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God's Desire to Dwell Among Us
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Discover how Solomon's magnificent temple symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people, leading us to understand His ultimate plan through the Holy Spirit in our lives today.
SOLOMON AND THE HOUSE OF THE LORD g 1 & 2 Kings (Part One) Chapters 1-11 by Sue LeBoutillier Copyright © 2023 Sue LeBouƟllier Published by: Calvary Chapel — Ontario, Oregon
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord gÊSolomon & The House of the Lord g Dear Friend — We’re about to begin a study of the books of 1&2 Kings. The focus of the first eleven chapters is King Solomon. His life and reign consume about one quarter of the enƟre text of 1&2 Kings, which is quite a significant porƟon since there were 39 kings in total. Almost everyone has heard the name Solomon, and most would even understand the phrase, “the wisdom of Solomon.” Solomon did some preƩy amazing things, but the high point of his reign was building a magnificent temple in Jerusalem for the God of Israel. It truly was a significant architectural achievement, but there is actually more to it than just a great temple of stone. The greater significance lies in understanding God’s dwelling places throughout history — from the Garden of Eden, to Mt. Sinai, to the Tabernacle, to the Temple. You might ask, ’Doesn’t God dwell in Heaven?’ Well, yes He does! But God has also desired to dwell among His people. ¨ His first dwelling place in the Garden was compromised by sin. ¨ His next dwelling at Mt. Sinai was only for a short season. ¨ The Tabernacle that Moses built allowed Him a mobile dwelling place with Israel through the Wilderness. ¨ Now that Israel was in the land of Promise, and God revealed the place He would put His name and make His habitaƟon (Deut. 12:5), it was Ɵme for a permanent place for His name and His presence. The history of Solomon’s life will be interesƟng, the details of the temple will be impressive, but what will make this study personal is understanding that God’s ulƟmate plan is to make His dwelling now among His people through His Holy Spirit! These chapters are but one piece of the puzzle, completed by the atonement of Jesus Christ. May the Lord richly bless you as you study His Word! Sue LeBoutillier sue@ccontario.com
How to use this Bible Study Solomon and the House of the Lord — is a verse-by-verse study through 1 Kings 1-11, along with a study of the Tabernacle and the Temple. Whether you are meeƟng with a friend, a small group, or doing this study on your own — the following would be the ideal path: #1 Your first step will be to watch/listen to Week One — IntroducƟon either independently or in your group. #2 Begin Week Two in your Study Guide ¨ Read the assigned Scriptures and answer the quesƟons for each day. This Study Guide is intended to be completed independently before you watch or listen to the teaching associated with each week’s lesson. (Also note the QuesƟons for Thought and Discus- sion for each week). ¨ Then watch/listen to that week’s teaching using the links below. You can do this privately or in your group. ¨ Then discuss the week’s lesson in your group and pray together about applying the passages to your lives. Repeat this process as you do all six weeks in your Study Guide. One last reminder — be sure to approach each of the above steps with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to give you understanding and speak to your heart. The best translaƟon of the Bible to use is the one you understand best, and using more than one translaƟon can be a useful aid in your study! This study guide was created using the ESV (English Standard Version). To watch the video teachings for this Bible Study go to: ccontario.com/womens-studies or YouTube.com/calvarychapelontario
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord “WhenÊyourÊdaysÊareÊfulfilledÊtoÊwalkÊwithÊyourÊfathers, IÊwillÊraiseÊupÊyourÊoffspringÊafterÊyou,ÊoneÊofÊyourÊownÊsons,Ê andÊIÊwillÊestablishÊhisÊkingdom.ÊHeÊshallÊbuildÊaÊhouseÊforÊ me,ÊandÊIÊwillÊestablishÊhisÊthroneÊforever.”Ê 1 Chronicles 17:11-12 Table of Contents Week One — The Plan IntroducƟon Week Two — The Person 1 Kings 1-3 Week Three — The Purpose History of the Tabernacle 1 Kings 4-5 Week Four — The Place 1 Kings 6-7 Week Five — The Promise 1 Kings 8-9 Week Six — The Problems 1 Kings 10-11
