1 Kings 7:11
Above these were high-grade stones, cut to size, and cedar beams.
Above
This word indicates a position of elevation or superiority, suggesting that the construction described is not only physically higher but also of greater importance or quality. In the context of Solomon's temple and palace, the use of superior materials in the upper sections signifies the grandeur and divine significance of these structures. Theologically, it can remind us of the heavenly nature of God's dwelling place, which is above all earthly concerns.

high-grade stones
The Hebrew term here refers to stones of exceptional quality, often used in significant construction projects in ancient times. These stones were likely quarried with great care and precision, reflecting the dedication and resources Solomon invested in building the temple and his palace. Historically, such stones were a symbol of wealth and stability, indicating that the kingdom was prosperous and secure under Solomon's reign. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for the believer's life, built on the solid foundation of faith and the Word of God.

cut to size
This phrase implies precision and intentionality in the construction process. The stones were not just any stones; they were specifically shaped and fitted for their purpose. This reflects the meticulous planning and divine wisdom that Solomon was known for. In a broader sense, it can symbolize how God shapes and prepares each believer for their unique role in His kingdom, fitting them perfectly into His divine plan.

and cedar
Cedar wood was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its durability, fragrance, and resistance to decay. It was often used in the construction of temples and palaces, signifying strength and longevity. The use of cedar in Solomon's building projects underscores the permanence and beauty intended for these sacred spaces. Biblically, cedar is often associated with majesty and glory, reminding us of the eternal nature of God's kingdom and His enduring presence with His people.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
The king of Israel who commissioned the building of the temple and his palace. His reign is marked by wisdom and prosperity.

2. Temple of Solomon
A significant structure in Jerusalem, representing God's presence among His people. It was a place of worship and sacrifice.

3. Cedar Wood
A valuable and durable material used in ancient construction, symbolizing strength and longevity.

4. High-Grade Stones
Carefully selected and crafted stones, representing the quality and care in the construction of the temple.

5. Jerusalem
The city where the temple was built, serving as the spiritual and political center of Israel.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Quality in Worship
Just as Solomon used high-grade materials for the temple, our worship and service to God should be of the highest quality, reflecting our reverence and love for Him.

Symbolism of Materials
The use of cedar and stone in the temple construction symbolizes strength, durability, and beauty. In our spiritual lives, we should seek to build with materials that endure, such as faith, hope, and love.

God's Dwelling Place
The temple was a physical representation of God's presence. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live lives that honor and reflect God's holiness.

Continuity of God's Plan
The construction of the temple is part of God's unfolding plan of redemption, pointing forward to Christ and the establishment of the church as His spiritual temple.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the use of high-grade stones and cedar wood in the temple's construction reflect the nature of our worship and service to God today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives, as temples of the Holy Spirit, are built with materials that reflect God's holiness and glory?

3. How does the construction of Solomon's temple connect to the New Testament understanding of the church as a spiritual temple?

4. What lessons can we learn from the continuity of God's dwelling place from the Tabernacle to the Temple to the Church?

5. How can we apply the principles of quality and care in the construction of the temple to our personal spiritual growth and community worship?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Kings 6
Provides context for the construction of the temple, detailing the materials and dimensions, emphasizing the grandeur and holiness of the structure.

Exodus 25-27
Describes the construction of the Tabernacle, the precursor to the temple, highlighting the continuity of God's dwelling place among His people.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Relates to the concept of believers as the temple of God, emphasizing holiness and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 2:19-22
Discusses the church as a spiritual temple, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone.
Building God's House and One's OwnJ. Parker, D. D.1 Kings 7:1-12
The Satisfaction of Completing a Work1 Kings 7:1-12
People
Boaz, David, Hiram, Huram, Jachin, Naphtali, Pharaoh, Solomon
Places
Hall of Judgment, Hall of Pillars, Hall of the Throne, House of the Forest of Lebanon, Jordan River, Most Holy Place, Succoth, Tyre, Zarethan
Topics
Beams, Cedar, Cedars, Cedar-wood, Costly, Cut, Hewed, Hewn, Highly, Measure, Measurement, Measures, Overhead, Precious, Priced, Size, Stone, Stones, Wood
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Kings 7:1-12

     5207   architecture
     5437   palaces
     5776   achievement

1 Kings 7:9-12

     4366   stones
     5340   house

1 Kings 7:9-14

     5212   arts and crafts

1 Kings 7:11-12

     4424   cedar

Library
Gadara
There was a double Gadara. One at the shore of the Mediterranean sea: that was first called Gezer, 1 Kings 9:15. In Josephus, "Simon destroyed the city Gazara, and Joppe, and Jamnia."--And in the Book of the Maccabees, "And he fortified Joppe, which is on the sea, and Gazara, which is on the borders of Azotus." At length, according to the idiom of the Syrian dialect, Zain passed into Daleth; and instead of Gazara, it was called Gadara. Hence Strabo, after the mention of Jamnia, saith, "and there
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
BY REV. W. J. TOWNSEND, D.D. The Temple of Solomon was the crown of art in the old world. There were temples on a larger scale, and of more massive construction, but the enormous masses of masonry of the oldest nations were not comparable with the artistic grace, the luxurious adornments, and the harmonious proportions of this glorious House of God. David had laid up money and material for the great work, but he was not permitted to carry it out. He was a man of war, and blood-stained hands were
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known

Whether any Preparation and Disposition for Grace is Required on Man's Part?
Objection 1: It would seem that no preparation or disposition for grace is required on man's part, since, as the Apostle says (Rom. 4:4), "To him that worketh, the reward is not reckoned according to grace, but according to debt." Now a man's preparation by free-will can only be through some operation. Hence it would do away with the notion of grace. Objection 2: Further, whoever is going on sinning, is not preparing himself to have grace. But to some who are going on sinning grace is given, as is
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

A Discourse of the House and Forest of Lebanon
OF THE HOUSE OF THE FOREST OF LEBANON. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. That part of Palestine in which the celebrated mountains of Lebanon are situated, is the border country adjoining Syria, having Sidon for its seaport, and Land, nearly adjoining the city of Damascus, on the north. This metropolitan city of Syria, and capital of the kingdom of Damascus, was strongly fortified; and during the border conflicts it served as a cover to the Assyrian army. Bunyan, with great reason, supposes that, to keep
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Adam and Zaretan, Joshua 3
I suspect a double error in some maps, while they place these two towns in Perea; much more, while they place them at so little a distance. We do not deny, indeed, that the city Adam was in Perea; but Zaretan was not so. Of Adam is mention, Joshua 3:16; where discourse is had of the cutting-off, or cutting in two, the waters of Jordan, that they might afford a passage to Israel; The waters rose up upon a heap afar off in Adam. For the textual reading "In Adam," the marginal hath "From Adam." You
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

That the Ruler Should be a Near Neighbour to Every one in Compassion, and Exalted Above all in Contemplation.
The ruler should be a near neighbour to every one in sympathy, and exalted above all in contemplation, so that through the bowels of loving-kindness he may transfer the infirmities of others to himself, and by loftiness of speculation transcend even himself in his aspiration after the invisible; lest either in seeking high things he despise the weak things of his neighbours, or in suiting himself to the weak things of his neighbours he relinquish his aspiration after high things. For hence it is
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.),
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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