Exodus 39:32

So all the work for the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, was completed. The Israelites did everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

So all the work
This phrase signifies the culmination of a significant and divinely inspired project. The Hebrew word for "work" here is "מְלָאכָה" (melakah), which implies not just labor but craftsmanship and artistry. This reflects the meticulous care and dedication the Israelites invested in constructing the tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of diligence and excellence in fulfilling God's commands.

for the tabernacle
The term "tabernacle" comes from the Hebrew "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place." This was not merely a physical structure but a sacred space where God's presence would dwell among His people. The tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to be intimately involved with His creation, foreshadowing the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity through Jesus Christ.

the Tent of Meeting
This phrase highlights the tabernacle's function as a place of communion between God and His people. The Hebrew "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed) indicates a designated place for divine-human interaction. Historically, this was where Moses would meet with God, receiving guidance and instruction, underscoring the importance of seeking God's presence and direction in our lives.

was completed
The completion of the tabernacle signifies the fulfillment of God's instructions. The Hebrew root "כָּלָה" (kalah) means to finish or bring to an end. This completion is a testament to the faithfulness and obedience of the Israelites, serving as a reminder that God equips His people to accomplish His purposes when they follow His commands.

The Israelites did everything
This phrase emphasizes the collective effort and unity of the Israelites in executing God's plan. It reflects the communal aspect of worship and service, where each member contributes to the greater purpose. The obedience of the Israelites serves as a model for the Church, highlighting the importance of working together in harmony to fulfill God's mission.

just as the LORD had commanded Moses
The phrase underscores the importance of adherence to divine instruction. The Hebrew "כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוָּה יְהוָה אֶת־מֹשֶׁה" (ka'asher tzivah Yahweh et-Moshe) reflects a precise obedience to God's commands. This obedience is not merely about following rules but about aligning with God's will, demonstrating trust in His wisdom and sovereignty. It serves as a powerful reminder that true worship involves both faith and obedience, as we seek to live according to God's revealed Word.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from Egypt and tasked with constructing the tabernacle according to God's instructions.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the commandments and instructions from God on Mount Sinai.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people, serving as a central place of worship and sacrifice.

4. The Tent of Meeting
Another term for the tabernacle, emphasizing its role as a place where God would meet with Moses and the Israelites.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who provided the detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' completion of the tabernacle as commanded by God underscores the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people, reminding us of His continual presence in our lives.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The meticulous construction of the tabernacle teaches us to approach worship with reverence and care, honoring God with our best.

Community in Action
The collective effort of the Israelites in building the tabernacle highlights the importance of community and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The tabernacle points to Jesus, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with humanity, encouraging us to seek a deeper relationship with Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the Israelites in constructing the tabernacle challenge us in our own obedience to God's commands today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is as detailed and reverent as the construction of the tabernacle?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the tabernacle relate to the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives?

4. What can we learn from the communal effort of the Israelites in building the tabernacle about working together in our church communities?

5. How does the tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ enhance our understanding of Jesus' role in our lives and in the world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the tabernacle, highlighting the obedience of the Israelites in Exodus 39:32.

Hebrews 8:5
This verse refers to the tabernacle as a copy and shadow of what is in heaven, connecting the earthly tabernacle to the heavenly reality.

1 Chronicles 28:19
David speaks of the plans for the temple, which were given by the Spirit, paralleling the divine instructions for the tabernacle.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and "tabernacled" among us, drawing a parallel between the tabernacle and Jesus dwelling among humanity.

Revelation 21:3
This verse speaks of God dwelling with His people in the new heaven and new earth, echoing the purpose of the tabernacle.