This chapter parallels 1 Ki 5, though it shares more details on certain aspects of the temple preparations.
“Behold, I am about to build a house for the name of the Lord my God and dedicate it to him for the burning of incense of sweet spices before him, and for the regular arrangement of the showbread, and for burnt offerings morning and evening, on the Sabbaths and the new moons and the appointed feasts of the Lord our God, as ordained forever for Israel. The house that I am to build will be great, for our God is greater than all gods. But who is able to build him a house, since heaven, even highest heaven, cannot contain him?” (v4-6)
Solomon is making a treaty with Hiram, King of Tyre and includes some details about the project in his communications. Solomon is praising God in the way he describes the future temple, ensuring to mention that Israel’s God is greater than any other god (most cultures were/are polytheistic) and far greater than any building that could be constructed. Solomon is clear that this is a place of worship, not ‘a place to house God’.
Scripture is clear that nothing we can create with our hands or earthly materials will be sufficient for God. Yet, if we are humble, repentant, and obey His word(s) he will gladly call our hearts His home (see Isa 66:1-2). Paul says that Jesus lives within us, making Him ‘a treasure in jars of clay’ (see 2 Cor 4:6-7).
The grandest, most splendid temple for God and Jesus is our repentant and obedient hearts. I encourage us to humble ourselves, asking God to continue molding and shaping us into these worthy vessels that allow His Light and Treasure to shine forth into this dark world.
Father God, our Ageless and Limitless Lord, You are far greater than any human mind can fathom. Our wildest imaginations cannot grasp Your greatness, yet You humble Yourself and choose to dwell within our fixer-upper hearts. Jesus, thank you for Your loving sacrifice which enables us to have clean/new hearts for Your dwelling place. Thank You for continuing to mold, shape, and reshape us into vessels for Your service. May we honor, praise, and glorify You, shining Your light for all to see, forever an ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training