(16) Thus did Moses.--This verse states generally the fact that Moses carried out the entire series of instructions given him in Exodus 40:2-15, but tells us nothing as to the time at which he carried them out. The passage which follows (Exodus 40:17-33) fixes the performance of the first set of instructions (Exodus 40:2-8) to "the first day of the second year." The narrative of Leviticus 8 shows that the remainder (Exodus 40:9-15) were not put into execution till later.
40:16-33 When the tabernacle and the furniture of it were prepared, they did not put off rearing it till they came to Canaan; but, in obedience to the will of God, they set it up in the midst of their camp. Those who are unsettled in the world, must not think that this will excuse want of religion; as if it were enough to begin to serve God when they begin to be settled in the world. No; a tabernacle for God is very needful, even in a wilderness, especially as we may be in another world before we come to fix in this. And we may justly fear lest we should deceive ourselves with a form of godliness. The thought that so few entered Canaan, should warn young persons especially, not to put off the care of their souls.
according to all that the Lord commanded him, so did he; by which he approved himself to be a faithful servant in the house of God.