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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 39:43 masterfully concludes the detailed narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, presenting Moses' final, meticulous inspection of the completed sanctuary and its intricate furnishings. This verse highlights the profound moment when Moses, acting as God's appointed overseer, confirmed that the Israelites had executed every aspect of the divine blueprint with absolute precision, adhering perfectly to the LORD's explicit commands. In response to this exemplary faithfulness and diligent labor, Moses pronounced a solemn blessing upon the people, signifying divine approval, the impartation of God's favor, and the assurance of His presence among them.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as the powerful culmination of a significant literary block in Exodus, spanning from chapter 25 to chapter 39. Chapters 25-31 meticulously detail God's precise instructions and blueprint for the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments, given to Moses on Mount Sinai. Chapters 35-39 then narrate the faithful execution of these commands by the skilled Israelite artisans, led by Bezalel and Oholiab. Exodus 39:32-42 provides a comprehensive summary of all the completed work being brought to Moses for inspection. Therefore, verse 43 functions as the climactic seal of divine approval, validating the entire construction project before the Tabernacle's erection and consecration in Exodus 40. It underscores the pervasive theme of obedience that is central to the covenant relationship, emphasizing the Israelites' meticulous adherence to God's exact specifications, which is repeatedly affirmed throughout these chapters.
Historical & Cultural Context
The construction of the Tabernacle was a monumental undertaking for the nomadic Israelite community in the wilderness, occurring shortly after their miraculous deliverance from Egypt and the foundational covenant established at Mount Sinai. God had commanded this sanctuary to be built so that He might "dwell among them" (Exodus 25:8), thereby establishing a tangible center for worship and divine presence. Moses, as God's chosen mediator, received the divine pattern directly from the LORD (Exodus 25:9) and then delegated the work to individuals divinely gifted with wisdom and skill, such as Bezalel and Oholiab (Exodus 31:1-6). In the broader ancient Near Eastern context, the construction of temples or sacred spaces was a profound act, reflecting a deity's power, a community's devotion, and often requiring strict adherence to divine or royal specifications. Moses' final inspection and subsequent blessing were culturally and theologically vital, authenticating the work as divinely acceptable and ensuring the Tabernacle would legitimately serve as the dwelling place of Yahweh among His people, confirming their covenant fidelity.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Obedience, demonstrating that faithful adherence to God's precise commands is paramount for His people. The repeated affirmation "as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it" highlights the meticulousness required and achieved. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of Divine Presence and Dwelling, as the Tabernacle's successful completion paves the way for God to reside among His people, fulfilling His promise. This is a foundational concept that anticipates the incarnation of Christ, God dwelling among humanity (e.g., John 1:14). Thirdly, the verse subtly emphasizes Divine Approval and Blessing, showing that God delights in and affirms the diligent and obedient service of His people. Moses' blessing is a tangible sign of this divine favor, setting a precedent for the blessings promised for obedience throughout the Law (e.g., Deuteronomy 28:1-14). Finally, it speaks to the theme of Divine Design and Human Craftsmanship, showcasing how human skill, empowered by God's Spirit, can perfectly execute God's intricate plans for His glory.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb signifies more than a casual glance; it implies a careful, thorough inspection, a discerning examination. Moses "looked upon all the work," suggesting a meticulous review of every component and detail against the divine specifications. This careful scrutiny underscores the immense importance of the work's precision and the weighty validation that Moses' approval carried. It was an act of discerning, not just seeing.
This word carries the strong connotation of a divine imperative, an authoritative order, or a precise instruction. The repeated phrase "as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it" highlights that God's directives were not mere suggestions but binding blueprints, given with absolute authority. The Israelites' faithfulness is measured by their exact and unwavering adherence to these specific divine mandates, demonstrating that God's will is to be followed without deviation.
To "bless" in this context is to impart divine favor, prosperity, and well-being. Moses, acting as God's representative and mediator, pronounced a blessing upon the people. This act was a profound acknowledgment of their obedience and diligent labor, an affirmation of God's pleasure with their work, and an invocation of His continued presence, favor, and spiritual flourishing upon the community. It was a declaration of divine goodwill.
Verse Breakdown
"And Moses did look upon all the work"
This clause establishes Moses' crucial role as the divinely appointed overseer and validator of the Tabernacle project. His personal inspection was not a formality but a critical act, ensuring that the immense undertaking met God's exact and holy standards. This act of looking signifies accountability, divine oversight, and the necessity of human diligence in fulfilling God's commands.
"and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it"
This is the theological heart of the verse, a profound affirmation of the Israelites' perfect and unwavering obedience. The emphatic repetition of "as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it" serves as a powerful literary device, underscoring the meticulous precision and unwavering faithfulness with which every single detail of the Tabernacle was constructed. It highlights that the work was not merely "good enough" or "close enough," but precisely aligned with the divine blueprint, a testament to their dedication and God's enabling grace.
