Exodus 39
BSB1 From the blue, purple, and scarlet yarn they made specially woven garments for ministry in the sanctuary, as well as the holy garments for Aaron, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 2 Bezalel made the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. 3 They hammered out thin sheets of gold and cut threads from them to interweave with the blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen—the work of a skilled craftsman. 4 They made shoulder pieces for the ephod, which were attached at two of its corners, so it could be fastened. 5 And the skillfully woven waistband of the ephod was of one piece with the ephod, of the same workmanship—with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 6 They mounted the onyx stones in gold filigree settings, engraved like a seal with the names of the sons of Israel. 7 Then they fastened them on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel, as the LORD had commanded Moses. 8 He made the breastpiece with the same workmanship as the ephod, with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen. 9 It was square when folded over double, a span long and a span wide. 10 And they mounted on it four rows of gemstones: The first row had a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; 11 the second row had a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; 12 the third row had a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; 13 and the fourth row had a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. These stones were mounted in gold filigree settings. 14 The twelve stones corresponded to the names of the sons of Israel. Each stone was engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes. 15 For the breastpiece they made braided chains like cords of pure gold. 16 They also made two gold filigree settings and two gold rings, and fastened the two rings to the two corners of the breastpiece. 17 Then they fastened the two gold chains to the two gold rings at the corners of the breastpiece, 18 and they fastened the other ends of the two chains to the two filigree settings, attaching them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front. 19 They made two more gold rings and attached them to the other two corners of the breastpiece, on the inside edge next to the ephod. 20 They made two additional gold rings and attached them to the bottom of the two shoulder pieces of the ephod, on its front, near the seam just above its woven waistband. 21 Then they tied the rings of the breastpiece to the rings of the ephod with a cord of blue yarn, so that the breastpiece was above the waistband of the ephod and would not swing out from the ephod, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 22 They made the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, the work of a weaver, 23 with an opening in the center of the robe like that of a garment, with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear. 24 They made pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely spun linen on the lower hem of the robe. 25 They also made bells of pure gold and attached them around the hem between the pomegranates, 26 alternating the bells and pomegranates around the lower hem of the robe to be worn for ministry, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 27 For Aaron and his sons they made tunics of fine linen, the work of a weaver, 28 as well as the turban of fine linen, the ornate headbands and undergarments of finely spun linen, 29 and the sash of finely spun linen, embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 30 They also made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and they engraved on it, like an inscription on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD. 31 Then they fastened to it a blue cord to mount it on the turban, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 32 So all the work for the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, was completed. The Israelites did everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 33 Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent with all its furnishings, its clasps, its frames, its crossbars, and its posts and bases; 34 the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering of fine leather, and the veil of the covering; 35 the ark of the Testimony with its poles and the mercy seat; 36 the table with all its utensils and the Bread of the Presence; 37 the pure gold lampstand with its row of lamps and all its utensils, as well as the oil for the light; 38 the gold altar, the anointing oil, the fragrant incense, and the curtain for the entrance to the tent; 39 the bronze altar with its bronze grating, its poles, and all its utensils; the basin with its stand; 40 the curtains of the courtyard with its posts and bases; the curtain for the gate of the courtyard, its ropes and tent pegs, and all the equipment for the service of the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting; 41 and the woven garments for ministering in the sanctuary, both the holy garments for Aaron the priest and the garments for his sons to serve as priests. 42 The Israelites had done all the work just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 43 And Moses inspected all the work and saw that they had accomplished it just as the LORD had commanded. So Moses blessed them.
Study Notes — Exodus 39
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Exodus 39
- Themes from Exodus 39
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Exodus 39
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with the description of the making of the priestly garments, including the ephod, the breastplate, and the turban (Exodus 39:1-31). The craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab, are skilled in various arts and work together to create the garments and the furnishings of the tabernacle. The chapter also describes the making of the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering, and the laver (Exodus 39:32-41). The tabernacle is then assembled, and Moses inspects it to ensure that it is made according to God's instructions (Exodus 39:42-43). The chapter concludes with the completion of the tabernacle and the setting up of the cloud and the glory of the Lord (Exodus 39:32-43).
