Introduction

The conclusion of the book of Exodus reveals a momentous intersection of divine presence and human limitation. This passage, Exodus 40:35, marks a significant event in Israel's history, depicting the culmination of the tabernacle's construction and the dwelling of God's glory among His people. This commentary will explore various insights from classic public domain commentaries, particularly those of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

Moses’ Inability to Enter

The verse explicitly states that Moses could not enter the tent of meeting due to the overwhelming presence of the cloud and the glory of the Lord. This highlights the sanctity of God's presence:

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes that Moses, despite his leadership role and profound relationship with God, was made aware of the divine holiness. It serves as a reminder of the distinction between God’s infinite holiness and human imperfection.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes remarks that Moses, who had previously spoken with God face to face, was now unable to enter. This suggests the overwhelming nature of God's glory, which transcends human capacity and showcases the severity of God’s holiness.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the implications of the cloud. He points out that the cloud represents God’s guidance and presence; yet its intensity illustrates the need for reverence in approaching God.

The Cloud and the Glory of the Lord

The cloud symbolizes God's presence and serves as a protective barrier between the divine and the human:

• Matthew Henry: He draws attention to the theological significance of the cloud as a divine manifestation that brought both guidance and protection. It served as evidence of God’s covenant and His commitment to dwell among His people.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes comments that the cloud's presence signified God's approach, yet also reminded the Israelites of their need for purification and their limitations in God’s presence. It illustrated God's desire to dwell with His people while also setting boundaries.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke adds that the glory of the Lord filling the tabernacle was a manifestation of God’s majesty and holiness. This event evoked a sense of awe and reverence among the people, indicating that the worshippers needed to approach God with humility.

Theological Significance

This verse brings forth profound theological implications for understanding God's relationship with humanity:

• Divine Holiness: The inability of Moses to enter the tabernacle underscores the concept of divine holiness. God's presence demands reverence, reminding believers of the need for holiness in their own lives before approaching the divine.
• Access to God: While Moses was unable to enter, this foreshadows a deeper theological truth found in Christ. Believers today recognize that through Christ’s sacrifice, the barriers are lifted, granting access to the holy of holies (Hebrews 10:19-22).
• God’s Presence Among His People: The cloud and glory reveal God’s desire to dwell with His people. It emphasizes the importance of community worship and the collective experience of God’s presence.

Pastoral Applications

For pastors and church leaders, this passage provides several applications:

• Encourage Reverence in Worship: Like Moses, congregations must be reminded of God’s holiness. A culture of reverence in worship encourages individuals to approach God with awe and respect.
• Teach the Balance of Accessibility and Holiness: It is essential to convey that while Christ provides access to God, the essence of God's holiness must not be neglected. Pastors should guide their congregations in understanding both aspects.
• Promote Community Worship: The significance of corporate worship as a community should be emphasized. Just as the Israelites experienced God's presence together, congregations today must gather collectively to encounter His glory.

Conclusion

Exodus 40:35 serves as a profound reminder of the great gulf that exists between a holy God and His people. Through classic commentaries, we are reminded of the sacredness associated with divine encounters. As Moses stood outside the tabernacle, the fullness of God’s glory beckons believers to reflect on both their access to God through Christ and the continued need for reverence in His presence. The insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke profoundly enrich our understanding, making this passage an enduring source of reflection for theologians, pastors, and students alike.