Exodus 36:2

Then Moses summoned Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person whom the LORD had gifted--everyone whose heart stirred him to come and do the work.

Study Bible

Then Moses summoned Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person
Moses, as the leader of the Israelites, calls upon Bezalel and Oholiab, who were specifically chosen by God for their skills in craftsmanship (Exodus 31:1-6). This highlights the importance of leadership in recognizing and mobilizing God-given talents within a community. Bezalel, from the tribe of Judah, and Oholiab, from the tribe of Dan, represent the unity of different tribes working together for a common purpose. This gathering of skilled individuals reflects the communal effort required to build the Tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey.

whom the LORD had gifted—
The phrase underscores the belief that all skills and talents are gifts from God. In the context of the Tabernacle's construction, it emphasizes divine involvement in the project, ensuring that the work is not just a human endeavor but a divinely inspired one. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). The acknowledgment of God's gifting serves as a reminder of the source of all abilities and the purpose they serve in His plans.

everyone whose heart stirred him to come and do the work.
This phrase highlights the voluntary nature of the work on the Tabernacle. It was not merely a duty but a response to an inner prompting, suggesting a heartfelt commitment to God's service. This willingness to serve is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God values the condition of the heart over mere external compliance (2 Corinthians 9:7). The stirring of the heart can be seen as a type of the work of the Holy Spirit, who moves believers to act according to God's will. This voluntary service prefigures the New Testament call for believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He acts as the mediator between God and the Israelites.

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

3. Oholiab
An assistant to Bezalel, also endowed with wisdom and skill for the work of the Tabernacle. His name means "Father's tent," symbolizing his role in constructing the dwelling place of God.

4. Skilled Persons
Individuals endowed with specific talents and skills by God to contribute to the building of the Tabernacle. Their hearts were stirred to participate in this holy work.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary constructed by the Israelites as a place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Divine Calling and Gifting
God calls and equips individuals for specific tasks within His kingdom. Recognize and embrace the unique gifts God has given you for His service.

Willingness to Serve
The heart's willingness is crucial in serving God. Be open to the stirring of your heart by the Holy Spirit to engage in the work God has prepared for you.

Unity in Diversity
Just as the construction of the Tabernacle required various skills, the body of Christ functions best when each member contributes their unique gifts in unity.

Obedience to God's Plan
The skilled workers followed God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle. Similarly, we should seek to align our actions with God's will and purpose.

The Importance of Community
The collective effort in building the Tabernacle underscores the importance of community in accomplishing God's work. Engage with your faith community to fulfill God's mission together.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can you discern the specific gifts God has given you, and how can you use them to serve your church community?

3. Reflect on a time when your heart was stirred to participate in a ministry or service. What was the outcome, and how did it impact your faith journey?

4. How can the concept of unity in diversity, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle, be applied to your local church or faith community?

5. Consider the role of obedience in fulfilling God's plans. How can you ensure that your actions align with God's instructions in your daily life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:1-6
This passage describes how God specifically chose and filled Bezalel and Oholiab with His Spirit, wisdom, and understanding for the work of the Tabernacle, highlighting the divine origin of their skills.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11
Paul speaks about the diversity of spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit for the common good, paralleling how God endowed the Israelites with specific skills for His purposes.

Romans 12:4-8
Paul discusses the various gifts within the body of Christ, emphasizing that each member has a unique role, much like the skilled workers in the construction of the Tabernacle.