How does Exodus 35:31 connect with spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12? One Spirit, Two Testaments “and He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship” “There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” Exodus 35:31—Spirit-Filled Craftsmanship • The Lord singles out Bezalel, “filled … with the Spirit of God.” • Evidence of that filling: wisdom, understanding, skill—practical gifts for constructing the tabernacle. • Purpose: build a dwelling place where God meets His people (Exodus 25:8). 1 Corinthians 12—Spirit-Empowered Variety • Paul lists diverse gifts—wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, interpretation. • Repeated emphasis: “the same Spirit” distributes them (vv. 4, 8–11). • Goal: edify the body of Christ (v. 7; cf. Ephesians 4:12). Shared Themes 1. One Source – Bezalel’s abilities and the Corinthian gifts come from the Holy Spirit, not human ingenuity (Exodus 31:3; 1 Corinthians 12:11). 2. Divine Initiative – God chooses recipients (“I have chosen Bezalel,” Exodus 31:2; “the Spirit apportions as He wills,” 1 Corinthians 12:11). 3. Variety of Expression – Old Testament: artistic design, metalwork, weaving (Exodus 35:32-35). – New Testament: speaking gifts, power gifts, service gifts. – Different tasks, same overarching mission. 4. Corporate Benefit – Tabernacle craftsmanship served all Israel’s worship. – Spiritual gifts serve the church’s growth and unity (1 Colossians 12:7; 14:12). 5. Tangible Evidence of God’s Presence – Finished tabernacle signaled God dwelling with Israel (Exodus 40:34-35). – Exercised gifts signal the Spirit’s active presence in the church (1 Colossians 14:24-25). Other Scriptural Echoes • Romans 12:4-8—diverse members, one body, differing gifts. • 1 Peter 4:10—“each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” • Ephesians 4:7—grace given “according to the measure of Christ’s gift.” Practical Takeaways • Expect the Spirit to empower both “sacred” and “everyday” skills. • Recognize and celebrate diversity; art and administration can be as Spirit-given as prophecy. • Offer your gift for the community’s benefit, not personal prestige. • Seek the Spirit’s filling for excellence in whatever task He assigns, trusting His provision just as surely now as in the days of Bezalel and Paul. |
    |