There are blessed combinations in these verses. The presence of God starts to fill up this newly completed Temple. God has arrived! Without God’s glory the building is useless.

1 – Wonder and Word (vs. 1-13)

The Ark of the Covenant was the most important furniture in the Temple. The building was impressive and had a “wow” factor but it meant nothing without the presence of God and His Word.

2 – Faithfulness and Anticipation (vs. 14-26)

Future faith is encouraged by past experiences. Much of this Temple is about remembrance. He is the same God! He will bless in the future because He has blessed in the past.

3 – Transcendence and Intimacy (vs. 27-30)

This great Temple cannot hold God! There is nothing built by man that can contain Him. Yet, God hears our individual prayers! Heaven and Earth cannot contain God, yet God can be intimate in our hearts. God is not too big to not be bothered! He can manage the universe and our lives!

4 – Justice and Grace (vs. 31-53)

There are seven things that God’s people may do that are not right. Solomon is asking “What if”, in the future. Solomon knows that the people will fail as they are a work in progress, even if the Temple has now been completed. Solomon asks for forgiveness.

5 – One and All (vs. 41-43)

This Temple will be a beacon to those outside of Israel. Israel is to be a light to the nations. Through Jesus it will become a reality.

6 – Then and Now (vs. 54-61)

God is recognised in the past and present. He meets the prayers for daily need. He has done it in the past. He promises to do it in the future. He can do it today! Wow! What a God. He is incredible.

Categories: 1 Kings