Connect Exodus 39:13 to New Testament teachings on spiritual gifts and talents. A Snapshot of Exodus 39:13 “the fourth row had a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper.” • The high priest’s breastpiece bore twelve distinct gemstones, each engraved with one tribe’s name. • Every stone was individually set in gold filigree, then arranged as one unified ornament on the priest’s chest. • Israel’s identity before God was pictured in diversity held together by divine craftsmanship. Precious Stones, Precious People • Just as every tribe had its own stone, every believer is uniquely “engraved” with a God-given grace. • The gold setting speaks of God’s perfect design—He fixes each gift where it will shine best. • Together, the stones formed a single breastpiece; together, our gifts form one body (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:12). Gifts Set in Gold: Linking to the New Testament • 1 Corinthians 12:7—“To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” • Romans 12:6—“We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” • Ephesians 4:7—“To each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.” • 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” Key connections: – Diversity: Twelve stones, many gifts. – Unity: One breastpiece, one body. – Purpose: Display God’s glory and bless others, not self-promotion. – Divine placement: The Lord chooses both the gift and its setting. Talents on Display: The Parable Connection Matthew 25:21—“Well done, good and faithful servant.” • Like the gemstones, the servants’ talents were entrusted by the Master. • Faithfulness meant investing, not burying; shining, not hiding. • Reward was based on stewardship, not comparison. Living It Out • Identify the “stone” the Lord has given you—skills, resources, spiritual gifts. • Let Him set that gift “in gold” by submitting it to His Word and Spirit. • Keep in view the larger breastpiece: the church. Your radiance is meant to complement others. • Aim for the commendation echoed from Exodus to Matthew: a life beautifully set, faithfully used, and wholly devoted to the glory of God. |
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