How does Exodus 31:6 demonstrate God's provision for skilled workers in ministry? Scripture focus: Exodus 31:6 “Moreover, I have selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to work with him; and I have given wisdom to all the skilled craftsmen, that they may make everything I have commanded you.” The setting: building God’s dwelling - The chapter describes the construction of the tabernacle—a visible reminder that God dwells among His people (Exodus 25:8). - Every thread, clasp, and carving had to match God’s exact pattern (Exodus 25:9). Skilled labor was essential. God personally appoints skilled workers - “I have selected Oholiab… to work with him.” God names Bezalel (Exodus 31:1-5) and Oholiab specifically. - Their appointment comes straight from the LORD, not from a committee. - God’s calling still works this way: He sovereignly chooses people for tasks He values (Jeremiah 1:5; Acts 13:2). Skills are spiritually gifted, not merely natural - “I have given wisdom to all the skilled craftsmen.” • Wisdom here (Hebrew ḥokmâ) encompasses craftsmanship, know-how, and artistic insight. • God is the direct source; talents are grace-gifts, not human bragging rights (1 Corinthians 4:7). - Compare Exodus 35:31-35: “He has filled them with skill to perform every work.” The Holy Spirit empowers practical abilities. - New-covenant parallel: “There are different gifts, but the same Spirit… to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Collaboration in ministry - Bezalel and Oholiab lead a larger team of “all the skilled craftsmen.” Ministry is rarely a solo act. - Exodus 36:1 shows them teaching others, multiplying skill. - Nehemiah 3 offers another picture: families, goldsmiths, and perfumers all rebuilding the wall—everyone’s trade enlisted for God’s project. Provision for every detail - God not only plans the work; He supplies the workers, their skills, and even the materials (Exodus 12:35-36; 35:5-9). - When God commands, He also enables (Philippians 2:13). - The tabernacle’s completion in Exodus 40 proves that His provision was more than adequate. New Testament echoes - 1 Corinthians 12:18: “But in fact, God has arranged the members of the body, every one of them, according to His design.” - Ephesians 2:10: “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” - 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others…” Encouragement for today’s church - No ministry assignment lacks divine supply. If God directs a work, He equips people to carry it out. - Practical abilities—carpentry, coding, accounting, hospitality—are spiritual assets when yielded to Him. - The variety of gifts in a congregation reflects the multifaceted wisdom of God; every member is needed (Romans 12:4-6). - Therefore, discover and deploy the skills He has placed within you, confident that they are purposeful provisions for His kingdom. |
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