Skillfulness, as depicted in the Bible, is a valued attribute that encompasses a range of abilities, talents, and wisdom granted by God for the purpose of fulfilling His divine plans. It is often associated with craftsmanship, leadership, and the execution of tasks with excellence and precision.

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, skillfulness is prominently highlighted in the context of craftsmanship and artistry. One of the most notable examples is found in the construction of the Tabernacle. God endowed Bezalel and Oholiab with exceptional skill to carry out the intricate work required for the Tabernacle and its furnishings. Exodus 31:3-5 states, "And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft."

Skillfulness is also evident in the leadership and governance of King Solomon. Solomon's wisdom and understanding were gifts from God, enabling him to rule Israel with discernment and justice. In 1 Kings 4:29-30 , it is written, "And God gave Solomon wisdom, exceedingly deep insight, and understanding beyond measure, like the sand on the seashore. Solomon’s wisdom was greater than that of all the men of the East, greater than all the wisdom of Egypt."

New Testament References

In the New Testament, skillfulness is often associated with spiritual gifts and the effective use of these gifts within the body of Christ. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the diversity of gifts and the importance of using them skillfully for the edification of the church. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 , Paul writes, "There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good."

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 further illustrates the concept of skillfulness in the use of God-given abilities. The servants who skillfully invested their talents were commended and rewarded, while the one who failed to use his talent was rebuked. This parable underscores the expectation that believers should employ their skills and resources wisely and diligently in service to God.

Theological Implications

Skillfulness is seen as a divine endowment, a reflection of God's own creativity and order. It is not merely a human achievement but a stewardship responsibility. Believers are called to develop and use their skills for God's glory, recognizing that these abilities are gifts from the Creator. Proverbs 22:29 highlights the value of skillfulness: "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men."

In the biblical worldview, skillfulness is intertwined with wisdom and understanding, often requiring a heart aligned with God's purposes. It is through skillfulness that individuals can contribute to the flourishing of their communities and the advancement of God's kingdom on earth.8395. tebusah -- a treading down, ruin, downfall
... Word Origin from bus Definition a treading down, ruin, downfall NASB Word Usage
destruction (1). discretion, reason, skillfulness, understanding, wisdom. ...
/hebrew/8395.htm - 6k

1 Thessalonians iv. 13
... find it, we may not be angry and take offense, but discreetly withdrawing and checking
our reasoning, we may take refuge in the power and skillfulness of God. ...
/.../homily vii 1 thessalonians iv.htm

Skillfulness (2 Occurrences)
...Skillfulness (2 Occurrences). Psalms 78:72 So he was their shepherd according to
the integrity of his heart, and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. ...
/s/skillfulness.htm - 7k

Skill (26 Occurrences)
... Version). Skillfulness (Psalm 78:72) is used with reference to the hands, not
only in their work, but also in guiding (as, eg, a pilot). ...
/s/skill.htm - 19k

Skillfully (12 Occurrences)

/s/skillfully.htm - 10k

Tended (7 Occurrences)
... (See NIV). Psalms 78:72 So he was their shepherd according to the integrity of his
heart, and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. (See RSV). ...
/t/tended.htm - 8k

Skills (1 Occurrence)

/s/skills.htm - 6k

Skilful (38 Occurrences)
... Version). Skillfulness (Psalm 78:72) is used with reference to the hands, not
only in their work, but also in guiding (as, eg, a pilot). ...
/s/skilful.htm - 21k

Labored (35 Occurrences)
... Ecclesiastes 2:21 For there is a man whose labor is with wisdom, with knowledge,
and with skillfulness; yet he shall leave it for his portion to a man who has ...
/l/labored.htm - 17k

Skillful (42 Occurrences)
... (WEB NAS NIV). Psalms 78:72 So he was their shepherd according to the integrity
of his heart, and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. ...
/s/skillful.htm - 19k

Integrity (46 Occurrences)
... Psalms 78:72 So he was their shepherd according to the integrity of his
heart, and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. ...
/i/integrity.htm - 22k

Guided (86 Occurrences)
... Psalms 78:72 So he was their shepherd according to the integrity of his heart, and
guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. (WEB KJV ASV WBS NAS RSV). ...
/g/guided.htm - 31k

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