How does Exodus 39:6 demonstrate the importance of skilled craftsmanship in worship?

◄ Exodus 39:6: Craftsmanship in worship? ►

“They mounted the onyx stones in gold filigree settings, engraved with the names of the sons of Israel as a seal would be engraved.”

What We Notice in the Verse

• Onyx stones: rare, precious.

• Gold filigree settings: intricate metalwork requiring steady hands and trained eyes.

• Engraving the twelve tribal names: skilled inscription, permanent and legible.

Together these details shout “craftsmanship,” not hasty assembly.

Skillful Craftsmanship Was Commanded, Not Optional

• Exodus 28:9-11—God explicitly orders the same engraving work before any craftsman lifts a chisel.

• Exodus 39 records the exact obedience to those prior commands.

• Worship objects weren’t left to improvisation; God specified quality, materials, and artistry.

Craftsmanship Reflects God’s Character

• Genesis 1 portrays God as the first artisan, shaping a “very good” creation (Genesis 1:31).

• When His people fashion worship items with excellence, they mirror the Creator’s own attention to beauty and order.

• “For all His works are perfect” (Deuteronomy 32:4); workmanship in worship should echo that perfection.

Excellence Enhances Worship, Not Distracts from It

• Gold and onyx lifted Israel’s eyes to the glory of the LORD who dwelt among them (Exodus 25:8).

• Fine work didn’t glorify the artisans; it magnified the One who prescribed it.

• Philippians 4:8—whatever is “excellent” and “praiseworthy” is fitting for the believer’s thoughts and, by extension, offerings.

The Craftsmen Were Equipped by the Spirit

• Exodus 35:30-35—Bezalel and Oholiab are “filled with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.”

• Their talent was Spirit-given, validating that artistic skill is a legitimate spiritual gift for worship.

• 1 Corinthians 12:4-6—different gifts, same Spirit; craftsmanship belongs on that list.

Lasting Impact: Craftsmanship that Points to Christ

• High-priestly ephod carried Israel’s names; Christ our High Priest carries His people on His heart (Hebrews 4:14; John 10:3).

• Precious stones set in gold foreshadow the New Jerusalem’s jeweled foundations (Revelation 21:19-21).

• Excellence in Old Testament artifacts prepares hearts to appreciate the unsurpassed excellence of the Gospel.

Personal Takeaways for Today

• Offer God your best work—whether music, carpentry, graphics, or hospitality (Colossians 3:23).

• Value and support skilled believers who beautify corporate worship spaces.

• Remember that excellence is worship when it aims to exalt Christ, not self.