Use this page to accompany the Week One teaching video. www.ccontario.com/wow-1-2kings-part1 If you’re studying in a group, the quesƟons on the following page may provide some good discussion starters following the video. The two books of Samuel gave us the history of the first two kings of Israel: The People’s King: _____________ and God’s King: _____________ The two books of the Kings give us the history of ___________________ and ________ kings of Israel ________ kings of Judah Beyond exceeding all other kings in wisdom and wealth, Solomon’s most noteworthy achievement was: _______________________________________________________ The high point in David’s reign is in 2 Samuel Chapter ____ when God made a _____________________ with David. The high point in Solomon’s reign is in 1 Kings Chapter ___ when he dedicates the ____________ of the _____________ and the ___________________ of the Lord returns to dwell with His people. Week One — Introduction — The Plan “Lord,ÊyouÊhaveÊbeenÊourÊdwellingÊplaceÊinÊallÊgenerations.Ê BeforeÊtheÊmountainsÊwereÊbroughtÊforth,Ê orÊeverÊyouÊhadÊformedÊtheÊearthÊandÊtheÊworld,Ê fromÊeverlastingÊtoÊeverlastingÊyouÊareÊGod.” Psalm 90:1
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching — Introduction
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SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord Map of Israel During Solomon’s Reign
Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. Do you find it surprising that Solomon, a child from the union of David and Bathsheba, should be the one whom God chose as the next King of Israel aŌer David? Discuss what that may imply about God’s character. 2. Read 1 Chronicles 22:11-13, where David exhorted Solomon about the task that lay before him. Read Deuteronomy 31:7-8, where Moses exhorted Joshua about the task that lay before him. What are some of the common themes? What are some similari- Ɵes between their two tasks? 3. Read 1 Chronicles 22:19. In what way might you customize this verse to your own life and areas where God is calling you? 4. In what ways did Solomon need the strength and perspecƟve of the older generaƟon to appreciate his calling? In what ways can you uƟlize the strength and perspecƟve of the older generaƟon in your life to appreciate and be inspired in your calling? “AndÊyou,ÊSolomonÊmyÊson,ÊknowÊtheÊGodÊofÊyourÊfatherÊ andÊserveÊhimÊwithÊaÊwholeÊheartÊandÊwithÊaÊwillingÊmind,Ê forÊtheÊLORDÊsearchesÊallÊheartsÊandÊunderstandsÊ everyÊplanÊandÊthought.” ~ 1 Chronicles 28:9
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord The book of 1 Kings begins with a very similar paƩern to 2 Samuel — conflict and conspiracy surrounding the next king over God’s people. Since the Ɵtle of this Study is “Solomon and the House of the Lord”, you can relax because you already know who will ascend to the throne. But one thing we appreciate about Biblical historians is that they do not conceal the struggle and strain that accompany history. This week, we’ll study the first three chapters of 1 Kings. But first, you may appreciate a very simple outline of the enƟre work. 1&2 Kings can easily be divided into three secƟons: ¨ 1 Kings 1—11 — A united Israel under the reign of Solomon ¨ 1 Kings 12—2 Kings 17 — A separaƟon of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel with various kings ruling over each kingdom unƟl Israel was taken into exile. ¨ 2 Kings 18—25 — Judah exisƟng alone with various kings unƟl she too was taken into exile. This Bible study will focus on the first segment — Chapters 1-11 — the united kingdom under King Solomon, whose reign encompasses about one-fourth of the enƟre narraƟve of 1&2 Kings. a READ 1 Kings 1:1-27 — Who Shall Be King? V.1-4— It seems strange (and a bit too personal) to read of an aged king managing his failing circulaƟon with the help of a warm young virgin. But it’s obvious that we’re intended to take note this woman for a later purpose. What was her name? ______________________. V.5-10— We’re introduced to one of David’s sons, who determined he should be the one to inherit the throne. What was the name of the son who declared himself King? __________________________. (Read 2 Samuel 3:2-4 as a reminder of the birth order of David’s sons. By this Ɵme, the first three had obviously perished.) Week Two — 1 Kings 1-3 — The Person DayÊ1:Ê
· What characterisƟcs did Adonijah have in common with Absalom? · Who had Adonijah enlisted to support him as he declared himself King? The Priest: ___________________________ The Commander: ______________________ · Why do you think he singled out Solomon (of all the king’s sons) to be excluded from the feast that he arranged in En-rogel? V.11-27— Nathan the Prophet had already played a prominent role in David’s life. Now again, we find him playing an important part in the successful transfer of rulership. · What do you think may have been the strategy behind drawing Bathsheba into the conversaƟon with David, rather than just telling the king himself? · If David hadn’t been told, or hadn’t taken acƟon, what might have been the outcome for Bathsheba and Solomon?
