What role does divine gifting play in fulfilling God's plans in Exodus 31:6? Context: God’s Blueprint and the Craftsmen “Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to work with him. And I have given ability to all the skilled men, so that they may make everything I have commanded you.” (Exodus 31:6) Divine Gifting Is Specific and Personal • God names Bezalel (v. 1–5) and Oholiab (v. 6) individually. • Skill is not random talent; it is a direct impartation: “I have given ability to all the skilled men.” • This counters any thought that human effort alone could fabricate the tabernacle. Divine Gifting Is Purpose-Driven • The ability is given “so that they may make everything I have commanded you.” • Gifting is inseparable from obedience; the Spirit equips precisely for what God requires (Exodus 25:8-9; 35:30-35). Divine Gifting Builds a Dwelling for God • The tabernacle foreshadows God’s desire to dwell among His people (Exodus 29:45-46). • New-covenant parallel: believers are now God’s dwelling (1 Corinthians 3:16), and spiritual gifts build up that living temple (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Divine Gifting Encourages Cooperative Ministry • “To work with him” ties Oholiab to Bezalel; gifting never promotes isolation. • Shared skills unify diverse tribes (Judah and Dan) under one purpose (Ephesians 4:16). Divine Gifting Depends on God’s Enabling Presence • The same Spirit who filled craftsmen later empowers prophets (Numbers 11:25), kings (1 Samuel 16:13), and the church (Acts 2:17-18). • “The LORD’s hand has been upon me, and He taught me” (Isaiah 50:4) echoes the pattern of empowered service. Divine Gifting Invites Faithful Stewardship Today • “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another” (1 Peter 4:10). • “We have different gifts according to the grace given us” (Romans 12:6). • Whether artistry, leadership, or mercy, every gift is entrusted for carrying out God’s plans (Ephesians 2:10). Conclusion: Gifting Completes God’s Plans The tabernacle rose because God infused ordinary people with extraordinary skill. Divine gifting is God’s chosen means to ensure His purposes move from command to completion—then and now. |
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