Exodus 39:42

The Israelites had done all the work just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

The Israelites had done all the work just as the LORD had commanded Moses
The Israelites
This phrase refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, who were chosen by God to be His people. The term "Israelites" emphasizes their identity as a covenant community, set apart for God's purposes. Historically, the Israelites were a nomadic people who had been enslaved in Egypt and were now in the wilderness, journeying towards the Promised Land. Their identity as a people chosen by God is central to their mission and purpose, as they are to be a light to the nations.

had done
The phrase "had done" indicates the completion of a task or command. In the Hebrew context, this reflects the concept of obedience and faithfulness. The Israelites' actions were not merely about physical labor but were acts of worship and devotion to God. Their obedience is a testament to their faith and trust in God's plan and commands.

all the work
This phrase encompasses the entirety of the tasks assigned to the Israelites, specifically the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The "work" was not just manual labor but a sacred duty, as it involved creating a dwelling place for God's presence among His people. The meticulous nature of the work reflects the holiness and precision required in serving a holy God.

just as
The phrase "just as" underscores the importance of exactness and precision in following God's instructions. It highlights the Israelites' commitment to adhering to the divine blueprint provided to Moses. This obedience is crucial, as it reflects their reverence for God's authority and their desire to honor Him through their actions.

the LORD
The term "the LORD" is a translation of the Hebrew name Yahweh, the covenant name of God. It signifies His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. The use of this name in the context of the verse emphasizes God's role as the ultimate authority and the one who guides and directs His people.

had commanded
The word "commanded" indicates a directive from God that requires obedience. In the Hebrew tradition, God's commands are not merely suggestions but are binding and authoritative. The Israelites' adherence to these commands demonstrates their submission to God's will and their recognition of His sovereignty.

Moses
Moses is the central human figure in the Exodus narrative, chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and to receive the Law on Mount Sinai. His role as a mediator between God and the people is crucial, as he conveys God's instructions and ensures their implementation. Moses' leadership is characterized by humility and faithfulness, serving as a model for future leaders in the community of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and tasked with building the Tabernacle.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who provided the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to receive the Law and instructions for the Tabernacle on Mount Sinai.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary constructed by the Israelites according to God's specifications, serving as a place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

5. The Commandments
The specific instructions given by God to Moses regarding the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle, which the Israelites followed meticulously.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' faithful execution of God's instructions serves as a model for believers to follow God's commands precisely and wholeheartedly.

Faithfulness in Small Details
Just as the Israelites paid attention to every detail in the construction of the Tabernacle, believers are called to be faithful in the small details of their lives, knowing that God values obedience in all things.

God's Presence and Worship
The completion of the Tabernacle was crucial for the Israelites to experience God's presence. Similarly, believers are encouraged to create spaces in their lives for worship and communion with God.

Community and Cooperation
The construction of the Tabernacle required the collective effort of the entire community, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes.

Trust in God's Plan
The Israelites' adherence to God's plan for the Tabernacle reminds believers to trust in God's perfect plan for their lives, even when it requires patience and diligence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Israelites' obedience in constructing the Tabernacle challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are paying attention to the "small details" in our spiritual lives, as the Israelites did with the Tabernacle?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence influence our understanding of worship today?

4. What are some practical ways we can foster community and cooperation within our church or faith community, similar to the Israelites' collective effort?

5. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's plan, as demonstrated by the Israelites' adherence to His instructions, in our current life situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle, which the Israelites followed as described in Exodus 39:42.

Hebrews 8:5
This verse highlights the importance of following God's pattern, as the earthly Tabernacle was a shadow of the heavenly one, emphasizing the need for obedience to divine instructions.

1 Chronicles 28:19
David's instructions for the Temple, given by God, parallel the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, underscoring the importance of following God's precise plans.