Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 35:31 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 35:31 is a remarkable verse that speaks about the divine empowerment of Bezalel, one of the key craftsmen responsible for building the Tabernacle. This passage is not only significant for its historical context but also for the timeless principles it reveals about God’s provision, the use of spiritual gifts, and the importance of craftsmanship in God’s service. In this article, we will explore the context, meaning, applications, and relevance of Exodus 35:31, as well as offer comparisons with other biblical texts that deepen our understanding.
The Context of Exodus 35:31 (KJV)
Exodus 35:31 occurs in the midst of the detailed instructions given to the Israelites regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place where God would manifest His presence among them. The verse states:
“And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.”
This verse specifically focuses on Bezalel, a skilled craftsman chosen by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. In Exodus 31:1-6, God had already identified Bezalel as a man of exceptional ability, filled with the Spirit of God to carry out the detailed work of the Tabernacle. Exodus 35:31 provides a more explicit explanation of how Bezalel was equipped with the spiritual gifts necessary for this divine task.
In the broader context, Moses is rallying the Israelites to contribute both materially and in terms of skills toward the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:4-29). Following these instructions, Moses appoints Bezalel, and later Oholiab, to lead the artistic and craftsmanship work required. Bezalel’s divine anointing is highlighted in Exodus 35:30-35, where Moses calls upon him and others to use their God-given abilities to carry out the intricate work.
Thus, Exodus 35:31 marks the empowerment of Bezalel, who is endowed with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and craftsmanship to create a sanctuary worthy of the presence of God. It signifies the importance of both spiritual and practical wisdom in fulfilling God’s call.
The Role of Bezalel
Bezalel’s role in Exodus 35:31 is a pivotal one. He is tasked with creating the sacred furnishings, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and the Tabernacle itself. His ability to execute such detailed and holy work required not only skill in craftsmanship but also divine inspiration. The Spirit of God filled him to ensure that his work was done according to God’s specifications and for His glory.
The Meaning of Exodus 35:31
Exodus 35:31 speaks to the divine empowerment of a chosen individual for a specific task. It emphasizes that wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and skill in craftsmanship are not merely human abilities but can be gifts from God, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The verse illustrates that God’s work requires more than just human effort; it requires divine wisdom and understanding.
Divine Empowerment
The phrase “filled him with the Spirit of God” indicates that Bezalel’s abilities were not just a result of natural talent but a spiritual anointing that enabled him to perform tasks that were both artistic and sacred. In the Old Testament, the Spirit of God would come upon certain individuals to equip them for specific tasks, and this passage demonstrates how the Spirit empowered Bezalel in wisdom, understanding, and knowledge.
In the New Testament, believers are also filled with the Holy Spirit, but the Spirit works in a more universal and permanent way, gifting every believer with spiritual abilities for service (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). Exodus 35:31 provides an early model of the spiritual anointing of individuals for specific tasks within the body of believers, a concept that the New Testament expounds upon.
The Role of Wisdom, Understanding, and Knowledge
In Exodus 35:31, the specific attributes given to Bezalel are wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. These qualities are foundational to successful and meaningful work in God’s kingdom. Wisdom refers to the practical application of knowledge, understanding involves comprehending the purpose and details of the task, and knowledge relates to the intellectual grasp of the necessary skills and concepts. All of these attributes are necessary for fulfilling God’s commands and contributing to His kingdom, whether in crafting sacred objects, teaching His Word, or serving others.
Craftsmanship and God’s Glory
While Bezalel’s work was undoubtedly intricate, it was not only about skill or artistry—it was about fulfilling God’s command to build a Tabernacle that would house His presence. Exodus 35:31 underscores the idea that skilled craftsmanship, when done for the glory of God, is an act of worship. God values excellence in all that we do, and the work of Bezalel is a reflection of that. It shows that artistry and craftsmanship are valid expressions of faith and devotion to God.
Exodus 35:31 Application in Life
The lessons from Exodus 35:31 extend beyond the construction of the Tabernacle. This verse offers practical and spiritual applications for modern believers, particularly in the areas of vocational calling, spiritual gifts, and the importance of excellence in service to God.
Embracing God’s Calling and Spiritual Gifts
Like Bezalel, many Christians are called to specific tasks that require particular skills, talents, and spiritual gifts. Whether a believer is called to be a teacher, a physician, an artist, a musician, or a parent, the principle in Exodus 35:31 applies: God empowers His people with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge to fulfill their callings.
