How does Exodus 35:34 connect with the New Testament teachings on spiritual gifts? Exodus 35:34—God Gives the Ability to Teach “And He has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others.” (Exodus 35:34) • God personally imparts skill, insight, and a teacher’s heart. • The verse highlights two men gifted for craftsmanship and instruction so the whole community could join in building the tabernacle. • Their talent is presented as a direct act of divine grace, not mere natural aptitude. From Tabernacle Craftsmen to New-Covenant Servants • Old Testament pattern: God equips people to build His dwelling place. • New Testament fulfillment: God equips believers to build up the church, “a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:5). • The same Giver stands behind both eras, distributing what is needed for His people to serve His presence. New Testament Passages on Spiritual Gifts • 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 11—“There are different gifts, but the same Spirit… to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good… as He determines.” • Romans 12:6-8—“We have different gifts according to the grace given us… teaching… leading… showing mercy…” • Ephesians 4:11-12—“He gave some to be… pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry.” • 1 Peter 4:10—“As each of you has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” • 2 Timothy 1:6—“Fan into flame the gift of God that is in you…” Clear Parallels Between Exodus 35:34 and Spiritual Gifts • Same Source – Exodus: “He has given…” – NT: “The Spirit distributes… as He determines.” (1 Corinthians 12:11) • Purpose-Driven – Exodus: Skills enabled the building of God’s physical dwelling. – NT: Gifts enable the building of God’s people. • Community Impact – Exodus: Craftsmen taught others so the whole congregation could participate. – NT: Gifts are “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Teaching Emphasis – Exodus: Ability “to teach others.” – NT: Teaching listed among key gifts (Romans 12:7; Ephesians 4:11). • Diversity in Unity – Exodus: Varied skills—wood, gold, fabric—yet one tabernacle. – NT: Varied gifts—service, prophecy, mercy—yet one body (1 Corinthians 12:12). Practical Takeaways for Today • Expect God-given abilities—spiritual gifts are not self-generated. • Discover your gifts by serving; Bezalel and Oholiab learned theirs in the work, not in theory. • Value every gift, whether “artistic skill” or public teaching; all contribute to God’s dwelling among His people. • Pass skills on; the ability to teach others is itself a gift meant to multiply effectiveness (2 Timothy 2:2). • Stay dependent on the Giver; gifts operate best when they draw attention to Him, just as the tabernacle showcased His glory. |
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