Doing exactly as commanded, inspection and the blessing of completed work
Exodus 39 completes the priestly garments and then gathers together the finished tabernacle work for inspection. Again and again the chapter repeats the phrase “as the LORD commanded Moses.” At the end Moses examines everything, sees that it has been done according to the commandment, and blesses the workers. The chapter is an exhortation to careful obedience and finishing well.
1. Repeated obedience is worth recording
The phrase “as the LORD commanded Moses” appears again and again. The repetition emphasises that faithful service is not accidental.
2. Holiness should shape visible service
The holy garments are made for Aaron just as instructed. (Exodus 39:1). Spiritual responsibility should be carried with reverence.
3. Skilled work can require painstaking technique
Gold is beaten into thin plates and cut into wires for the ephod. (Exodus 39:3). Excellence often requires patient, detailed labour that others may never notice.
4. The people of God are carried in representative service
The shoulder stones and breastplate bear the tribal names. (Exodus 39:6-14). The high-priestly pattern again directs us toward Christ bearing his people before God.
5. ‘HOLINESS TO THE LORD’ remains the controlling principle
The golden plate is completed and attached as commanded. (Exodus 39:30-31). Holiness is not an optional decoration on service; it defines it.
6. Co-operation helps produce one light
The completed lampstand and lamps belong to one ordered system. (Exodus 39:37). Ecclesias and individual believers should work together so that the light of truth is clearer, not fragmented by rivalry.
7. Finished work should be inspected
Moses looks upon all the work. (Exodus 39:43). Good intentions are not the only measure; completed work should be checked against the required standard.
8. Accountability is not an insult to faithful workers
The craftsmen have worked diligently, yet Moses still examines the result. Responsible review protects quality and honours the purpose of the work.
9. Approval comes when the work matches the command
Moses sees that they have done it “as the LORD had commanded.” (Exodus 39:43). The standard is God’s revealed pattern.
10. Faithful completion deserves blessing
Moses blesses the workers. (Exodus 39:43). Scripture does not glorify unfinished enthusiasm. There is joy in bringing a faithful task to completion.
11. The chapter points toward the future inspection by Christ
Believers expect to appear before the judgment seat of Christ. Our aim should be work shaped by his teaching and capable of receiving his approval.
Closing thought
Exodus 39 is about finishing well. The work is complete, carefully inspected and approved because it conforms to what God commanded. That is a worthy aim for every form of service.
Practical Readings — Exodus 39