Definition and Overview:
Spiritual craftsmanship refers to the God-given ability and calling to create, design, and build with skill and purpose, often for the glory of God and the edification of His people. This concept is rooted in the biblical understanding that God is the ultimate Creator, and humans, made in His image, are endowed with creative abilities to reflect His glory through their work.

Biblical Foundations:
The Bible provides several examples of spiritual craftsmanship, particularly in the context of constructing sacred spaces and objects for worship. One of the most prominent examples is the construction of the Tabernacle, where God specifically appointed skilled artisans to carry out His instructions.

Bezalel and Oholiab:
In Exodus 31:1-6, God calls Bezalel and Oholiab to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. The passage states, "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 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. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to assist him. I have also given skill to all the craftsmen, that they may fashion all that I have commanded you.'"

This passage highlights several key aspects of spiritual craftsmanship:
· Divine Calling and Equipping: Bezalel and Oholiab were chosen by God and filled with His Spirit, emphasizing that true craftsmanship is a divine calling and is empowered by God.
· Wisdom and Understanding: The artisans were endowed with wisdom and understanding, indicating that spiritual craftsmanship involves not only technical skill but also insight and discernment.
· Diverse Skills: The craftsmen were skilled in various materials and techniques, reflecting the diversity of gifts and talents within the body of Christ.

The Temple of Solomon:
Another significant example is the construction of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 7:13-14, Hiram of Tyre is described as a skilled craftsman: "Now King Solomon sent to bring Huram from Tyre. He was a widow’s son from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, a craftsman in bronze. Huram was filled with wisdom, understanding, and skill to do all kinds of bronze work. So he came to King Solomon and performed all his work."

Hiram's role in building the Temple underscores the importance of craftsmanship in creating spaces for worship and the presence of God.

New Testament Perspective:
While the New Testament does not focus on physical craftsmanship to the same extent as the Old Testament, the concept of building and creating is applied metaphorically to the spiritual life and the church. In Ephesians 2:10, Paul writes, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." Here, believers are described as God's workmanship, indicating that spiritual craftsmanship extends to the formation of character and the building up of the church.

Application in the Church:
Spiritual craftsmanship today can be seen in various forms, including the creation of art, music, literature, and architecture that glorifies God. It also encompasses the development of ministries and programs that build up the body of Christ. Believers are encouraged to use their God-given talents and skills to serve the church and the world, reflecting the creativity and excellence of the Creator.

Conclusion:
Spiritual craftsmanship is a vital aspect of the Christian life, demonstrating the intersection of divine calling, human creativity, and the pursuit of excellence for the glory of God. Through the examples of Bezalel, Oholiab, and Hiram, as well as the broader biblical narrative, believers are reminded of their role as co-creators with God, called to build and create in ways that honor Him and serve His purposes.