 2:1–2; Lev. 19:30).

31:1–11  The Lord chose Bezalel and Oholiab to make artistic designs . . . and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship. This text i…