What skills in Exodus 35:35 can be applied to modern church service? Scripture Focus “He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen, and as weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers.” (Exodus 35:35) God-Given Skills in the Text • Engraving – precise carving or cutting • Designing – planning and conceptual creativity • Embroidering – detailed needlework with color and texture • Weaving – constructing fabric from individual threads • General artistic craftsmanship – the ability to shape raw materials into objects fit for worship Timeless Principles Behind the Skills • The Lord Himself imparts practical abilities (Exodus 31:3; James 1:17). • Artistic gifts are as Spirit-given as any other ministry gift (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). • Beauty and excellence honor God when aimed at His glory (Psalm 96:6; Colossians 3:23). • Every believer’s talent has a place in corporate worship (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Peter 4:10). Modern Church Applications • Engraving → graphic design, signage, woodworking, baptismal or communion furniture detailing. • Designing → sanctuary layout, event themes, sermon slides, website aesthetics, outreach materials. • Embroidering → banners, pulpit cloths, choir robes, prayer quilts, missionary gift items. • Weaving → crafting stage backdrops, scenery for dramas, prayer shawls, mercy blankets. • Artistic craftsmanship → stage lighting, floral arrangements, set construction, seasonal décor. • Project coordination implied by “all kinds of work” → volunteer management, facility maintenance, construction oversight. Living it Out in the Local Church • Identify members with creative or technical abilities and invite them into worship teams, media crews, or décor committees. • Provide training and resources so their skills reach full potential, mirroring Moses’ call to equip Bezalel and Oholiab. • Celebrate artistic service publicly, reinforcing that craftsmanship is worship, not mere decoration. • Encourage intergenerational mentoring—experienced artisans guiding younger believers, ensuring continuity of skill and devotion (2 Timothy 2:2). Encouragement for Today Just as the tabernacle needed Spirit-filled artisans, every congregation today benefits when believers channel their God-given craftsmanship into the life of the church. Whatever the medium—wood, fabric, pixels, or sound—offering creative skill to the Lord turns ordinary work into sacred service. |
    |