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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 39:32–43. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Observe here, I. The builders of the tabernacle made very good despatch. It was not much more than five months from the beginning to the finishing of it. Though there was a great deal of fine work about it, such as is usually the work of time, embroidering and engraving, not only in gold, but in precious stones, yet they went through with it in a little time. Church-work is usually slow work, but they made quick work of this, and yet did it with the greatest exactness imaginable. For, 1. Many hands were employed, all unanimous, and not striving with each other. This expedited the business, and made it easy. 2. The workmen were taught of God, and so were kept from making blunders, which would have retarded them. 3. The people were hearty and zealous in the work, and impatient till it was finished. God had prepared their hearts, and then the thing was done suddenly, Ch2 29:36. Resolution and industry, and a cheerful application of mind, will, by the grace of God, bring a great deal of good work to pass in a little time, in less than one would expect.
II.They punctually observed their orders, and did not in the least vary from them.
They did it according to all that the Lord commanded Moses, Exo 39:32, Exo 39:42. Note, God's work must be done, in every thing, according to his own will. His institutions neither need nor admit men's inventions to make them either more beautiful or more likely to answer the intention of them. Add thou not unto his words. God is pleased with willing worship, but not with will-worship.
III.They brought all their work to Moses, and submitted it to his inspection and censure, Exo 39:33.
He knew what he had ordered them to make; and now the particulars were called over, and all produced, that Moses might see both that they had made all, omitting nothing, and that they had made all according to the instructions given them, and that, if they had made a mistake in any thing, it might be forthwith rectified. Thus they showed respect to Moses, who was set over them in the Lord; not objecting that Moses did not understand such work, and therefore that there was no reason for submitting it to his judgment. No, that God who gave them so much knowledge as to do the work gave them also so much humility as to be willing to have it examined and compared with the model. Moses was in authority, and they would pay a deference to his place. The spirit of the prophets is subject to the prophets. And besides, though they knew how to do the work better than Moses, Moses had a better and more exact idea of the model than they had, and therefore they could not be well pleased with their own work, unless they had his approbation. Thus in all the services of religion we should labour to be accepted of the Lord.
IV.Moses, upon search, found all done according to the rule, Exo 39:43.
Moses, both for their satisfaction and for his own, did look upon all the work, piece by piece, and behold they had done it according to the pattern shown him, for the same Being that showed him the pattern guided their hand in the work. All the copies of God's grace exactly agree with the original of his counsels: what God works in us, and by us, is the fulfilling of the good pleasure of his own goodness; and when the mystery of God shall be finished, and all his performances come to be compared with his purposes, it will appear that behold all is done according to the counsel of his own will, not one iota or tittle of which shall fall to the ground, or be varied from.
V.Moses blessed them.
1.He commended them, and signified his approbation of all they had done. He did not find fault where there was none, as some do, who think they disparage their own judgment if they do not find something amiss in the best and most accomplished performance. In all this work it is probable there might have been found here and there a stitch amiss, and a stroke awry, which would have served for an over-curious and censorious critic to animadvert upon; but Moses was too candid to notice small faults where there were no great ones. Note, All governors must be a praise to those that do well, as well as a terror to evil-doers. Why should any take a pride in being hard to be pleased?
2.He not only praised them, but prayed for them. He blessed them as one having authority, for the less is blessed of the better. We read not of any wages that Moses paid them for their work, but this blessing he gave them. For, though ordinarily the labourer be worthy of his hire, yet in this case, 1. They wrought for themselves. The honour and comfort of God's tabernacle among them would be recompence enough. If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself. 2. They had their meat from heaven on free-cost, for themselves and their families, and their raiment waxed not old upon them; so that they neither needed wages nor had reason to expect any. Freely you have received, freely give. The obligations we lie under, both in duty and interest, to serve God, should be sufficient to quicken us to our work, though we had not a reward in prospect. But, 3. This blessing, in the name of the Lord, was wages enough for all their work. Those whom God employs he will bless, and those whom he blesses are blessed indeed. The blessing he commands is life for evermore.
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Summary
Exodus 39:32 marks the triumphant culmination of a monumental divine project: the Tabernacle. This verse not only declares the complete and meticulous finishing of the portable sanctuary—God's designated dwelling place among His people—but also powerfully affirms the unwavering and precise obedience of the Israelites. Their faithful execution of every detail, exactly as the LORD had commanded Moses, prepared the way for God's manifest presence to indwell the sanctuary, thereby establishing the central locus of worship, communion, and atonement for the nascent nation.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as the climactic conclusion to an extensive narrative arc spanning from Exodus 25 through Exodus 39, detailing the Tabernacle's construction. Following God's initial, highly specific instructions for the sanctuary's design, materials, and furnishings (chapters 25-31), the narrative shifts to the actual execution of these commands. Exodus 35-39 meticulously recount the generous freewill offerings of the people, the anointing and skill of master craftsmen like Bezalel and Aholiab, and the painstaking fabrication of every component—from the Ark of the Covenant and the menorah to the intricate curtains, wooden frames, and priestly garments. Exodus 39:32 functions as a grand declaration of "mission accomplished," setting the stage for the Tabernacle's erection and consecration in Exodus 40, where the glory of the LORD would descend and fill the completed structure, fulfilling the divine promise.
