### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, I want to take you back to those childhood days of playing pickup games and the anxiety of waiting to be picked. Remember how it felt to be chosen or, worse, not chosen at all? This experience often mirrors our feelings about being part of God's mission. We sometimes think others are more equipped or talented, but in God's Kingdom, there are no sidelines. God, the ultimate captain, has chosen each of us for a purpose.
We are in a series called "Minor Leagues," focusing on lesser-known characters in the Bible. Today, we look at Bezalel and Oholiab from the book of Exodus. These men were chosen by God to build the Tabernacle, the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Despite their minor status, their story teaches us that everyone has a God-given purpose.
The book of Exodus details the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, including the giving of the Ten Commandments and the instructions for building the Tabernacle. While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving these instructions, the Israelites sinned by creating a golden calf. Yet, God forgave them and renewed His covenant, showing His immense grace.
When Moses came down with the instructions, he called the people to bring offerings and use their skills to build the Tabernacle. The people responded with willing hearts, bringing their resources and talents. Bezalel and Oholiab were filled with the Spirit of God, equipped with wisdom and skills to lead this monumental task.
This story is not just about ancient Israel; it’s about us today. We are now the dwelling place of God, called to build spaces where His presence can be felt. God has given each of us unique gifts and talents to serve His mission. Whether it's through craftsmanship, teaching, or hospitality, we all have a part to play.
So, how do we respond to God's call? First, we develop a heart of willingness. Second, we discover our God-given gifts. Third, we seek assistance and work together as a community. When we do this, God moves in overwhelming abundance, accomplishing more than we could ever imagine.
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Key Takeaways
- 1. Given Gifts**: Bezalel and Oholiab were filled with the Spirit of God and equipped with specific skills for their task. Similarly, God has given each of us unique gifts and talents. Discovering these gifts involves self-examination, experimentation, and evaluation. These gifts are meant to be used for God's glory and the edification of others. [41:48]
4. Seek Assistance and Work Together: God does not call us to accomplish His mission alone. Bezalel and Oholiab had a host of skilled workers to help them. In the same way, we need to seek assistance and work together as a community. This collaboration prevents burnout and ensures that the community benefits from everyone's contributions.
5. God Moves in Overwhelming Abundance: When the community responds to God's call with willingness, giftedness, and teamwork, God moves in overwhelming abundance. The Israelites brought more than enough resources to build the Tabernacle, so much so that Moses had to tell them to stop giving. This abundance is a testament to what God can do when His people come together for His mission.
### [41:48]
Youtube Chapters
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [22:31] - Childhood Memories of Being Chosen
- [24:03] - No Sidelines in God's Kingdom
- [24:52] - Introduction to Bezalel and Oholiab
- [26:12] - Setting the Stage: The Book of Exodus
- [27:57] - The Golden Calf Incident
- [29:42] - The Importance of the Tabernacle
- [31:29] - God's Instructions to Moses
- [33:18] - We Are the Tabernacle
- [35:03] - Responding to God's Call
- [36:44] - Developing a Heart of Willingness
- [38:34] - The Wave Offering
- [40:15] - Discovering Your God-Given Gifts
- [41:48] - The Role of Bezalel and Oholiab
- [45:04] - God Uses Everyone
- [50:01] - Practical Steps to Discover Your Gifts
- [51:45] - Seeking Assistance and Working Together
- [55:02] - The Abundance of God's Provision
- [57:07] - Imagining an Overwhelmed Ministry
- [58:29] - Closing Prayer
- [59:17] - Communion Preparation
- [60:51] - Taking Communion
- [63:01] - Final Prayer and Sending Out