Exodus 40:33

And he reared up the court round about the tabernacle and the altar, and set up the hanging of the court gate. So Moses finished the work.

Exodus 40:33 (KJV)

Context

Exodus 40 describes the completion of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshipped God during their wilderness journey. It was constructed according to the detailed instructions God gave Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31). After receiving the commandments and making atonement for the sin of the golden calf (Exodus 32-34), Moses now oversees the final stages of setting up the Tabernacle.

The court around the tabernacle and the altar, with its hanging gate, was made according to God’s specific design. The hangings of the court were one hundred cubits long and fifty cubits broad, and the gate hanging was twenty cubits, hung upon four pillars, as specified in Exodus 27:9 and Exodus 27:16. This careful attention to detail shows the reverence due to God and the order He required in worship.

Meaning

In Exodus 40:33, Moses completes the work of setting up the Tabernacle as God commanded. The phrase “So Moses finished the work” marks the completion of the tabernacle’s construction, not merely as a human achievement but as the fulfillment of God’s plan for His dwelling place among His people. Moses was a faithful servant and leader of the Israelites. His obedience and commitment to carrying out God’s instructions serve as a powerful example for us today. As believers, we are called to be obedient to God’s Word and trust in His guidance, just as Moses did.

The verse also highlights the importance of finishing the work. Completing the construction of the Tabernacle was significant, as it represented the fulfillment of God’s plan for His dwelling place among the people. In our own lives, we should strive to finish the work that God has called us to do. This includes not only starting well in our faith but also persevering and remaining faithful to the end.

Biblical connections

The hanging of the court gate was an essential component of the Tabernacle. It symbolized that there was a designated point of access for the people to approach God. Jesus later referred to Himself as “the door” (John 10:9), emphasizing that He is the way through which we can come to God. Today, we have direct access to God through Jesus Christ, who is our mediator and High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16).

The Tabernacle’s completion and consecration also signaled the completion of the process of redemption for the Israelites. The sacrificial system within the Tabernacle foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, which would provide redemption and forgiveness of sins for all who believe in Him. This highlights the centrality of Christ in God’s plan of salvation.

Application

As we reflect on this verse, we can apply its principles to our lives. Just as Moses completed the work of setting up the Tabernacle, we should strive to finish the tasks and assignments God has given us, remaining faithful to His calling. We can seek God’s presence daily, knowing that we have access to Him through Jesus Christ. And in our journey of faith, let us remember that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross brings redemption and eternal life to all who trust in Him.

Reflection

Exodus 40:33 reminds us of the completion of the Tabernacle’s construction and its significance as a place of God’s presence among the Israelites. Moses’ obedience and faithfulness to God’s instructions serve as an example for us, urging us to remain steadfast in our walk with the Lord. Through Jesus Christ, we have direct access to God, and His sacrifice on the cross provides redemption and forgiveness of sins for all who believe in Him. As we seek to complete the work God has entrusted to us, let us continually draw near to Him and walk in His ways.