Context for the Chapter
Exodus chapter 39 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Exodus, which tells the story of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. The chapter is also part of the broader biblical narrative, which points to the person and work of Christ. The tabernacle and its furnishings are types and shadows of the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest.
Heart Application
As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of following God's instructions carefully and striving to create beauty and order in our lives. We are also reminded of the role of human skill and creativity in serving God, and the importance of obedience to His commands. May we be inspired to serve God with attention to detail and a heart of obedience.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Exodus chapter 39 describes the construction of the tabernacle, including the making of the priestly garments and the furnishings. The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully and the role of skilled craftsmen in creating the tabernacle. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the role of human skill and creativity in serving Him. For example, Exodus 39:1-31 describes the making of the priestly garments, which represent the righteousness and holiness of Christ.
Voices from the Church
“The tabernacle was a type of the heavenly sanctuary, and the priestly garments were a type of the righteousness of Christ. Let us look to Christ, who has entered the heavenly tabernacle as our high priest.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The Israelites were instructed to make the tabernacle and its furnishings according to the pattern shown to Moses. This teaches us the importance of following God's instructions carefully, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His commands.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Making of the Priestly Garments (Exodus 39:1-31) — The chapter begins with the description of the making of the priestly garments, including the ephod, the breastplate, and the turban.
- The Making of the Furnishings (Exodus 39:32-41) — The chapter also describes the making of the furnishings, including the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering, and the laver.
- The Assembly of the Tabernacle (Exodus 39:42-43) — The tabernacle is then assembled, and Moses inspects it to ensure that it is made according to God's instructions.
- The Setting Up of the Cloud and the Glory of the Lord (Exodus 39:32-43) — The chapter concludes with the completion of the tabernacle and the setting up of the cloud and the glory of the Lord.
- The Significance of the Tabernacle — The tabernacle represents the dwelling place of God among His people, and points to the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest.
Core Doctrines
- The Doctrine of the Tabernacle
- The tabernacle is a type of the heavenly sanctuary, and represents the dwelling place of God among His people.
- The Doctrine of Christ as High Priest
- Christ has entered the heavenly tabernacle as our high priest, and represents the righteousness and holiness of God.
- The Doctrine of Obedience to God's Commands
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His commands.
- The Doctrine of Human Skill and Creativity
- The chapter highlights the role of skilled craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab, in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings.
Lessons from Exodus 39
- The Importance of Attention to Detail — The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully, with attention to every detail.
- The Role of Skilled Craftsmen — The chapter highlights the role of skilled craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab, in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings.
- The Significance of the Tabernacle — The tabernacle represents the dwelling place of God among His people, and points to the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest.
- The Importance of Obedience to God's Commands — The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His commands.
- The Role of Human Skill and Creativity — The chapter highlights the role of human skill and creativity in serving God, and the importance of using our gifts and talents to glorify Him.
Themes from Exodus 39
- The Theme of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His commands.
- The Theme of Human Skill and Creativity — The chapter highlights the role of skilled craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab, in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings.
- The Theme of the Tabernacle — The tabernacle represents the dwelling place of God among His people, and points to the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest.
- The Theme of Christ as High Priest — Christ has entered the heavenly tabernacle as our high priest, and represents the righteousness and holiness of God.
- The Theme of Worship — The chapter emphasizes the importance of worship and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the significance of the tabernacle in the biblical narrative?
- How does the chapter emphasize the importance of following God's instructions carefully?
- What role do skilled craftsmen play in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings?
- How does the chapter point to the person and work of Christ?
