Exodus 36:1

"So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person are to carry out everything commanded by the LORD, who has given them skill and ability to know how to perform all the work of constructing the sanctuary."

Study Bible

So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person
Bezalel and Oholiab are specifically chosen by God for the construction of the Tabernacle. Bezalel, from the tribe of Judah, and Oholiab, from the tribe of Dan, represent the unity of Israel's tribes in this divine task. Their mention highlights the importance of God-given skills and talents in fulfilling His purposes. The inclusion of "every skilled person" emphasizes the communal effort and the diversity of gifts within the community, reflecting the New Testament teaching on the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.

are to carry out everything commanded by the LORD
This phrase underscores the importance of obedience to God's instructions. The construction of the Tabernacle was not left to human creativity but was to follow the divine blueprint given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:9). This obedience is a recurring theme in Scripture, illustrating the principle that God's work must be done in God's way.

who has given them skill and ability
The skills and abilities of Bezalel, Oholiab, and the other craftsmen are portrayed as gifts from God. This divine endowment is a reminder that all talents and abilities are ultimately sourced from God, as seen in James 1:17. It also reflects the biblical principle that God equips those He calls, as seen in the lives of figures like Moses and David.

to know how to perform all the work
The phrase indicates not just the possession of skill but the understanding and wisdom to apply it effectively. This mirrors the biblical concept of wisdom, which is more than knowledge; it is the practical application of knowledge in accordance with God's will. Proverbs 2:6 states that the Lord gives wisdom, and this wisdom is essential for carrying out His work.

of constructing the sanctuary
The sanctuary, or Tabernacle, was the dwelling place of God among His people, a precursor to the Temple in Jerusalem. It symbolizes God's desire to dwell with humanity, a theme that culminates in the incarnation of Jesus Christ (John 1:14) and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers (1 Corinthians 3:16). The construction of the sanctuary is a type of Christ, who is the ultimate meeting place between God and man.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
A skilled craftsman chosen by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. His name means "in the shadow of God," indicating divine protection and guidance.

2. Oholiab
An assistant to Bezalel, also endowed with skills for the work of the Tabernacle. His name means "father's tent," which is fitting given his role in constructing the dwelling place of God.

3. Skilled Persons
Individuals endowed by God with the necessary skills and understanding to contribute to the construction of the sanctuary. This highlights the communal effort and divine gifting involved in the project.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who commands and empowers the work of the Tabernacle, ensuring it is done according to His specifications.

5. The Sanctuary
The Tabernacle, a portable earthly dwelling place for God among the Israelites, symbolizing His presence and holiness.

Teaching Points

Divine Empowerment for Service
God equips His people with the necessary skills and understanding to fulfill His purposes. Just as Bezalel and Oholiab were given specific talents, believers today are endowed with spiritual gifts to serve the body of Christ.

Obedience to God's Command
The work on the Tabernacle was to be done "just as the LORD has commanded." This underscores the importance of adhering to God's instructions in our service and ministry.

Community in Ministry
The construction of the Tabernacle was a communal effort involving many skilled individuals. This reflects the body of Christ, where each member contributes their unique gifts for the edification of the whole.

The Presence of God
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live in a way that reflects His presence in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of Bezalel and Oholiab encourage you to use your skills and talents for God's purposes?

2. In what ways can you ensure that your work and service align with God's commands, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle?

3. How can you identify and develop the spiritual gifts God has given you, similar to how Bezalel and Oholiab were equipped for their tasks?

4. What role does community play in your spiritual life and ministry, and how can you contribute to the body of Christ with your unique skills?

5. How does understanding that you are a temple of the Holy Spirit impact the way you live and serve God daily?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:1-6
This passage provides the initial calling and equipping of Bezalel and Oholiab, emphasizing God's role in providing the necessary skills for His work.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11
This New Testament passage discusses spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit, drawing a parallel to the skills given to Bezalel and Oholiab for the work of the Tabernacle.

Ephesians 2:10
This verse speaks of believers being created for good works, which God prepared in advance, similar to how God prepared Bezalel and Oholiab for their tasks.