How can we apply "skilled among you" to our church community today? Setting the Scene in Exodus 35 • “Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make all that the LORD has commanded.” (Exodus 35:10) • Israel is about to construct the tabernacle. God does not ask for random volunteers; He calls for people already gifted. • The passage assumes abilities are God-given, real, and ready to be put to work for His glory. Recognizing the Source of Skill • God is the Giver: “He has filled him with the Spirit of God—with skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship” (Exodus 35:31). • Talent is never self-made; it is entrusted. See also 1 Corinthians 4:7. • Every gift finds its highest purpose when it serves God’s clear command. Discovering the Skills in Our Congregation • Pay attention to what members already do well—teaching, wiring, carpentry, graphic design, cooking, event planning. • Encourage testimony moments where people briefly share their weekday vocations and hobbies. • Leaders should prayerfully list church needs, then match them with known skills (Acts 6:3 shows the wisdom of selecting qualified people). Practical Ways to Mobilize the Skilled Among Us 1. Facility Care – Electricians, plumbers, painters keep the building safe and welcoming. 2. Worship & Tech – Musicians, sound engineers, livestream operators enhance gathered worship (Psalm 33:3). 3. Teaching & Discipleship – Gifted communicators write curricula, lead classes, mentor youth (2 Timothy 2:2). 4. Mercy Ministries – Medical professionals host clinics; counselors offer biblically grounded care (Galatians 6:2). 5. Administration & Finance – Accountants, organizers, and project managers ensure stewardship integrity (1 Corinthians 14:40). 6. Creative Outreach – Artists design evangelistic materials; writers craft devotionals; videographers tell testimonies (Psalm 96:3). 7. Community Impact – Tradespeople repair homes for the elderly; chefs coordinate food drives (Matthew 5:16). Guarding Against Obstacles • Comparison: “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I do not need you’” (1 Corinthians 12:21). • Pride: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • Burnout: Rotate teams and honor Sabbath rest (Exodus 20:8-11). Celebrating the Fruit • Needs are met more excellently and efficiently. • Unused members become engaged, feeling essential to the body (Romans 12:4-6). • Outsiders witness a living picture of Christ’s diverse yet unified body (John 13:35). • God receives visible glory when His gifts are stewarded publicly and joyfully (1 Peter 4:10-11). |
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