What is the meaning of Exodus 31:6? Moreover, I have selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, as his assistant God’s choice of Oholiab underscores that divine calling is not limited to any single tribe or background. Earlier, the LORD singled out Bezalel from Judah (Exodus 31:2-3), yet here He reaches into Dan to supply a complementary helper. - This pairing models the way the body of Christ functions with varied members, as Paul later highlights in 1 Corinthians 12:18-21. - Oholiab’s appointment affirms that ministry involves teamwork; even Moses needed Aaron (Exodus 4:14-16), and Bezalel needed Oholiab. - Scripture later repeats Oholiab’s name to emphasize God’s endorsement (Exodus 35:34), reminding us that every servant known by heaven is significant, even if less famous on earth. I have also given skill to all the craftsmen The LORD is the source of every ability. He does not merely command excellence; He supplies it. - Bezalel, Oholiab, and “all the craftsmen” receive their artistry from God, paralleling how the Spirit later empowered Hiram of Tyre for Solomon’s temple work (1 Kings 7:13-14). - This gifting extends beyond leaders to “all,” echoing Romans 12:6-8, where every believer receives grace-gifts for service. - Because the talent is God-given, the work cannot be divorced from worship; skill becomes an act of praise (Colossians 3:23-24). That they may fashion all that I have commanded you The end goal is obedience. Skill without submission would miss the mark. - The craftsmen’s task list—tabernacle, ark, furnishings, garments—comes straight from God’s blueprints (Exodus 25-30). Their creativity operates within clear revelation, much like Noah building the ark “according to all that God had commanded him” (Genesis 6:22). - The phrase ties skill to stewardship; talents are entrusted for specific kingdom purposes, a truth Jesus later teaches through the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30). - Successful completion ensures the tabernacle becomes the meeting place where God dwells among His people (Exodus 29:45-46), pointing ahead to Christ, “the Word who became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14). summary Exodus 31:6 reveals a God who calls people by name, equips them with Spirit-breathed abilities, and directs those abilities toward obedient service. Oholiab’s selection shows that every tribe and person matters; the shared gifting of all craftsmen highlights God as the fountain of skill; and the purpose clause roots every talent in fulfilling divine command. When we recognize our abilities as gifts to advance God’s revealed will, we walk in the same pattern set at the foot of Sinai. |
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