1 Kings 6:14

So Solomon built the temple and finished it.

Study Bible

So Solomon built the temple
Solomon, the son of David, was chosen by God to build the temple, a task that David had desired but was not permitted to complete (1 Chronicles 28:3-6). The temple was to be a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and a central place of worship for Israel. This construction fulfilled the promise God made to David that his son would build a house for His name (2 Samuel 7:12-13). The temple was located in Jerusalem, on Mount Moriah, the site where Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac (2 Chronicles 3:1), symbolizing a place of divine provision and covenant. The temple's construction began in the fourth year of Solomon's reign and took seven years to complete (1 Kings 6:1, 38). This project was a monumental task, involving vast resources and labor, reflecting the wealth and wisdom of Solomon's reign.

and finished it.
The completion of the temple signified the fulfillment of God's promise and the establishment of a central place for worship and sacrifice in Israel. The phrase "finished it" indicates that Solomon completed the temple according to the detailed plans given by God, ensuring that every aspect was in accordance with divine specifications (1 Chronicles 28:11-19). The temple's completion was a significant event in Israel's history, marking a period of peace and prosperity. It also prefigures the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who referred to His body as the temple (John 2:19-21), indicating that He is the true dwelling place of God among humanity. The temple's completion also foreshadows the eschatological promise of the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell with His people eternally (Revelation 21:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, he was chosen by God to build the temple in Jerusalem, a task his father David was not permitted to complete.

2. The Temple
Also known as Solomon's Temple, this was the first temple built for the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem. It served as the central place of worship and sacrifice for the Israelites and symbolized God's presence among His people.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, chosen by God as the place where His name would dwell. It became the spiritual and political center of the nation under King David and Solomon.

4. The Building Process
The construction of the temple was a significant event in Israel's history, taking seven years to complete. It involved detailed planning, skilled labor, and vast resources, reflecting the importance of the temple in Israelite worship.

5. Completion of the Temple
The completion of the temple marked a fulfillment of God's promise to David and a pivotal moment in Israel's history, establishing a permanent place for worship and the Ark of the Covenant.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Calling
Solomon's dedication to building the temple demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's specific callings in our lives. We are encouraged to pursue our God-given tasks with diligence and faithfulness.

The Significance of Worship
The temple was central to Israel's worship, reminding us of the importance of prioritizing worship in our own lives. Worship is not just a ritual but a vital expression of our relationship with God.

God's Faithfulness
The completion of the temple is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. We can trust that God will accomplish His purposes in our lives, even when the process is long and challenging.

Preparation and Planning
The detailed planning and resources required for the temple's construction teach us the value of preparation and stewardship in our endeavors for God's kingdom.

The Presence of God
The temple symbolized God's presence among His people. Today, as believers, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live in a way that reflects His presence in us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's obedience in building the temple inspire you to pursue God's calling in your own life?

2. In what ways can you prioritize worship in your daily routine, reflecting the centrality of the temple in Israelite worship?

3. How does the completion of the temple encourage you to trust in God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises in your life?

4. What steps can you take to better prepare and plan for the tasks God has given you, following Solomon's example?

5. How does understanding that you are a temple of the Holy Spirit impact the way you live and interact with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 7
God's covenant with David, where He promises that David's son would build a house for His name, directly connects to Solomon's task of building the temple.

1 Chronicles 28-29
David's preparation for the temple, including gathering materials and instructing Solomon, highlights the continuity of God's plan through David's lineage.

2 Chronicles 3-4
Provides a parallel account of the temple's construction, offering additional details about its design and significance.

Exodus 25-31
The instructions for the Tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple, show the continuity of God's dwelling place among His people.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its fulfillment in Christ, drawing a connection between the temple and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus.