Connect Exodus 35:30 with other instances of God appointing leaders in Scripture. God Names His Craftsman: Exodus 35:30 “Then Moses said to the Israelites, ‘See, the LORD has called by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.’” Observations • God “called by name”―a deliberate, personal appointment. • The selection happens before any human vote or committee; the initiative is divine. • Bezalel is empowered for a specific task (Exodus 35:31-35), underscoring that God equips those He appoints. Earlier Patterns of Divine Appointment • Noah – “But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.” (Genesis 6:8) God singles him out for the ark and covenant preservation. • Abram – “Go from your country… and I will make you into a great nation.” (Genesis 12:1-2) A personal summons that begins Israel’s story. • Joseph – Through dreams and providence (Genesis 37; 41:38-41), God elevates him to save many lives. • Moses – “Come, I will send you to Pharaoh.” (Exodus 3:10) A divine calling accompanied by signs. • The Seventy Elders – “The LORD said to Moses, ‘Bring Me seventy of Israel’s elders… I will take of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them.’” (Numbers 11:16-17) Spirit-enabled leadership shared. • Joshua – “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hands on him.” (Numbers 27:18) Succession arranged by God, confirmed before the congregation. • Judges (Othniel, Gideon, Samson) – “The Spirit of the LORD came upon him” (Judges 3:10; 6:34; 14:6). Each is raised up for deliverance in response to Israel’s cry. • David – “Rise and anoint him, for he is the one.” (1 Samuel 16:12) God bypasses appearance and selects “a man after His own heart.” Prophets and Kings • Solomon – “Behold, I have appointed you to build a house for My name.” (1 Chronicles 28:6) A Bezalel-like charge but on royal scale. • Jeremiah – “Before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:5) Prenatal calling underscores God’s sovereignty. • Cyrus of Persia – Though a pagan, he is called “My shepherd” (Isaiah 44:28) and “His anointed” (Isaiah 45:1) to liberate Israel. New Testament Echoes • The Twelve – “He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated apostles.” (Luke 6:13) Naming and commissioning mirror Exodus 35:30. • Matthias – Chosen by lot under prayer for divine selection (Acts 1:24-26). • Paul – “Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father.” (Galatians 1:1) A direct heavenly appointment. • Spiritual Gifts in the Church – “God has appointed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers…” (1 Corinthians 12:28) The same sovereign distribution of roles and abilities. Spirit-Empowered Craftsmanship and Ministry • Bezalel is “filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship.” (Exodus 35:31) • New-covenant believers receive varied gifts “according to the grace given us” (Romans 12:6) for building up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12). Key Takeaways • God’s pattern is consistent: He calls, names, equips, and sends. • Leadership in Scripture is never self-appointed; divine initiative safeguards God’s purposes. • The same God who empowered Bezalel for artistry empowers believers today for every assignment He ordains. |
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