Celebrating Craftsmanship: Why It's Okay to Be Known for Your Creative Gifts
"In the beginning, God created..."—these are the first five words of the Bible, and they set the stage for everything that follows. The very first glimpse we get of God is as a creator, the ultimate craftsman. He shaped the heavens, the earth, and all that fills them, speaking life into existence with unparalleled creativity and precision. This creative act is not just a historical event; it’s a reflection of who God is. And when we read that we are made in His image, it means that creativity is not just a skill—it's a divine attribute.
As people created in God’s image, we too are called to create, to craft, and to bring beauty into the world. This is not only a gift but also a responsibility. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals who were recognized for their creative talents. Take Bezalel and Oholiab, for instance. In Exodus 31, God specifically calls these two craftsmen by name. They were filled with the Spirit of God, endowed with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge to create art and structures that would be used to glorify God in the tabernacle. Their work was not only acknowledged but also celebrated as an essential part of advancing God's kingdom.
Similarly, consider Noah, another craftsman chosen by God. His construction of the ark was not merely a feat of engineering but a profound act of faith and obedience. Through his craftsmanship, Noah played a pivotal role in preserving life and fulfilling God’s plan. These examples show us that craftsmanship and creativity are not just talents—they are divine callings.
So, why is it okay to be proud of your work? Because when you create, you are reflecting the image of God. Your craftsmanship, whether it’s designing a church logo, creating a powerful video, or composing a moving piece of music, is a way of participating in God’s creative work. It’s a way to serve Him, advance His kingdom, and inspire others.
The Churchies is more than just an awards program; it’s a platform to recognize and celebrate the creative gifts that God has placed in His people. It’s a way to honor those who use their talents to glorify God and to encourage others to share in that beauty. By entering, you’re not just showcasing your work—you’re allowing others to witness the impact of God’s creativity in you.
So, be proud of your work. Enter The Churchies, and let others see how your creativity can advance the Kingdom of God, just like Bezalel, Oholiab, and Noah did. Your craftsmanship matters, and it deserves to be celebrated.
As we reflect on the importance of creativity and craftsmanship in the Bible, it’s inspiring to see just how many individuals were called by God to use their talents in significant ways. Below is a list of biblical figures who were recognized for their creative contributions. These men and women demonstrate that craftsmanship, whether in building, writing, or artistry, has always played a crucial role in advancing God’s kingdom. Their work serves as a reminder that your creative gifts are valuable and worthy of celebration.
God (Genesis 1-2) - The ultimate creator of the heavens, the earth, and all living things. (Duh)
Adam (Genesis 2:15, 20) - The first human, given the task of naming the animals and tending the Garden of Eden. The act of naming carries significant creative power. In many cultures, to name something is to give it identity and purpose. Adam’s role in naming the animals was a creative act that gave each creature its unique identity within the world. This reflects the idea that creativity is not just about making things; it’s about giving meaning and purpose to the things we create.
Noah (Genesis 6-9) - Built the ark, a massive feat of engineering and craftsmanship to preserve life during the flood.
Bezalel (Exodus 31:1-5) - Appointed by God as the chief craftsman for the Tabernacle, skilled in working with gold, silver, bronze, and other materials.
Oholiab (Exodus 31:6) - Assisted Bezalel in crafting the Tabernacle, also gifted in craftsmanship and teaching others.
Moses (Exodus 24:12-18) - While primarily known as a leader and prophet, Moses also created the first written version of the Law (the Ten Commandments).
David (1 Chronicles 22:1-5, Psalms) - Planned and gathered materials for the construction of the Temple, and also composed many Psalms.
Solomon (1 Kings 6-7) - Built the First Temple in Jerusalem and authored several books of wisdom (Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon).
Hiram of Tyre (1 Kings 7:13-14) - A skilled craftsman from Tyre, who worked on the bronze work of Solomon's Temple.
Ezra (Ezra 7-10) - A scribe who played a key role in the restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem after the exile. Copywriting as a creative skill.
Nehemiah (Nehemiah 2-6) - Led the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem, organizing the people and overseeing the construction.
Nehemiah’s Builders (Nehemiah 3) - Various families and groups who participated in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.
Jubal (Genesis 4:21) - The father of all who play stringed instruments and pipes, contributing to the musical arts. Jubal is often regarded as the first musician in the Bible, credited with the creation and development of musical instruments such as stringed instruments and pipes. This pioneering role in music places him at the origin of one of humanity’s most enduring and influential art forms.
Tubal-Cain (Genesis 4:22) - A forger of all kinds of tools out of bronze and iron, representing the advancement of metallurgy and technology.
Lydia (Acts 16:14) - A seller of purple cloth, involved in the textile industry. Lydia is described in Acts 16:14 as "a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira." Purple cloth was a luxury item in the ancient world, often associated with royalty, wealth, and status due to the costly and labor-intensive process required to produce it. The dye used for this cloth came from the murex shellfish, and the process of extracting and applying the dye was highly specialized.
Paul (Acts 18:3, Epistles) - A tentmaker by trade, creating practical goods for his livelihood.
Dorcas (Tabitha) (Acts 9:36-39) - Known for making clothing and other garments to serve others in her community.
Luke (Gospel of Luke, Acts) - The author of the Gospel of Luke and Acts, contributing to the written and historical record of the early church.
Jesus (Mark 6:3) - Referred to as a carpenter, indicating that He worked with wood and stone, likely creating furniture, tools, or structures.
Apollos (Acts 18:24-28) - Known for his eloquence and skill in teaching, creatively presenting the gospel.
Joseph (Matthew 13:55) - Jesus's earthly father, a carpenter by trade, emphasizing the value of skilled manual labor.
Joshua (Joshua 4) - Led the Israelites to build a memorial with stones from the Jordan River to commemorate their crossing into the Promised Land.
Gideon (Judges 6) - Built an altar to the Lord after encountering the Angel of the Lord.
Bezaleel’s Apprentices (Exodus 35:30-35) - Other skilled workers involved in the construction of the Tabernacle, taught by Bezalel and Oholiab.