And he has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others.
Exodus 35:34 NIV
In Exodus 35:34, we see that God did not only bestowed wisdom and skills upon Bezalel and Oholiab for constructing the tabernacle but also granted them the ability to teach. This divine act reveals a profound principle — the importance of passing on knowledge. As a Chinese proverb wisely puts it, “If you are planning for a year, sow rice; if you are planning for a decade, plant trees; if you are planning for a lifetime, educate people.” This concept extends beyond a temporary tabernacle; it’s a blueprint for a lifetime.
God’s provisions for the tabernacle included not just immediate skills but also the capacity to teach others. Regardless of our expertise, our value isn’t eternal. We should not forget that we won’t always be in demand, but our skills need not perish with us. Bezalel and Oholiab were equipped not only for their time but also for the generations to come. This reflects God’s timeless plan — an investment in skills and the ability to impart them to others.
God knew that Bezalel and Oholiab, like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, will also die one day. He also realised that if these skills would not perish with these men, if the generations to come would have access to them, then it must be passed on to others. Therefore, He gave them the capacity to teach others. God was planning for a lifetime, not just for a temporary project.
Ezra had always given his time and attention to studying and obeying the law of the LORD. He also loved to teach its rules and commandments to others in Israel.
Ezra 7:10 ERV
Drawing from Ezra, we see that an exemplary disciple is one who not only receives from God but also shares with others. This chain of learning and teaching is a model God desires. Therefore, as disciples of Christ, we are also to teach others what we have learned from God. We are not to be selfish with the gifts and talents He has given us. Instead, we are to share them with others who can benefit from them. We are to be disciple making disciples, who multiply God’s kingdom by teaching His word and His ways.
Likewise, leaders in the church, as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:2, are to be good teachers. The ability to teach is not just a gift; it’s a responsibility — a duty to pass on what they have received. A leader must be able to communicate God’s truth clearly and effectively, and to equip others to do the same. A leader must also be a lifelong learner. He must be one who is always open to grow and improve in his or her knowledge and teaching skills.
Consider the purpose of your giftedness. Are you keeping it to yourself or selflessly sharing it with others? Are you investing in the lives of others who can carry on the legacy? Also, are you learning from God and from others who can help you become a better teacher? The command to teach extends beyond mere words; it’s a call to live a life that others can learn from. Being in a position of leadership or possessing a particular gift isn’t an end in itself but a means to teach and guide others. Remember, teaching others is a lifetime investment that will bring eternal rewards.
In conclusion, God’s plan for passing on wisdom and skills isn’t confined to a specific time or generation. It’s a timeless principle — an investment in people. As recipients of God’s gifts, our duty is not only to use them but also to teach others. In doing so, we fulfil a vital part of our purpose and contribute to a legacy that extends far beyond our own lifetime.
