Where Are We? — Exodus 39

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Time & Place

  • Time: 1491 BC (Exod 19:1; 25:8–9)
  • Location: Wilderness of Sinai (Exod 19:1–2; 40:17)

Where Are We in the Text?

  • The chapter records the making of the priestly garments for Aaron and his sons, exactly according to the LORD’s instructions (Exod 28:1–43; 39:1–31).
  • The ephod, breastplate, robe, coat, mitre, and girdle are constructed, with materials prepared earlier (Exod 39:2–26).
  • The holy garments are completed and presented to Moses for inspection (Exod 39:32–43).

Key Persons

  • Bezalel — Craftsman responsible for executing the priestly garments (Exod 31:1–5; 39:1).
  • Aaron — High priest for whom the garments are made (Exod 28:1–4; 39:1).
  • Moses — Overseer who inspects and approves the completed work (Exod 39:32–43).

Where Are We in Time?

  • The chapter occurs during Israel’s continued encampment at Sinai after the covenant renewal (Exod 34–35).
  • Tabernacle furnishings have been completed and attention is now given to priestly attire (Exod 35–38).
  • These events precede the erection of the tabernacle and the consecration of the priesthood (Exod 40; Lev 8).

Where Are We on the Map?

  • Wilderness of Sinai: Location of Israel’s extended encampment and tabernacle construction (Exod 19:1–2; 40:17).
  • Tabernacle Area: Central location where sacred objects and garments are prepared (Exod 36–39).

Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)

  • Israel remains under the Mosaic Covenant with a divinely ordered priesthood being formally equipped (Exod 28:1; 29:1–9).
  • The priestly garments correspond to covenant worship requirements given earlier and now executed in obedience (Exod 25–30; 39).
  • Preparation is underway for regulated national worship centered on the tabernacle (Exod 40:12–16).

Why This Matters

  • The chapter documents complete obedience to the revealed pattern for priestly service (Exod 39:1, 5, 7, 21, 26, 29, 31, 43).
  • It confirms readiness for the formal establishment of tabernacle worship and priestly ministry (Exod 40; Lev 8).

How This Chapter Relates to What Follows

  • Moses will assemble the tabernacle and set all items in order (Exod 40:1–33).
  • The glory of the LORD will then fill the tabernacle, signaling divine approval (Exod 40:34–38).

Summary Orientation

  • Priestly garments are made according to the LORD’s instructions (Exod 39:1–31).
  • The completed work is brought to Moses for inspection (Exod 39:32–41).
  • Moses blesses the work, anticipating tabernacle erection and divine indwelling (Exod 39:42–43).
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