Exodus 31:6 – “Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you:”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Exodus 31:6 reveals that God did not just appoint Bezalel to oversee the construction of the tabernacle, but He also chose Oholiab from the tribe of Dan to assist him. This verse emphasizes the collaborative nature of the work God had planned. It wasn’t a one-man job; it required a team. God specifically appointed Oholiab and other skilled workers, giving them the ability needed to complete the tasks according to His precise instructions. This verse highlights God’s provision and organization in ensuring that His plans are carried out efficiently and effectively by a group of people working together, each using their God-given talents.

Historical Context

The construction of the tabernacle was one of the most significant tasks given to the Israelites during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It was not just a physical structure but a symbol of God’s presence among His people. The tabernacle had to be built according to the exact specifications God provided to Moses on Mount Sinai. This required not just skilled craftsmanship but also leadership and teamwork. Bezalel was appointed as the chief artisan, but the inclusion of Oholiab and other skilled workers underscores the communal effort needed to achieve this holy work. The tribe of Dan, to which Oholiab belonged, was not as prominent as Judah, but this appointment shows that God values contributions from all parts of His people.

Theological Implications

This verse has deep theological implications about God’s sovereignty in distributing gifts and roles within His people. It shows that God is intentional in His appointments and that He equips those He calls. Theologically, it also emphasizes the importance of community in doing God’s work. No one is expected to do it all alone; God provides a team, each with different skills and abilities, to work together toward a common purpose. This idea is foundational to the biblical understanding of the church as a body with many members, each with a unique role to play. God’s provision of both leaders and helpers illustrates His design for collaborative ministry.

Literary Analysis

Exodus 31:6 serves as a crucial link in the narrative of the tabernacle’s construction. The verse not only highlights the appointment of Oholiab but also mentions the broader group of skilled workers, emphasizing the collective effort required. The structure of the verse shifts from focusing on the individual (Bezalel) to the team, showing a progression from personal calling to community action. The use of the word “appointed” in reference to Oholiab mirrors the earlier appointment of Bezalel, reinforcing the theme of divine selection and commissioning. The verse also broadens the scope from specific tasks to the entire set of commands God gave Moses, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the work.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 – These verses discuss the variety of spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit to believers, echoing the distribution of skills and roles seen in Exodus 31:6.
• Exodus 35:34-35 – These verses further describe the roles of Bezalel and Oholiab, including the teaching of others, highlighting the transmission of skills within the community.
• Ephesians 4:11-12 – Paul speaks about the different roles within the church, given to equip the saints for the work of ministry, similar to how God equipped the workers for the tabernacle.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Exodus 31:6 is a reminder that God calls and equips people not just individually but also collectively. It encourages believers to appreciate the value of teamwork and community in accomplishing God’s work. This verse challenges us to recognize and support the roles of others in the body of Christ, understanding that everyone has a part to play. It also reassures us that God provides the necessary skills and abilities to complete the tasks He has given us, both as individuals and as a community. Christians are called to work together, using their diverse gifts to serve God’s purposes.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in the way He provides for His people, ensuring that they have everything they need to accomplish His will. By appointing both leaders and helpers, God shows His care for the details of the work and His desire for His people to succeed. This provision of skills and abilities to a group of people also demonstrates God’s love for community and cooperation, encouraging His people to work together in unity. God’s loving nature is evident in the way He equips and organizes His people, ensuring that everyone has a role and that no one is left out.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Exodus 31:6 connects to Jesus Christ by illustrating the principle of God appointing and equipping His people for specific tasks, a theme that is fully realized in the New Testament through the body of Christ, the church. Just as Oholiab was appointed to assist Bezalel, Jesus appointed His disciples and, later, the apostles to carry out His mission on earth. Jesus also emphasized the importance of working together, as seen in His sending out of the disciples in pairs (Luke 10:1) and His teaching on the church as a body with many parts (1 Corinthians 12). The teamwork seen in the construction of the tabernacle foreshadows the collaboration among believers that Christ calls for in His kingdom work.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does understanding that God appoints and equips people for specific roles impact your view of your own role within your church or community?
2. What steps can you take to better support and collaborate with others in accomplishing God’s work?
3. How does this verse challenge you to appreciate the contributions of those who may not be in leadership positions but are still vital to the success of a mission?
4. In what ways can you seek God’s guidance in recognizing the gifts and abilities He has given you and others in your community?

This article explores Exodus 31:6, drawing connections to its historical context, theological significance, and practical applications for today’s believers. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork, divine appointment, and the collective effort required to accomplish God’s purposes.