- What practical lessons can we learn from this chapter about obedience to God's commands and the role of human skill and creativity in serving Him?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Making of the Priestly Garments (Exodus 39:1-31)
| 39:1 | The chapter begins with the description of the making of the priestly garments, including the ephod, the breastplate, and the turban. |
| 39:2 | The ephod is made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and is embroidered with skill and care. |
| 39:3 | The breastplate is made of gold, and is set with twelve precious stones, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. |
| 39:4 | The turban is made of fine linen, and is embroidered with gold and blue and purple and scarlet yarn. |
| 39:5 | The sash is made of fine linen, and is embroidered with gold and blue and purple and scarlet yarn. |
| 39:6 | The stones are set in gold filigree, and are engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. |
| 39:7 | The ephod is fastened with two onyx stones, which are set in gold filigree. |
| 39:8 | The breastplate is fastened with two gold rings, which are attached to the ephod. |
| 39:9 | The turban is fastened with a gold plate, which is engraved with the words 'Holy to the Lord'. |
| 39:10 | The priestly garments are made with great care and attention to detail, representing the righteousness and holiness of the priests. |
| 39:11 | The garments are made of the finest materials, including gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. |
| 39:12 | The garments are embroidered with skill and care, representing the beauty and glory of God. |
| 39:13 | The priestly garments are a type of the righteousness and holiness of Christ, who has entered the heavenly tabernacle as our high priest. |
| 39:14 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His instructions. |
| 39:15 | The garments are a symbol of the priestly office, and the importance of the priests in mediating between God and His people. |
| 39:16 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 39:17 | The garments are a symbol of the beauty and glory of God, and the importance of creating beauty and order in our lives. |
| 39:18 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of attention to detail, and the danger of carelessness and sloppiness in our work. |
| 39:19 | The garments are a symbol of the importance of human skill and creativity, and the role of skilled craftsmen in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings. |
| 39:20 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands, and the danger of disobedience and rebellion. |
| 39:21 | The garments are a symbol of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 39:22 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of creating beauty and order in our lives, and the role of human skill and creativity in serving God. |
| 39:23 | The garments are a symbol of the importance of attention to detail, and the danger of carelessness and sloppiness in our work. |
| 39:24 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His instructions. |
| 39:25 | The garments are a symbol of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 39:26 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of creating beauty and order in our lives, and the role of human skill and creativity in serving God. |
| 39:27 | The garments are a symbol of the importance of attention to detail, and the danger of carelessness and sloppiness in our work. |
| 39:28 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands, and the danger of disobedience and rebellion. |
| 39:29 | The garments are a symbol of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 39:30 | The garments are a reminder of the importance of creating beauty and order in our lives, and the role of human skill and creativity in serving God. |
| 39:31 | The garments are a symbol of the importance of attention to detail, and the danger of carelessness and sloppiness in our work. |
2. The Making of the Furnishings (Exodus 39:32-41)
| 39:32 | The chapter also describes the making of the furnishings, including the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering, and the laver. |
| 39:33 | The altar of incense is made of acacia wood, and is overlaid with gold. |
| 39:34 | The altar of burnt offering is made of bronze, and is overlaid with bronze. |
| 39:35 | The laver is made of bronze, and is overlaid with bronze. |
| 39:36 | The furnishings are made with great care and attention to detail, representing the beauty and glory of God. |
| 39:37 | The furnishings are a symbol of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 39:38 | The furnishings are a reminder of the importance of creating beauty and order in our lives, and the role of human skill and creativity in serving God. |
| 39:39 | The furnishings are a symbol of the importance of attention to detail, and the danger of carelessness and sloppiness in our work. |
| 39:40 | The furnishings are a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His instructions. |
| 39:41 | The furnishings are a symbol of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
3. The Assembly of the Tabernacle (Exodus 39:42-43)
| 39:42 | The tabernacle is then assembled, and Moses inspects it to ensure that it is made according to God's instructions. |
| 39:43 | Moses sees that the tabernacle is made according to the pattern shown to him on the mountain, and he blesses the people for their work. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the tabernacle in the biblical narrative?
The tabernacle represents the dwelling place of God among His people, and points to the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest (Exodus 39:1-31, John 1:14, Hebrews 9:11).
How does the chapter emphasize the importance of following God's instructions carefully?
