Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 28, 2024
In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 7-8. These chapters cover the construction and dedication of Solomon’s temple. The narrative includes details about the temple furniture, but also the purpose of the temple. It was a place of prayer and a home for The Name of Yahweh. These two aspects have important implications when we consider the temple through a New Testament lens. The temple is no longer a building, Christians are the temple. Therefore, we must consider what kind of temple we have become.
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1 Kings 6:38-7:12
This passage's contrast between God's Temple and Solomon's Palace profoundly reflects priorities and honor. The Temple, crafted over seven years, symbolized reverence and dedication to the Lord. Its purpose was clear: to honor God and serve as a sacred place of worship. In contrast, Solomon's Palace, a grand construction spanning thirteen years, seemed to reflect more on Solomon's earthly wealth and status than on glorifying God. This contrast prompts us to reflect on our own lives: Are we building a palace that showcases our achievements and desires with only a token acknowledgment of God? Or are we honoring God with a life dedicated to worship, prayer, and service to God? Let us consider where our true honor lies and whether our lives reflect God's presence and purpose within us.
Reflection: The construction reflected more about Solomon than about God. God was honored, but who was honored more? Which house are you building? A palace to yourself with a little God on the side or a place of worship and prayer? Is your life a place God is constructing in you?
1 Kings 7:13-22
In constructing the Temple, our attention turns to the master craftsman Hiram from Tyre, who played a pivotal role in its intricate design. Central to the temple structure were two massive pillars, Jachin and Boaz, which stood as symbolic reminders that God was the one who established and strengthened. These names carry profound meanings: Jachin signifies "He will establish," and Boaz means "In Him is strength." Adorning the Temple were carvings of palm trees, pomegranates, and lilies, evoking imagery from the Garden of Eden. These Edenic symbols highlight God's unwavering desire to restore what was lost and to rebuild the paradise that was once in perfect harmony with His divine presence. As we reflect on these elements, we are reminded of God's steadfast promise to establish and strengthen us, leading us toward restoring His intended paradise.
Reflection: When we consider God's promise to establish and strengthen us, how does this impact our perspective on challenges in our lives?
How does the imagery from the Garden of Eden used in Solomon's Temple resonate with your understanding of God's ongoing restoration work today?
1 Kings 7:23-51
The sacred furnishings were each rich with symbolism. The altar, central to worship, represented the sacrifices made to God, underscoring the cost of devotion. The laver, or Sea, symbolized purification. The lampstands illuminated the holy place, signifying that God is the true light in our lives, guiding and sustaining us. The Table of Showbread, adorned with twelve loaves, represented God's provision, affirming that He is our ultimate sustenance and the Bread of Life.
Reflection: How does recognizing God as your ultimate provider shape your attitude toward the blessings and resources in your life? How does the imagery of the Altar of Incense, representing the prayers of the saints, influence your view of the significance and power of prayer in your relationship with God?
1 Kings 8:1-11
The Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred and central piece of furniture in Israel's history, was finally placed within Solomon's Temple, marking a profound moment in the nation's history. This sacred chest, symbolizing God's covenant with His people and abiding presence, was positioned in the innermost part of the Temple, the Holy of Holies. The Temple's dedication during the Feast of Tabernacles was a momentous occasion filled with celebration and reverence. As the Temple was consecrated, a cloud, representing God's glory, descended and filled the space, affirming His presence and faithfulness as described in Exodus 40:34-35. This visible manifestation of God's glory was a powerful reminder of His enduring commitment to His people. It calls us to reflect on the sacredness of God's presence in our lives and dedicate ourselves to honoring and seeking Him with the same reverence and joy.
Reflection: Recall when you felt a profound sense of God's glory and presence. How did that experience impact you and your worship? How does the visible manifestation of God's glory at the Temple's dedication challenge or inspire your commitment to seeking and reflecting God's presence? What moments in your life help you celebrate and recognize God's faithfulness?
1 Kings 8:16-20
Solomon reflects on the divine purpose of the Temple, highlighting that it was constructed to proclaim God's Name rather than to elevate Solomon's own legacy. This stands in stark contrast to the practices of surrounding pagan cultures, where temples were often built to appease or manipulate deities for personal gain. Solomon's dedication of the Temple underscores the centrality of God's Name and glory, affirming that the Temple's true purpose was to honor and make known the greatness of God alone. As we reflect on this passage, it reminds us that our own lives and endeavors should be oriented towards proclaiming God's name and reflecting His glory rather than seeking personal accolades or recognition.
1 Kings 8:61-63
Solomon exhorts the people to let their hearts be wholly true to the Lord and obey Him.
We started by contrasting two houses—God's Temple and Solomon's palace. The Temple proclaims God's Name and serves as a house of prayer. The New Testament reinterprets the concept of the Temple. We are the Temple. Ephesians 2:21-22, 3:10; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19
Presence: You are filled with God's presence and carry God's Name.
Purpose: Your purpose is to proclaim God's Name to the world.
Prayer: You are a house of prayer, guided by the symbolic furniture:
Altar of Incense: Represents prayer.
Table of Bread: God is the Bread of Life.
Candlestick: Represents God's light.
Laver: Represents washing with the Word and praying the Word back to the Father.
Altar: Represents Christ's sacrifice.
Ark: Represents God's Covenant and His Presence.
Let your heart be wholly devoted to the Lord as a proper temple. Stop building a royal palace with a little God temple on the side. Let Him fashion you into a place of prayer that carries His Name.