2 Chronicles 4:19

Solomon also made all the furnishings for the house of God: the golden altar; the tables on which was placed the Bread of the Presence;

Study Bible

So Solomon made
This phrase highlights the active role of King Solomon in the construction and furnishing of the temple. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה (asah), which means to do, fashion, or accomplish. This verb emphasizes Solomon's dedication and obedience to God's command to build the temple, a task initially given to his father, David. Solomon's actions reflect a fulfillment of divine promise and a continuation of the Davidic covenant, underscoring the importance of faithfulness and diligence in carrying out God's work.

all the furnishings
The term "furnishings" refers to the various items crafted for use in the temple. In Hebrew, the word כְּלִי (keli) can mean vessel, implement, or utensil. This indicates the comprehensive nature of Solomon's work, ensuring that every necessary item was prepared for worship. The meticulous preparation of these furnishings signifies the importance of order and reverence in worship, reminding believers of the need for preparation and sanctity in their own spiritual practices.

for the house of God
This phrase identifies the temple as the dwelling place of God among His people. The Hebrew word for "house" is בַּיִת (bayit), which can mean house, dwelling, or temple. The temple was not just a physical structure but a symbol of God's presence and covenant with Israel. It served as a central place for worship, sacrifice, and communion with God, highlighting the importance of having a dedicated space for encountering the divine.

the golden altar
The "golden altar" refers to the altar of incense, which was placed in the Holy Place of the temple. The Hebrew word for "altar" is מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach), meaning a place of sacrifice. The use of gold, a precious metal, signifies the altar's sacredness and the value of worship and prayer. The altar of incense represents the prayers of the people ascending to God, emphasizing the importance of intercession and the sweet aroma of a life devoted to prayer.

the tables
These tables were used to hold the Bread of the Presence. The Hebrew word for "table" is שֻׁלְחָן (shulchan), which signifies a place of fellowship and provision. In the temple, these tables were a constant reminder of God's provision and sustenance for His people. They symbolize the spiritual nourishment that comes from God's Word and the fellowship believers have with Him.

on which was the Bread of the Presence
The "Bread of the Presence," also known as showbread, was a continual offering before the Lord. The Hebrew term לֶחֶם הַפָּנִים (lechem haPanim) literally means "bread of the face," indicating the bread's perpetual presence before God. This bread symbolizes God's provision and the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the sustenance He provides, both physically and spiritually, to His people. The Bread of the Presence points forward to Christ, the Bread of Life, who offers eternal sustenance to all who believe in Him.

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 responsible for constructing the First Temple in Jerusalem, which is the context of this verse.

2. The House of God
Refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites. It was a symbol of God's presence among His people and a place where sacrifices and offerings were made.

3. The Golden Altar
This altar, also known as the Altar of Incense, was used for burning incense in the Holy Place of the Temple. It symbolizes the prayers of the people ascending to God.

4. The Tables
These tables held the Bread of the Presence, also known as the Showbread, which was a continual offering before the Lord, representing God's provision and covenant with Israel.

5. The Bread of the Presence
Twelve loaves of bread placed on the tables in the Holy Place, symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel and God's sustaining presence.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship
The detailed description of the Temple furnishings underscores the importance of worship in the life of God's people. Worship is not just about rituals but about honoring God's presence and provision.

Symbolism of the Bread of the Presence
This bread symbolizes God's continual provision and His covenant relationship with His people. It reminds us of Jesus, the Bread of Life, who sustains us spiritually.

Prayer and Incense
The golden altar of incense represents the prayers of the saints. Our prayers are a fragrant offering to God, and we are encouraged to pray continually, knowing that God hears us.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The Temple was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live in a way that reflects God's presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the Temple and its furnishings reflect Solomon's dedication to God, and what can we learn from this about our own dedication to worship?

2. In what ways does the Bread of the Presence point to Jesus as the Bread of Life, and how can this understanding deepen our relationship with Him?

3. How does the symbolism of the golden altar of incense encourage us in our prayer life, and what practical steps can we take to make prayer a central part of our daily routine?

4. Considering that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, how should this truth impact the way we live and interact with others?

5. How can the continuity of worship practices from the Tabernacle to the Temple inspire us to maintain consistency and faithfulness in our own spiritual practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:23-30
Provides the original instructions given to Moses for the construction of the table for the Bread of the Presence, highlighting the continuity of worship practices from the Tabernacle to the Temple.

1 Kings 7:48-50
Offers a parallel account of Solomon's construction of the Temple furnishings, emphasizing the detailed craftsmanship and dedication to God's instructions.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Discusses the layout and furnishings of the Tabernacle, drawing a connection between the Old Covenant worship practices and their fulfillment in Christ.