Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: Exodus 39:32-43Context and Background: The account of Moses approving the work is found in the Book of Exodus, which details the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the establishment of their covenant with God at Mount Sinai. This particular event occurs after the Israelites have received the Law and instructions for building the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that would serve as the dwelling place of God among His people. Narrative Summary: In Exodus 39:32-43, the narrative describes the completion of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The Israelites, under the leadership of skilled artisans like Bezalel and Oholiab, have followed the divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. The passage highlights the meticulous care and obedience with which the work was carried out, ensuring that every detail aligned with God's commands. Key Verses: Exodus 39:42-43 : "The Israelites had done all the work just as the LORD had commanded Moses. And Moses inspected all the work and saw that they had done it just as the LORD had commanded. So Moses blessed them." Theological Significance: 1. Obedience to Divine Command: The passage underscores the importance of obedience to God's instructions. The Israelites' careful adherence to the divine blueprint for the Tabernacle reflects their commitment to honoring God's holiness and sovereignty. 2. Role of Leadership: Moses' role as a leader is emphasized in his responsibility to inspect and approve the work. His approval signifies that the work was not only completed but also met the standards set by God. This act of inspection and approval is a testament to the accountability and stewardship expected of leaders. 3. Community and Collaboration: The construction of the Tabernacle was a communal effort involving the entire Israelite community. Skilled artisans, craftsmen, and the broader community contributed their resources and talents. This collective effort highlights the value of unity and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes. 4. Blessing as Affirmation: Moses' blessing upon the people serves as an affirmation of their faithful service and dedication. It signifies God's favor and the fulfillment of His promises when His people walk in obedience. 5. Symbolism of the Tabernacle: The completion of the Tabernacle represents more than just a physical structure; it symbolizes God's presence among His people. It serves as a foreshadowing of the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity, fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers. Practical Application: The account of Moses approving the work encourages believers to pursue excellence and faithfulness in their service to God. It serves as a reminder that every task, no matter how mundane, can be an act of worship when done in obedience to God's will. The passage also calls for leaders to be diligent in their oversight and to bless those under their care, recognizing their contributions to the work of the Kingdom. Subtopics Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Moses Moses is a Herdsman for Jethro in the Desert of Horeb Moses with Aaron Assembles the Leaders of Israel Moses with his Wife and Sons, he Leaves Jethro to Perform his Mission in Egypt Moses: A Levite and Son of Amram Moses: Appoints Joshua As his Successor Moses: Benedictions of Last Benediction Upon the Twelve Tribes Moses: Benedictions of Upon the People Moses: Character of Called the Man of God Moses: Character of Complainings of Moses: Character of God Spoke To, As a Man to his Friend Moses: Character of Impatience of Moses: Character of Magnanimity of, Toward Eldad and Medad Moses: Character of Magnified of God Moses: Character of Meekness of Moses: Character of Obedience of Moses: Character of Respected and Feared Moses: Character of Unaspiring Moses: Commissioned As Leader of the Israelites Moses: Composes a Song for the People of Israel on Their Deliverance from Pharaoh Moses: Crosses the Red Sea; Pharaoh and his Army are Destroyed Moses: Discovered and Adopted by the Daughter of Pharaoh Moses: Has the Vision of the Burning Bush Moses: Hidden in a Small Basket Moses: His Controversy With his Wife on Account of Circumcision Moses: His Loyalty to his Race Moses: His Rod Miraculously Turned Into a Serpent, and his Hand Was Made Leprous, and Then Restored Moses: Institutes a System of Government Moses: Jealousy of Aaron and Miriam Toward Moses: Joined by his Family in the Wilderness Moses: Joins Himself to Jethro, Priest of Midian Moses: Learned in all the Wisdom of Egypt Moses: Meets Aaron in the Wilderness Moses: Mourning For, Thirty Days in the Plains of Moab Moses: Not Permitted to Enter Canaan, But Views the Land from Atop Mount Pisgah Moses: People Complain Against Moses and Aaron Moses: Present With Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration Moses: Rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram Against Moses: Receives Comfort and Assurance from the Lord Moses: Rejected by Pharaoh; Hardships of the Israelites Increased Moses: Renews his Appeal to Pharaoh Moses: Reproves Aaron For: Irregularity in the offerings Moses: Reproves Aaron For: Making the Golden Calf Moses: Secures the Deliverance of the People and Leads Them out of Egypt Moses: Takes the Life of an Egyptian Taskmaster Moses: Under Divine Direction Brings Plagues Upon the Land of Egypt Mutiny: Israelites Against Moses Related Terms |