Commentary on Exodus 40

Exodus 40 brings the book to a climactic close, detailing the final assembly of the Tabernacle exactly as Yahweh commanded. Moses oversees every step, from erecting the frame to placing the sacred furniture and anointing the priests. The chapter culminates in the glorious descent of God's presence, the Shekinah, filling the completed sanctuary. This divine indwelling signifies God's faithfulness to His covenant and His desire to dwell among His people, providing both a place of worship and a visible guide for their journey.

Historical context

The book of Exodus, traditionally attributed to Moses, chronicles Israel's liberation from Egyptian bondage, their journey to Mount Sinai, and the establishment of their covenant relationship with God. Chapters 25-31 provided detailed blueprints for the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments, while chapters 35-39 described the meticulous craftsmanship involved in their construction. Exodus 40 serves as the grand finale, demonstrating Israel's obedience and God's immediate response.

This chapter is set at the foot of Mount Sinai, approximately one year after the Exodus from Egypt. The Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, was central to Israel's identity and worship. It was the physical manifestation of God's presence among them, a place where atonement could be made and where God would meet with His people. The careful adherence to divine instructions underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness of approaching Him on His terms. The completion of the Tabernacle marks a pivotal moment, transitioning Israel from a nomadic group to a covenant community with a defined center of worship and a visible sign of God's guiding presence.

Verse by verse

• 1:

  God commands Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the first month, marking a new beginning for Israel. This precise timing emphasizes the divine initiative and the importance of order in their worship.

• 2:

  Moses is instructed to erect the Tabernacle structure itself, the outer framework that would house the sacred spaces. This foundational step is crucial for all subsequent placements.

• 3:

  The Ark of the Covenant, containing the tablets of the law, is to be brought in and shielded by the veil. This act signifies the ultimate holiness of God's law and His presence, hidden from direct human sight.

• 4:

  The table for the Bread of the Presence and the lampstand are to be placed in the Holy Place. These items represent God's provision and His illuminating presence among His people.

• 5:

  The golden altar of incense is to be positioned before the veil, emphasizing the role of prayer and intercession as a sweet aroma before God, leading into His presence.

• 6:

  The altar of burnt offering is placed at the entrance to the Tabernacle courtyard. This is where sacrifices for atonement would be made, highlighting the necessity of blood sacrifice for sin.

• 7:

  The washbasin, or laver, is to be set between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, for the priests to cleanse themselves. This underscores the need for ritual purity before ministering to God.

• 9:

  Moses is commanded to anoint the Tabernacle and all its furnishings, consecrating them for sacred use. Anointing with oil symbolizes dedication and the setting apart for God's holy purposes.

• 13:

  Aaron and his sons are to be dressed in their priestly garments and anointed. This formal ordination establishes their role as mediators between God and Israel, set apart for service.

• 16:

  Moses faithfully carries out all of God's commands, demonstrating perfect obedience. This obedience is a recurring theme, emphasizing the importance of following divine instruction precisely.

• 34:

  The cloud, representing God's glorious presence (the Shekinah), fills the Tabernacle. This is the culmination of the entire project, signifying God's acceptance and His dwelling among His people.

• 35:

  Moses is unable to enter the Tent of Meeting because of the overwhelming glory of the Lord. This highlights God's immense holiness and the reverence due to His presence, even for His chosen leader.

• 36:

  The cloud's movement dictates Israel's journey. When the cloud lifted, they moved; when it stayed, they remained. This illustrates God's direct guidance and provision for His people.

• 38:

  The cloud by day and fire by night served as a constant, visible reminder of God's presence and protection. This divine pillar was a tangible sign of God's covenant faithfulness throughout their wilderness wanderings.

Key themes

• Divine Presence
• Obedience to God's Commands
• Consecration and Holiness
• God's Guidance
• Covenant Faithfulness

Application

The completion of the Tabernacle in Exodus 40 is a profound reminder that God desires to dwell among His people. For us today, the Tabernacle points forward to Christ, who is God's ultimate dwelling among humanity (John 1:14). Just as the Tabernacle was meticulously built according to God's specifications, so too is our salvation perfectly accomplished through Christ's obedience.

This chapter also calls us to a life of obedience and reverence. The Israelites' careful adherence to God's instructions for the Tabernacle teaches us that our worship and service should be offered in a way that honors God's holiness. Furthermore, the cloud and fire that guided Israel remind us that God continues to lead His people. We are called to trust in His guidance, knowing that He is present with us through the Holy Spirit, illuminating our path and empowering us to live for His glory.

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