“And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan.”
This verse is part of the context where Moses is giving instructions to the people of Israel regarding the construction of the Tabernacle-a portable sanctuary that would serve as a place of worship and where God’s presence would dwell among His people during their journey in the wilderness.
God-Given Skills and Abilities:The verse starts by highlighting that God placed a specific skill set and ability in the heart of certain individuals. In this case, the focus is on two men: Bezalel and Aholiab. They were appointed by God to have exceptional craftsmanship and artistic abilities to work on the Tabernacle. This reminds us that every talent and ability we have comes from God, and He equips us for specific tasks according to His plan and purpose.
The Role of Aholiab:Aholiab was from the tribe of Dan, and he was chosen alongside Bezalel to oversee and teach others in the art of craftsmanship for the Tabernacle. This highlights the importance of leadership and teaching roles within the community of believers. It’s not just about doing the work; it’s also about guiding and instructing others, passing down knowledge, and encouraging spiritual growth in fellow believers.
Involvement of Various Tribes:The fact that Aholiab was from the tribe of Dan emphasizes that God’s work involves people from all walks of life. Different tribes had unique roles and contributions in the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing unity and cooperation among God’s people in fulfilling His purposes. This reminds us that diversity within the body of believers is a strength, and everyone has a part to play in God’s kingdom.
God’s Call and Preparation:Both Bezalel and Aholiab didn’t naturally possess these specific skills; rather, God put these abilities in their hearts. This emphasizes that God calls and equips individuals for specific tasks, and His empowerment is essential for the successful completion of any God-given mission. It’s not about human abilities alone, but also about relying on God’s guidance and strength.
Application in the Church Today:While this verse speaks specifically about the construction of the Tabernacle, we can draw parallels to the church and the body of Christ today. Just as God equipped Bezalel and Aholiab for their roles, God equips each believer with spiritual gifts to serve in His church. Some may have teaching gifts, some may have gifts of craftsmanship, and others may have different talents to contribute to the building of God’s kingdom on Earth.
In summary, Exodus 35:34 teaches us about God’s gifting and calling in the lives of individuals, the importance of leadership and teaching, unity in the body of believers, and the necessity of relying on God’s empowerment to fulfill His purposes. It encourages us to recognize our God-given abilities and to use them for His glory and the edification of the church.
