“See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship” (Ex. 31:2–3).
Exodus 31:1–11 is fraught with possible symbolism. For example, the artisans worked with: gold, which may symbolize divine glory; silver, which may represent redemption, for the Son alone is qualified to “work in silver;” and with brass, which may be a symbol of divine judgment. The text is pregnant with symbolism of Christ and His church. Today, however, we will focus on the practical implications of the passage instead of dwelling on its symbolic nature.
The first practical lesson we pull from the text is that those who are called to divine service do not come of their own decision, but of the sovereign will of God. This is true of all believers—only those called of the Father will be saved. And this is true of ministers of the Gospel. They do not run ahead without being sent, they do not step forward in service without being called. To presume the task of ministry without being called of God is to be a rebel, not a servant. Christ Himself, though acting voluntarily in His redemptive service, was appointed by the Father, not by Himself. To often, people are attracted to the prestige, honor and power of “service,” and they step into positions in which they do not belong. A. W. Pink rightly comments, “Fearful presumption and sin is it for any man to profess to speak in the name of Christ if he has received no call from Him.”
We can identify those whom God has called by their spiritual qualifications. This goes far beyond talents, and includes primarily the graces of knowledge, wisdom, compassion and humility. When God calls a man or woman to service, He fills him or her with His Spirit. Colleges, seminaries, and parachurch ministries cannot impart the spiritual gifts of understanding and wisdom. Only the Spirit of God can endow people with gifts of ministry.
Lastly, God’s servants act according to God’s instructions and purposes, not according to their own. They do things God’s way and by God’s prescription, not according to their own imaginations and inventions. Moses did not employ all his Egyptian learning to build the tabernacle, but followed God’s commands precisely. Those who are true servants of God build up the church God’s way. Obedience, therefore, is integral to worthy service. When the Scriptures speak to a matter, we must obey. Anything else is sin.
What are some qualifications for those who are called to serve in Christ’s church? Can just anyone preach, teach, or do mission work? What is the importance of sound doctrine to service? What is the importance of personal godliness in church work? Pray for the church, for leaders called of God, that they will serve His way.
