Exodus 35:10: “All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded:”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 35:10 is a call to action directed at the skilled individuals within the Israelite community. Moses, relaying God’s instructions, calls upon those who have specific talents and abilities to come forward and use their skills to create the items necessary for the Tabernacle. The verse emphasizes that these artisans are not merely using their talents for personal gain or recognition but are dedicating their skills to fulfilling what the Lord has commanded.
This verse underlines the importance of using one’s gifts and abilities in service to God. The construction of the Tabernacle required various skilled laborers, from craftsmen and weavers to metalworkers and woodworkers. Each person’s contribution was crucial to the completion of the Tabernacle, highlighting the value of diverse talents within the community.
Historical Context
Historically, this command comes as the Israelites are in the wilderness, having recently been freed from slavery in Egypt. They are in the process of building the Tabernacle, which will serve as the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God among them. The construction of the Tabernacle was a massive and complex task, requiring the collective efforts of many skilled individuals.
In ancient times, trades and crafts were highly valued, and those who possessed these skills played a vital role in society. In the context of the Israelites, these skills were now being redirected from serving the demands of their former Egyptian masters to serving God and their own community. This shift in purpose reflects the transformation in the lives of the Israelites as they moved from slavery to freedom and from serving man to serving God.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 35:10 teaches that God values the gifts and talents He has given to individuals and that these should be used in service to Him. This verse reminds us that all skills, whether artistic, technical, or intellectual, are given by God for a purpose. When these gifts are used according to God’s will, they become acts of worship and contribute to the fulfillment of His plans.
This verse also underscores the concept of community and collective responsibility in worship. The construction of the Tabernacle was not something that could be accomplished by one person; it required the combined efforts of many. This reflects the idea that the work of God’s kingdom involves the whole community, with each person playing a vital role.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, this verse serves as a transition from the general call for offerings to a specific call for skilled labor. The phrase “all who are skilled among you” emphasizes inclusivity, inviting everyone with the necessary abilities to contribute. The use of the word “commanded” reinforces the divine origin of the instructions, reminding the reader that the work being done is not merely a human project but a fulfillment of God’s commands.
The verse also sets the stage for the detailed descriptions that follow, where the specific tasks and materials required for the Tabernacle are outlined. This structure highlights the importance of organization and planning in carrying out God’s work.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 31:1-6 – God specifically calls Bezalel and Oholiab, filling them with the Spirit of God, to lead the craftsmanship for the Tabernacle, showing that skill and talent are gifts from God.
- 1 Chronicles 28:20-21 – David encourages Solomon and the skilled workers who were to build the temple, showing the continuity of skilled labor in God’s service.
- Romans 12:4-8 – Paul’s teaching on the different gifts within the body of Christ, emphasizing that each gift should be used for the common good and in service to God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 35:10 serves as a reminder that all skills and talents are gifts from God and should be used in His service. Whether in the church, community, or workplace, believers are called to use their abilities to contribute to God’s work. This verse encourages Christians to recognize their skills as part of God’s plan and to seek ways to use them for His glory.
This verse also challenges believers to consider how they can contribute to the collective work of the church. Just as the Israelites needed many skilled hands to build the Tabernacle, the modern church requires the diverse talents of its members to carry out its mission. Each person’s contribution is valuable and necessary for the body of Christ to function effectively.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His recognition and appreciation of the unique gifts He has given to each person. By calling the skilled artisans to work on the Tabernacle, God shows that He values their contributions and desires to involve His people in His work. This involvement in God’s work is not just a duty but a privilege, allowing individuals to participate in something greater than themselves.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 35:10 connects to Jesus Christ in that it reflects the principle of serving God with the gifts we have been given, a principle that Jesus exemplified and taught. Jesus, in His ministry, used His divine gifts to serve others and glorify the Father (John 17:4). He also called His disciples to use their talents in the service of God’s kingdom, promising that those who are faithful with what they have been given will be entrusted with more (Matthew 25:14-30).
Additionally, just as the skilled workers contributed to building a physical dwelling place for God, Christians today are called to contribute to the building of the spiritual house of God, the church, with Jesus as the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:4-5).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What skills and talents do you have that could be used in service to God and His work?
- How can you contribute to the collective mission of your church or community, using the gifts God has given you?
- In what ways does recognizing your skills as gifts from God change your perspective on how you use them?
- How can you encourage others to use their talents in service to God, contributing to the work of the church?
- How does understanding the importance of skilled labor in the construction of the Tabernacle inspire you to be more intentional in using your abilities for God’s glory?