"and Moses blessed them"
Following the validation of their work and their demonstrated obedience, Moses pronounced a blessing upon the people. This blessing was a direct and immediate consequence of their faithful adherence to God's will. It was an act of divine affirmation and favor, ensuring God's continued presence, protection, and blessing upon the community that had so diligently honored His commands and prepared a dwelling place for Him.
Literary Devices
The most prominent literary device in Exodus 39:43 is Repetition, specifically the emphatic restatement of "as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it." This doubling of the phrase serves to underscore the absolute and precise obedience of the Israelites in constructing the Tabernacle. It highlights the meticulousness of their work and their unwavering faithfulness to the divine blueprint, leaving no doubt about the perfect alignment of their actions with God's will. This repetition functions as a powerful Affirmation or Validation, confirming the integrity and divine acceptability of the entire project. Furthermore, Moses' act of "looking upon all the work" and subsequently "blessing them" creates a profound sense of Climax and Resolution for the extensive narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, bringing the detailed accounts to a satisfying and divinely approved conclusion. The phrase "and, behold," also acts as an Interjection, drawing the reader's attention to the significant discovery Moses makes.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 39:43 powerfully encapsulates the profound theological truth that faithful and precise obedience to God's revealed will results in divine approval and blessing. The meticulous adherence to the Tabernacle's blueprint, down to the smallest detail, underscores God's sovereignty, His inherent holiness, and His desire for His people to live in precise alignment with His instructions. This verse affirms that God delights in the diligent and obedient service of His people, and that such service is met with His favor and the impartation of His blessing. It sets a foundational precedent for the covenant relationship between divine command, human responsibility, and God's gracious response, emphasizing that true worship, fellowship, and the experience of God's presence are predicated on unwavering obedience.
Reflection and Application
Exodus 39:43 offers timeless and profound lessons for believers today, reminding us that our walk with God is deeply intertwined with the quality and precision of our obedience. Just as the Israelites' work was meticulously scrutinized and then blessed, our lives and service are continually evaluated by God, not for condemnation, but for affirmation and growth. This verse challenges us to move beyond mere effort or good intentions to precise and faithful execution of God's will, not according to our own preferences or convenience, but according to His revealed Word. It calls us to approach every task, whether in our spiritual disciplines, our vocations, our family life, or our community engagement, with a spirit of excellence and a desire to honor God in every detail. When we faithfully obey, we can anticipate God's affirmation and blessing, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain and that our obedience brings Him glory and us joy.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Moses' inspection so important, and what does it signify?
Moses' inspection was critically important because he was God's appointed mediator and representative, the one who had received the divine blueprint directly from the LORD on Mount Sinai. His "looking upon all the work" (Hebrew: râʼâh) was not a casual glance but a thorough, meticulous examination to ensure that every single detail of the Tabernacle and its furnishings conformed precisely to the divine blueprint. This act of inspection served as a divine audit, validating the Israelites' work as acceptable to God. It signifies that God is not indifferent to how His commands are carried out; He desires and delights in precise obedience and excellence in service. Moses' approval was, in essence, God's approval, confirming that the sanctuary was fit to be the legitimate dwelling place of the Holy One among His people (Exodus 25:8).
What is the significance of the repeated phrase "as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it"?
The repetition of this phrase is a powerful literary device that emphatically underscores the Israelites' perfect and unwavering obedience. It appears numerous times throughout the chapters detailing the Tabernacle's construction (e.g., Exodus 39:1, Exodus 39:5, Exodus 39:7, and many others), culminating in this final summary statement. Its significance lies in highlighting the meticulousness and faithfulness with which the people executed God's precise instructions. It emphasizes that their work was not based on human ingenuity, convenience, or preference, but on absolute adherence to the divine will. This repetition serves to affirm God's sovereignty, the paramount importance of obedience in the covenant relationship, and the integrity of the completed work.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Exodus 39:43, with its profound emphasis on perfect obedience leading to divine approval and blessing, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, meticulously constructed "as the LORD had commanded," was a tangible shadow, a copy and type of the true dwelling place of God. Jesus is the ultimate "Tabernacle," the eternal Word made flesh who "dwelt among us" (John 1:14), embodying the very presence of God. Unlike the earthly sanctuary, which was a temporary and imperfect copy, Christ is the perfect, unblemished reality, the true temple of God (John 2:19-21). His entire life was characterized by absolute and unwavering obedience to the Father's will, from His humble birth to His agonizing death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). Where the Israelites' obedience, though commendable, was still imperfect and required ongoing atonement, Christ's obedience was flawless, fulfilling every command of the Law and every prophecy concerning the Messiah. Moses' blessing upon the obedient Israelites foreshadows the ultimate blessing that flows from Christ's perfect work: eternal life, reconciliation with God, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit for all who believe (Ephesians 1:3). Through His perfect obedience, Jesus has secured for us access to God's presence, making us "living stones" built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, a dwelling place for God by the Spirit (1 Peter 2:5).