How does this verse connect to the New Testament teachings on spiritual gifts? Seeing the Verse in Context “With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen.” (Exodus 38:23) Spirit-Empowered Craftsmanship in Exodus • Earlier, God plainly says of Bezalel and Oholiab, “I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship” (Exodus 31:3). • Their artistic skill is not mere talent; it is divinely imparted. • The work serves one purpose: constructing the earthly dwelling of God among His people—the tabernacle. Bridging to the New Testament: The Same Spirit, New Gifts • 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 echoes Exodus: “There are different gifts, but the same Spirit… the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” • Just as the Spirit equipped Oholiab to build a physical sanctuary, He now equips every believer to build up Christ’s body, the church. • Romans 12:6-8; Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Peter 4:10-11 all list Spirit-given abilities—teaching, serving, giving, leading, mercy, prophecy, evangelism—functioning like “spiritual artisanship” for a living temple (1 Corinthians 3:16). Shared Purpose: Building God’s Dwelling Place • Old Covenant—Tabernacle: Crafted curtains, frames, altars. • New Covenant—Church: Crafted lives, relationships, ministries. • In both, the goal is God’s presence manifest among His people. Diversity Within Unity • Exodus highlights engraving, designing, embroidering—distinct yet complementary tasks. • 1 Corinthians 12 compares the church to a body with varied but essential parts. • Variety is God-ordained, preventing envy (Exodus artisans never compete) and promoting mutual dependence. Key Parallels at a Glance – Source: Spirit of God (Exodus 31:3) / Holy Spirit (1 Colossians 12:4). – Recipients: Select craftsmen / Every believer. – Purpose: Build tabernacle / Build church. – Visibility: Physical beauty / Spiritual edification. – Outcome: God dwells with Israel / God dwells in His people. Faithful Stewardship Today • Oholiab models humble, skillful service—no stage lights, only tabernacle lamps. • New Testament believers use gifts “for the common good” and “to serve one another” (1 Colossians 12:7; 1 Peter 4:10). • Whether your gift is craftsmanship, leadership, mercy, or teaching, the pattern remains: the Spirit supplies, we apply, and God is glorified. |
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