Just as Bezalel was specifically gifted by God for the task at hand, each Christian is equipped with spiritual gifts for the building of God’s kingdom (Romans 12:6-8). Whether those gifts are practical, like teaching or administration, or creative, like music or art, they are given by God for His glory.
Excellence in Work for God’s Glory
Exodus 35:31 teaches that all work done in God’s name should be done excellently. In the modern world, this is particularly relevant in every form of work—whether in ministry, business, or even domestic life. The ability to work with excellence honors God, and it reflects His character. For instance, Christians in the workplace are called to perform their jobs with integrity, wisdom, and excellence, as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23).
When Christians embrace their God-given gifts and apply them with skill and excellence, they reflect the glory of God. Whether building a church, composing music, teaching children, or serving in any other capacity, the work is an expression of worship.
Using Spiritual Gifts in Service to Others
Bezalel’s work was not only for his own benefit or for the benefit of the Israelites but for the glory of God and the good of the people. This points to the principle that spiritual gifts are given for the edification of the body of Christ (1 Peter 4:10). As Bezalel used his skills for the construction of a holy space, Christians are called to use their gifts and talents for the service of others and the advancement of God’s kingdom.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
Exodus 35:31 can be compared to several other biblical passages that emphasize divine empowerment, the use of spiritual gifts, and the role of craftsmanship in God’s work.
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
In 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Paul writes about the diversity of spiritual gifts within the body of Christ. Just as Bezalel was filled with the Spirit of God to accomplish a specific task, Paul emphasizes that the Holy Spirit equips each believer with unique gifts for the common good. The gifts mentioned by Paul, such as wisdom, knowledge, and craftsmanship, closely parallel those given to Bezalel. In both the Old and New Testaments, the Holy Spirit equips believers with the gifts they need to serve God’s purpose in their lives.
Exodus 31:3-5
Exodus 31:3-5 expands upon the spiritual anointing of Bezalel. It states that God filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all manner of craftsmanship. These qualities were essential for carrying out the intricate work of building the Tabernacle and its furnishings. This passage, when compared with Exodus 35:31, provides a deeper understanding of God’s equipping of His servants for specific purposes.
Colossians 3:23-24
In Colossians 3:23-24, Paul instructs believers to work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men. He affirms that whatever task is undertaken, it should be done with excellence and a heart of service to God. This passage reflects the same principle of giving one’s best in service, which is seen in the craftsmanship of Bezalel. Christians are to approach their work, whether secular or sacred, with the same dedication and excellence that Bezalel showed in building the Tabernacle.
Modern-Day Relevance
Exodus 35:31 has significant relevance for contemporary Christians, especially in the context of spiritual gifting, vocational calling, and excellence in work. Today, many believers are involved in creative, artistic, and technical vocations that require special skills and abilities. This verse reminds us that God can empower His people to excel in these areas, just as He did with Bezalel.
In a world that often downplays the value of certain vocations or crafts, Exodus 35:31 affirms that all work done with skill and for God’s glory is sacred. Whether one is an artist, a business leader, a teacher, or a stay-at-home parent, the use of one’s gifts for God’s glory is valuable and significant. Additionally, this verse underscores the importance of utilizing the Holy Spirit’s guidance to excel in one’s work, always seeking to honor God in the process.
Conclusion
Exodus 35:31 is a profound passage that teaches us about God’s empowering presence in the lives of His people. Through the example of Bezalel, we learn that spiritual gifts are given for the purpose of serving God’s kingdom, and that excellence in craftsmanship, service, and work brings glory to God. Just as Bezalel was filled with the Spirit of God to accomplish a divine task, so too are modern believers empowered to use their gifts and skills for God’s purposes. The application of this verse in the modern world calls for Christians to embrace their callings, seek excellence, and offer their work as an act of worship to the Lord.
Exodus 35:31 Commentary
Exodus 35:31 highlights a beautiful and powerful truth: God equips His people with the necessary tools, wisdom, and knowledge to accomplish His work. Bezalel’s example serves as a reminder that work done for the Lord is never mundane or insignificant. The spiritual anointing given to Bezalel is a precedent for all believers, illustrating that God’s calling is often accompanied by divine provision for the task. The passage also shows that craftsmanship and artistry are part of God’s work, and excellence in these areas is as much a form of worship as preaching, teaching, or prayer.
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