Exodus 40:33 – “Then Moses set up the courtyard around the tabernacle and altar and put up the curtain at the entrance to the courtyard. And so Moses finished the work.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 40:33 marks the completion of the construction of the Tabernacle, a significant milestone in the history of the Israelites. Moses had followed God’s detailed instructions to build the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people during their journey through the wilderness. The verse describes the final act of setting up the courtyard and the entrance curtain, signifying that everything was now in place for the worship and sacrifices that would take place there. The phrase “Moses finished the work” highlights Moses’ obedience and faithfulness in completing the task God had given him.
Historical Context
The construction of the Tabernacle occurred after the Israelites had left Egypt and received the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai. God provided Moses with precise instructions on how to build the Tabernacle, which was to be the center of worship for the Israelites. The Tabernacle was a symbol of God’s presence with His people, and its construction was a tangible sign of God’s covenant with Israel. The completion of the Tabernacle, as described in Exodus 40:33, represented the fulfillment of God’s command and the readiness of the Israelites to worship Him according to His instructions.
Theological Implications
The completion of the Tabernacle symbolizes the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the faithfulness required to carry out His work. Moses’ careful adherence to God’s instructions underscores the belief that God’s presence dwells where His people are obedient and faithful. The Tabernacle also foreshadows the idea of God dwelling with His people, a theme that is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle’s completion is not just the end of a construction project but the beginning of a new phase in Israel’s relationship with God, where they can now meet with Him in a designated holy place.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 40:33 serves as the concluding statement of a detailed narrative describing the construction of the Tabernacle. The verse is succinct, yet it carries a sense of accomplishment and closure. The phrase “And so Moses finished the work” is particularly powerful, emphasizing the completion of a significant divine mandate. The structure of this verse, with its focus on the completion of the task, mirrors other biblical passages where obedience to God’s commands is highlighted. This literary technique reinforces the theme of faithful service to God.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:8-9 – “Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you.”
- 1 Kings 6:14 – “So Solomon built the temple and completed it.”
- John 17:4 – “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 40:33 is a reminder of the importance of completing the work God has given us. Just as Moses was faithful in building the Tabernacle according to God’s instructions, Christians are called to faithfully carry out the tasks God has assigned to them. This verse encourages believers to persevere in their service to God, knowing that their obedience and diligence are part of their worship. It also speaks to the importance of following God’s directions carefully, recognizing that every detail matters in the work of God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 40:33 reflects God’s desire to dwell among His people and be in relationship with them. The Tabernacle was not just a building; it was a place where God would meet with His people, guiding and protecting them. The completion of the Tabernacle shows God’s love in providing a way for His people to experience His presence. It also demonstrates God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises, as He had promised to be with His people, and now the Tabernacle was ready for that purpose.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The completion of the Tabernacle foreshadows the work of Jesus Christ, who came to fulfill God’s plan of redemption. Just as Moses finished the work of building the Tabernacle, Jesus completed the work of salvation through His life, death, and resurrection. In John 17:4, Jesus speaks of finishing the work that God gave Him to do, which parallels Moses’ completion of the Tabernacle. Moreover, the Tabernacle itself points to Jesus, who is described in John 1:14 as the Word who “became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” Jesus is the true Tabernacle, the place where God meets with His people.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What tasks has God given you, and how can you ensure that you complete them faithfully?
- How does understanding the completion of the Tabernacle deepen your appreciation of God’s presence in your life?
- In what ways does the Tabernacle foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ?
- How can you apply the principle of obedience to God’s instructions in your daily life?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of perseverance in our spiritual journey?