By Stephen F. Olford
The writer to the Hebrews tells us that the tabernacle in the wilderness was "a shadow of heavenly things" (
8:5). Ultimately, it was designed to witness to the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, and Sovereign. It is not without significance, therefore, that God chose consecrated workmen to erect the tabernacle.
In this passage we have the story of the appointing and anointing of Bezaleel and Aholiab for this stupendous task. What God expected of these two men is what He demands of us today, if we would be living tabernacles for the display of the Savior's glory in the wilderness of a modern world. Notice, in the first place,
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I. How God Appoints His Workmen
"... the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 'See, I have called by name Bezaleel ... of the tribe of Judah.... I have appointed with him Aholiab ... of the tribe of Dan' ..." (
vv. 1, 2, 6). Consecrated workmen do not simply emerge; they are appointed of God. The verses before us clearly reveal the method of God's appointment.
Bezaleel and Aholiab were sovereignly appointed by God. "Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 'See, I have called by name Bazaleel;" and again: "... I have appointed with him Aholiab ..." (
vv. 1, 3, 6). Moses was informed of the divine call, but otherwise had no part in it whatsoever, nor did Aaron; the appointment was entirely by God's sovereign choice.
Bezaleel was the grandson of Hur of the tribe of Judah, and since it is generally assumed that Hur was the husband of Miriam it follows that Bezaleel would have made it appear that he was taking honor to himself or his own family, but all these difficulties were obviated by the sovereign choice of God.
Aholiab on the other hand, was of the tribe of Dan, which was one of the less honorable tribes. In choosing this man God demonstrated that He is no respecter of persons. He can use whom He will -- whether he is born of the favored tribe of Judah or Levi, or the less distinguished tribe of Dan.
How wonderful to know that God calls us by name. He knows our backgrounds, our dispositions, our propensities as well as our potentialities. In His grace and goodness He says to you and me: "I have called you by name. I want to separate you unto the work for which I have called you." Have you heard His call? And even more important, have you responded?
Bezaleel and Aholiab were suitably appointed by God -- "Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 'See, I have called by name Bezeleel ...';" and again: "... I have appointed with him Aholiab ..." (
vv. 1, 2, 6). Apparently Bezaleel was to be the architect or master workman, and Aholiab was to serve under Bezaleel as "... an engraver and designer, a weaver ..."(
38:23).