We All Have a Role
The LORD told Moses in this chapter who would head-up and do the actual construction. Having given Moses all the instructions regarding what is to be built, the LORD then told Moses whom He has chosen to be the chief builder: Bezalel. The LORD’s remarks regarding this choosing are very interesting: “I have chosen Bezalel, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts. . ..”
We tend to think of someone being filled with the Spirit of God as a prophet or perhaps a leader in battle. But here it is a construction worker who is being chosen and filled with the Spirit. Bezalel is a Spirit-anointed contractor, a Spirit-empowered craftsman. That’s something to keep in mind. Preachers and prophets are not the only ones functioning under the call and authority of the Holy Spirit. The LORD has more than just preaching on His list of things that need to get done. There are tabernacles that need to be built, not just talked about.
I’m sure that when Moses heard he would not be the one doing the actual building that he let out a big sigh of relief, and perhaps the people did too. Moses had been a shepherd and he had grown up in Pharaoh’s house. Craftsmanship probably was not one of his chief skills. If the tabernacle were going to be built, it would require more than what Moses had to give. It would require people with skills that he did not possess.
But that’s how tabernacles are always built – by community rather than by individuals. And notice that this is part of the LORD’s provision and plan. God gave skills to Bezalel and company that He did not give to Moses. First Peter 4:10 comes to mind, “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”
Two things we should get from this chapter: 1. we all play an important role in Gods Kingdom. Have you considered what role (even if it’s simple) you play in God’s kingdom? 2. God gives us his Spirit and the skills to fulfill the mission he has called us to.
Pastor Travis