How does Exodus 36:2 connect with New Testament teachings on spiritual gifts? Setting the Scene: Exodus 36:2 “Then Moses summoned Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person in whom the LORD had put skill, everyone whose heart stirred him to come do the work.” Key Insights from the Verse • Divine Gifting – “the LORD had put skill.” • Human Willingness – “whose heart stirred him.” • Purposeful Service – “to come do the work” on the tabernacle, the center of Israel’s worship. Parallels with New Testament Teaching on Spiritual Gifts • Same Source – 1 Corinthians 12:4–6: “There are different gifts, but the same Spirit… the same God works all things in all men.” – Ephesians 4:7: “To each one of us grace has been given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” • Same Call to Willing Response – 2 Timothy 1:6: “Fan into flame the gift of God.” – Romans 12:6: “We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” • Same Community-Building Goal – 1 Corinthians 12:7: “The manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” – 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.” Shared Principles • God both assigns and empowers every ability. • Gifts are activated when hearts are stirred in obedience. • Diversity of gifting is intentional; no one person carries the whole project. • The ultimate aim is worship and the edification of God’s people. Living It Out Today • Identify the skill God has “put” in you. • Let your heart be “stirred” through Scripture and fellowship. • Offer your gift where it builds up Christ’s body—your local church is today’s living temple (1 Corinthians 3:16). • Celebrate the variety of gifts around you, remembering that every Bezalel needs an Oholiab, and the project advances only when all respond together. |
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