Historical & Cultural Context
The construction of the Tabernacle occurred during Israel's forty-year sojourn in the wilderness, a period of profound formation for the newly liberated nation. Having recently escaped Egyptian bondage, the Israelites were a nomadic people, and the Tabernacle's design as a portable sanctuary perfectly accommodated their transient existence. In the ancient Near East, temples and sacred spaces were common, but the Israelite Tabernacle was unique in its divine blueprint and its emphasis on God's immanent presence among His people, not confined to a fixed location. The meticulous adherence to divine command reflected a covenantal relationship where obedience was paramount for maintaining God's favor and presence. The collective effort—from the donation of precious materials by all social strata to the specialized craftsmanship—underscored the communal nature of worship and the deep commitment required to establish a holy space dedicated to the God who had delivered them from slavery and now desired to dwell in their midst. This act of building was not merely architectural but a profound theological statement about God's character and His relationship with His chosen people.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes prevalent throughout Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Divine Presence and Immanence, as the Tabernacle's completion signifies God's intention to "tabernacle" among His people, fulfilling His promise to dwell with them (Exodus 29:45-46). Closely related is the theme of Holiness and Separation, as the Tabernacle's intricate design and the meticulous obedience required for its construction underscore the absolute purity and distinctness of God, necessitating a specific, divinely ordained means of approach for a sinful people. Finally, the verse highlights the critical theme of Obedience to Divine Command. The repeated emphasis on the Israelites doing "according to all that the LORD commanded Moses" reinforces that fidelity to God's revealed will is the foundation for blessing, covenant faithfulness, and the manifestation of His glory, echoing principles found in passages like Deuteronomy 28.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term refers to "work of any kind," encompassing act, labor, service, or ministry. In this context, it denotes the entire comprehensive undertaking of constructing the Tabernacle, from the preparation of materials to the final assembly of its components. It highlights the diligent and purposeful activity involved in fulfilling God's detailed instructions, emphasizing the effort and dedication invested by the Israelites.
This primitive root means "to end," "to cease," "to be finished," or "to complete." When applied to the Tabernacle, it signifies that the immense and complex undertaking was brought to its intended conclusion, lacking nothing that was commanded. It implies not just the cessation of work but a state of wholeness, perfection, and readiness for its divine purpose. The use of this word here echoes the "finishing" of creation in Genesis 2:1-2, suggesting a parallel divine order and perfection in this new act of establishing God's dwelling.
This primitive root is a broad term meaning "to do or make" in the widest sense and application. Here, it emphasizes the active and precise execution of God's commands by the children of Israel. Its repetition in the verse ("did according to... so did they") underscores their meticulous and faithful performance of every instruction, demonstrating not just activity, but an alignment of their actions with the divine will.
Verse Breakdown
"Thus was all the work of the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation finished:"
This opening clause serves as a declarative statement of monumental accomplishment. The phrase "all the work" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the completion, signifying that every single component, from the smallest loop to the largest frame and the most intricate priestly garment, was brought to its intended conclusion. The dual naming, "tabernacle of the tent of the congregation," reinforces the sanctuary's dual identity as both God's dwelling place (mishkan, a residence) and the designated meeting place (ohel mo'ed, a tent of meeting) for Him to commune with His people. The finishing of this work signifies the readiness of the physical structure to host the divine presence and serve its sacred purpose.
"and the children of Israel did according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so did they."
This second clause highlights the meticulous and unwavering obedience of the Israelites. The repetition of the phrase "according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so did they" is a powerful literary device, emphasizing absolute fidelity to the divine blueprint. It underscores that the Tabernacle was not built according to human ingenuity, preference, or convenience, but precisely according to God's detailed and specific instructions. This obedience was not merely a matter of following rules but a profound act of faith, reverence, and covenantal commitment, demonstrating their desire for God's presence and their submission to His authority.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices, enhancing its impact and theological weight. Most prominently, there is Repetition, specifically the emphatic phrase "according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so did they." This phrase, or a variation of it, appears numerous times throughout the Tabernacle construction narrative (e.g., Exodus 39:1, Exodus 39:5, Exodus 39:7, Exodus 39:21, Exodus 39:26, Exodus 39:29, Exodus 39:31, Exodus 39:42-43). This constant reiteration serves to underscore the absolute importance of precise obedience to divine revelation, highlighting the Israelites' faithfulness and the divine authority behind the Tabernacle's design. Furthermore, the entire narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, culminating in this verse, functions as a powerful example of Fulfillment – the literal and complete execution of God's detailed commands. The Tabernacle itself is a profound Symbolism of God's desire to dwell among His people, a physical manifestation of His covenant presence and His holiness. Its completion signifies the establishment of a sacred space where the holy God could meet with a sinful humanity, foreshadowing a greater reconciliation.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 39:32 stands as a profound testament to the theological principle that divine presence is predicated on human obedience. The meticulous completion of the Tabernacle, precisely as God commanded, underscores the sanctity of God's blueprint for worship and life. It highlights God's desire for a dwelling place among His people, not as a static idol, but as a dynamic center for communion, revelation, and atonement. This act of faithful construction prepared the way for God's glory to descend, demonstrating that true worship involves not only heartfelt devotion but also diligent adherence to God's revealed will. The Tabernacle's completion therefore represents a pivotal moment in Israel's theological development, establishing the foundational patterns for approaching a holy God and illustrating the blessings that flow from corporate faithfulness.
