Exodus 35:35: “He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 35:35 highlights how God endowed Bezalel, Oholiab, and other craftsmen with the skills necessary to complete the intricate work required for the Tabernacle. The verse specifically mentions their abilities in engraving, designing, embroidery, and weaving—tasks that were essential for creating the beautiful and sacred items used in the Tabernacle. These skills were not just natural talents but were given by God to fulfill His specific purposes in the construction of this holy place.
The verse underscores that the work they were called to do was diverse and required a variety of skills. Whether it was working with gold, silver, and bronze, or crafting with fine linens and yarns in various colors, each task was important and needed to be done with precision and care. This passage teaches us that God values excellence and artistry in the work done for Him, and He provides the necessary abilities to those He calls.
Historical Context
The historical context of this verse is set during the time when the Israelites were in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. God had given Moses detailed instructions for building the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where His presence would dwell among the people. The construction of the Tabernacle required various materials and a high level of craftsmanship. God specifically chose Bezalel and Oholiab to lead this work, and He filled them with the Holy Spirit, granting them the wisdom and skills necessary to accomplish the task.
The tasks mentioned—engraving, designing, embroidering, and weaving—were critical in creating the items used in worship and in the Tabernacle itself. The blue, purple, and scarlet yarns and fine linen mentioned in the verse were used in the making of the priestly garments, the curtains of the Tabernacle, and other sacred items, all of which had to be crafted according to God’s exact specifications.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 35:35 teaches that God equips His people with the skills and abilities needed to accomplish His purposes. The craftsmanship mentioned in this verse was essential for the proper worship of God, demonstrating that God values beauty and order in worship. This verse reminds us that our skills and talents are not just for our benefit but are gifts from God to be used in service to Him and others.
This passage also emphasizes the importance of doing our work with excellence, especially when it is done in service to God. The detailed work required for the Tabernacle was a form of worship, reflecting the glory and majesty of God. This challenges us to approach our own work, whether in ministry, our jobs, or our creative endeavors, with the same level of dedication and care.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, this verse is part of the larger narrative that describes the construction of the Tabernacle and the roles of those involved. The verse specifically lists the various crafts and skills required, emphasizing the diversity and complexity of the work. The repetition of the idea that God filled these craftsmen with skill highlights that their abilities were not self-generated but were a direct result of God’s empowerment.
The mention of specific materials—blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen—adds richness to the text, reminding readers of the beauty and significance of the items being crafted. The craftsmanship described here is not just about functionality but about creating something that reflects the holiness and splendor of God.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 31:3-5 – The initial account of God filling Bezalel with the Spirit of God, granting him wisdom, understanding, and skills for all kinds of crafts.
- 1 Kings 7:13-14 – The account of Hiram, a craftsman who worked on Solomon’s Temple, showing the ongoing importance of skilled artisans in the service of God.
- 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 – Paul’s teaching on spiritual gifts, highlighting that God gives different gifts to different people for the common good, reflecting the diversity of skills given to Bezalel and Oholiab.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 35:35 serves as a powerful reminder that the skills and talents we possess are gifts from God, meant to be used for His glory and purposes. Whether we are skilled in the arts, crafts, teaching, or any other field, we are called to use our abilities in a way that honors God. This verse encourages us to strive for excellence in all that we do, recognizing that our work, when done for the Lord, is a form of worship.
This verse also challenges us to recognize and appreciate the diverse talents within the church and our communities. Just as Bezalel and Oholiab were essential for the construction of the Tabernacle, the various skills and gifts within the body of Christ are crucial for building up the church and advancing God’s kingdom.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in the way He equips His people to serve Him. By giving Bezalel, Oholiab, and others the skills they needed, God showed His care and provision for the work He had called them to do. God’s involvement in the details of the Tabernacle’s construction demonstrates His desire for excellence and beauty in worship, reflecting His own character. This provision also shows that God’s love extends to every aspect of our lives, including our work and creativity.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 35:35 connects to Jesus Christ in that the skills and craftsmanship given to Bezalel and Oholiab point to the greater work of Christ, who is the ultimate builder of God’s house. Just as the Tabernacle was constructed with care and precision, Jesus builds His church with care, using the diverse gifts and talents of His followers (Ephesians 2:19-22).
Moreover, the beauty and craftsmanship of the Tabernacle foreshadow the beauty of Christ’s redemptive work. The detailed work required for the Tabernacle reflects the detailed and perfect plan of salvation that Jesus accomplished through His life, death, and resurrection. Jesus, the master craftsman, is building a spiritual house where God’s presence dwells among His people.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the example of Bezalel and Oholiab challenge you to use your skills and talents for God’s purposes?
- In what ways can you strive for excellence in your work, recognizing it as a form of worship to God?
- How does this verse influence your understanding of the importance of diverse skills and talents within the church?
- What are some practical ways you can encourage and support the creative and artistic gifts in your community?
- How does Jesus’ role as the builder of God’s house inspire you to contribute to the work of building up His church?