In Moses’ day God intended his people to have a tabernacle, a sanctuary, where he would dwell among them. God could have brought it into existence instantaneously by simply speaking the word. But he determined that man should do the work.
When God told Moses the plan, he had already chosen Bezalel, filled him with the Holy Spirit, equipped him with “skill, ability and knowledge,” to be the lead builder. God had also appointed Oholiab and prepared him to be Bezalel’s associate. And then there were craftsmen, probably many of them, whom God had already trained. These were the men through whom God worked to provide the sanctuary.
Jesus made a promise to the disciples on which he and believers are still working. He said, “I will build my church.” Paul repeatedly identified the church as being the body of Christ that includes all who believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord. Just before he ascended to heaven, Jesus put his disciples to work. He charged his disciples with the work of making more disciples throughout the world.
Jesus is building his church, expanding his body. He involves all believers in the work. As God did in Moses’ time, Jesus chooses and equips some individuals for special service. “ So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Ephesians 4:11–12, NIV).
The building of the tabernacle is a work completed. The building of the church is a work in progress. By working through faithful believers, Jesus is growing his body.
“How I praise Thee, precious Savior, that Thy love laid hold of me; Thou hast saved and cleansed and filled me that I might Thy channel be. Channels only, blessed Master, but with all Thy wondrous pow’r flowing thro’ us, Thou canst use us ev‘ry day and ev‘ry hour” (“Channels Only” by Mary E. Maxwell).
Donald E. Wrigley, Dowling Park, Fla.
Extended Scripture: Exodus 31–32 (NIV)