Reflection and Application
The completion of the Tabernacle, as recorded in Exodus 39:32, offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. Just as the Israelites diligently followed God's intricate blueprint for His dwelling place, we are called to build our lives, our families, and our ministries in accordance with God's revealed will. This verse reminds us that true spiritual accomplishment is not measured by human innovation, efficiency, or personal preference, but by faithful and precise adherence to divine instructions. It challenges us to consider the diligence, precision, and reverence with which we approach our spiritual tasks, ensuring that our efforts are aligned with God's purposes, not merely our own. The Tabernacle's completion also speaks to the profound joy and satisfaction that come from seeing God's work brought to fruition through obedient hands. It encourages us to persevere in our callings, knowing that our faithful efforts, however small or seemingly insignificant, contribute to God's grand design for His dwelling among humanity and the advancement of His kingdom.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the significance of "all the work" being finished?
The phrase "all the work" being finished signifies the comprehensive and meticulous completion of the entire Tabernacle project, down to every last detail. It means that every component, from the Ark of the Covenant to the smallest curtain loop and priestly garment, was crafted precisely according to God's intricate instructions given to Moses (e.g., Exodus 25-Exodus 31). This completion was crucial because the Tabernacle was to be a holy dwelling place for God, and any deviation from the divine blueprint would have rendered it unsuitable for His presence. Its finishing prepared the way for God's glory to descend and fill it, as recorded in Exodus 40:34, establishing the central locus of worship for Israel and demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.
Why is the obedience of the children of Israel emphasized so strongly?
The strong emphasis on the children of Israel doing "according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so did they" highlights the critical importance of obedience in the covenant relationship between God and His people. Throughout the Old Testament, obedience is presented as foundational for receiving God's blessings, maintaining His presence, and demonstrating true faith (e.g., Deuteronomy 28). In the context of the Tabernacle, their faithful adherence to every divine instruction demonstrated their reverence for God's holiness and their unwavering commitment to His covenant. This meticulous obedience ensured that the Tabernacle was a true reflection of God's heavenly pattern (as later noted in Hebrews 8:5), making it a legitimate and effective place for atonement and communion. It was a profound act of corporate faith, showing that they valued God's word above their own preferences or perceived efficiencies.
What is the difference between "tabernacle" and "tent of the congregation"?
While often used interchangeably, "tabernacle" (Hebrew: mishkan, מִשְׁכָּן, H4908) and "tent of the congregation" (Hebrew: ohel mo'ed, אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד, H168, H4150) emphasize different, yet complementary, aspects of the same sacred structure. The term "tabernacle" primarily signifies God's "dwelling place" or "residence," highlighting His immanent presence among His people. It speaks to the theological reality that the Holy God chose to "tabernacle" with humanity. "Tent of the congregation" (or "tent of meeting"), on the other hand, emphasizes its function as the designated place where God would "meet" with Moses and, by extension, with the entire community of Israel. It was the central point for divine revelation, for receiving laws, and for the people to bring their sacrifices and offerings, thereby facilitating communion and atonement. The combination of both terms in Exodus 39:32 underscores the dual nature and comprehensive purpose of the sanctuary: it was both God's abode and the sacred locus for His people to encounter Him.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Exodus 39:32, marking the completion of God's earthly dwelling, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, a temporary and portable structure where God's presence dwelt among His people, was a tangible type pointing to the greater reality of God dwelling among humanity in the person of Jesus. John 1:14 declares, "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us," using the Greek word eskēnōsen (ἐσκήνωσεν), which literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent." Jesus, therefore, is the true and perfect Tabernacle, the ultimate meeting place where God and humanity are reconciled. All the intricate details of the Tabernacle, from the sacrifices offered to the priestly ministry, foreshadowed Christ's perfect atoning sacrifice on the cross and His role as our great High Priest, who entered the true, heavenly sanctuary once for all (Hebrews 9:11-12). Furthermore, through Christ, the concept of God's dwelling place expands beyond a physical structure to encompass His redeemed people. Believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, become the "temple of God" (1 Corinthians 3:16) and are built together into a "holy temple in the Lord" (Ephesians 2:20-22). Thus, the obedience of Israel in completing the earthly Tabernacle prefigured the perfect obedience of Christ, who fully accomplished God's will, establishing a new and living way for God to dwell eternally with His redeemed people, culminating in the promise of God's dwelling with humanity in the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:3).