Exodus 37: Bezalel Constructs the Ark of covenant

Introduction: The book of Exodus 37 is a remarkable chapter that showcases divine craftsmanship, demonstrating how God’s detailed instruction led to the creation of sacred artifacts for the Tabernacle. It emphasizes the role of Bezalel, a spirit-filled artist endowed with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in various crafts, delineating a blueprint of how our skills can be God-inspired and used for His glory.

I. Bezalel and God-Inspired Craftsmanship (Exodus 37:1-9)

God called Bezalel to use his skills to construct the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 37:1-2). His craftsmanship wasn’t just about skill but also about obedience to God’s specific instructions. The spiritual parallel can be found in Ephesians 2:10, where we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that He has prepared for us.

II. Detailed Work on the Table for the Showbread (Exodus 37:10-16)

Bezalel applied his craftsmanship in the making of the Table for the Showbread following God’s precise instructions (Exodus 37:10-16). The detailed work on the Table reminds us of Solomon’s wisdom in building the temple (1 Kings 6:18), pointing out that every detail matters to God.

III. The Crafting of the Lampstand (Exodus 37:17-24)

The lampstand, fashioned out of pure gold, was a testament to Bezalel’s obedience and God’s design (Exodus 37:17-24). This serves as a reminder of the role of believers as light of the world, to shine brightly for God’s glory (Matthew 5:14).

IV. The Golden Altar and Anointing Oil (Exodus 37:25-29)

The making of the golden altar and anointing oil underscored the consecration and sanctification process in worship (Exodus 37:25-29). It is a reflection of 1 Peter 2:5 where believers are called to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices to God.

V. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Divine Craftsmanship (Exodus 31:3)

Bezalel’s craftsmanship was not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of God (Exodus 31:3). This mirrors Zechariah 4:6, emphasizing that we must rely on God’s Spirit in employing our gifts for His purpose.

VI. Craftsmanship as a Form of Worship (Exodus 36:1)

The detailed work in Exodus 37 was a form of worship, as Bezalel and his assistants were using their skills for God’s service (Exodus 36:1). This parallels Romans 12:1, where believers are urged to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice to God.

Conclusion: Exodus 37 provides a profound illustration of how our skills and talents can be used to glorify God. The inspiring craftsmanship in this chapter is a testament to the value of obedience, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the beauty of serving God with our gifts and talents. It encourages us to see our skills not just as a means to an end, but as a form of worship, a way to serve God and others, and a platform to manifest His glory.