The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully, with attention to every detail, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His commands (Exodus 39:1-31, 32-41).
What role do skilled craftsmen play in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings?
The skilled craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab, play a crucial role in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings, using their skills and creativity to glorify God (Exodus 39:1-31).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exodus 39:1 → John 1:14 | The tabernacle is a type of the heavenly sanctuary, and represents the dwelling place of God among His people. |
| 2 | Exodus 39:32 → Hebrews 9:11 | The tabernacle and its furnishings are types and shadows of the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest. |
| 3 | Exodus 39:1 → Genesis 3:15 | The tabernacle represents the dwelling place of God among His people, and points to the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest. |
| 4 | Exodus 39:32 → Leviticus 16:2 | The tabernacle and its furnishings are a reminder of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 5 | Exodus 39:1 → Numbers 9:15 | The cloud and the glory of the Lord are a reminder of the presence of God among His people, and the importance of obedience to His commands. |
| 6 | Exodus 39:32 → Deuteronomy 31:11 | The tabernacle and its furnishings are a symbol of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 7 | Exodus 39:1 → Joshua 22:29 | The tabernacle represents the dwelling place of God among His people, and points to the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest. |
| 8 | Exodus 39:32 → 1 Kings 8:1 | The tabernacle and its furnishings are a reminder of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
| 9 | Exodus 39:1 → 2 Chronicles 5:1 | The tabernacle represents the dwelling place of God among His people, and points to the heavenly tabernacle, which Christ has entered as our high priest. |
| 10 | Exodus 39:32 → Ezekiel 40:1 | The tabernacle and its furnishings are a reminder of the importance of worship, and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. |
Sermons on Exodus 39
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Exodus) Exodus 39 Introduction by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to study and teach the word of God. He explains that studying the Bible has been a rewarding expe |
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(Exodus) Exodus 39:1-2 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being able to hear the bells of worship on Sunday morning. He criticizes the use of gimmicks and protests in churches and |
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God's Dwelling Place - the Foundation, God's Perfect Love by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the message of Genesis chapter 1, which is that if we allow the Holy Spirit to move upon us and submit to the word of God, our chaotic and me |
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A Bridal Relationship - Part 5 by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of following God's commands diligently, as seen in the Old Testament tabernacle where Moses obeyed the Lord's instructions meticulously, resul |
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A Bridal Relationship by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the invitation of Jesus to come to Him and find rest from religious burdens. He encourages listeners to walk and work with Jesus, learning t |
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The Call to Faithfulness by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of God's call in our lives. He emphasizes that God wants us to walk worthy of this calling, which is demonstrated in four differe |
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The Pins of the Tabernacle. by Andrew Bonar | Andrew Bonar emphasizes the significance of seemingly insignificant tasks in God's work, using the example of the 'pins' of the tabernacle to illustrate that God notices and values |
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From the Exodus Out of Egypt to the Rejection of the Generation by Flavius Josephus | Flavius Josephus describes the construction of the tabernacle and the garments of the priests, highlighting the intricate details and symbolic meanings behind each element. The tab |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Exodus 39
Matthew Henry's commentary on Exodus 39 emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully, and the role of skilled craftsmen in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings. The commentary also highlights the significance of the tabernacle as a type of the heavenly sanctuary, and the importance of worship and the role of the tabernacle in facilitating worship. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of obedience to God's commands, and the danger of adding to or subtracting from His instructions. We are also reminded of the importance of creating beauty and order in our lives, and the role of human skill and creativity in serving God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Attention to detail
The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions carefully, with attention to every detail. This is seen in the making of the priestly garments and the furnishings of the tabernacle.
Skilled craftsmen
The chapter highlights the role of skilled craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab, in creating the tabernacle and its furnishings. This emphasizes the importance of human skill and creativity in serving God.
Obedience to God's instructions
The Israelites are obedient to God's instructions, making the tabernacle and its furnishings according to the pattern shown to Moses. This obedience is a key theme of the chapter.