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord · Who else may have been in peril if Adonijah had been allowed to reign? a READ 1 Kings 1:28-53 — Solomon Anointed V.28-40— There hadn’t been a precedent in Israel yet for a peaceful transfer of power, but David had a plan in mind and this was the Ɵme to execute that plan. · Who was present at the anoinƟng of Solomon? · Where was this anoinƟng held? · Even though David himself was not present, what piece of personal property symbolized his blessing? V.41-53— Obviously, when Adonijah was told, “Solomon sits on the royal throne” (v.46), he knew he was in big trouble! · What acƟon did Adonijah take to preserve his own life? DayÊ2:Ê BlessedÊbeÊtheÊLord,ÊtheÊGodÊofÊIsrael,ÊwhoÊhasÊgrantedÊ someoneÊtoÊsitÊonÊmyÊthroneÊthisÊdayÊ1:48 ...theÊeyesÊofÊallÊ IsraelÊareÊonÊyou,Ê toÊtellÊthemÊwhoÊ shallÊsitÊonÊtheÊ throneÊofÊmyÊlordÊ theÊking...Ê1:20
Solomon is known to us as a man of wisdom. Here, we find that his first recorded words show a natural bent toward prudence. · In what ways did Solomon’s conversaƟon with Adonijah (v.52-53) display wisdom? It is an important life skill to learn how to respond, rather than react, to people. As you read the following verses, note how they instruct us to respond in wisdom, rather than react in emoƟon. Proverbs 15:18 Proverbs 16:32 Proverbs 29:11 James 1:19 a READ 1 Kings 2 — David’s InstrucƟons to Solomon V.1-12— There is something very endearing about one generaƟon passing inspiraƟon and exhortaƟon to another. David finally got his chance to personally encourage his son before he died. · List some of the phrases with which David exhorted Solomon: DayÊ3:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord · What had been the condiƟon of God’s promise to David that his sons would remain on the throne of Israel? · List some of the acƟons of jusƟce that David expected Solomon to perform toward certain people aŌer his death: — Joab — Descendants of Barzillai — Shimei David had reigned _____ years in Hebron and _____ in Jerusalem, for a total of ______ years. V.13-25— These few verses form an intriguing study in both the delusions of Adonijah, and the gullibility of Bathsheba. · Explain why Adonijah’s reasoning in v.15 was duplicitous. · Even though David and Abishag did not have physical relaƟons, what obvious message would have been proclaimed if Adonijah were to possess David’s former sleeping partner as his own wife? SolomonÊsatÊonÊ theÊthroneÊofÊÊ DavidÊhisÊfather,Ê andÊhisÊkingdomÊ wasÊfirmlyÊ established.ÊÊ2:12
Solomon had said that if Adonijah was a worthy man, he would live — this episode revealed his true character. It probably wasn’t easy for Solomon to deny his mother’s request by poinƟng out her naivete. I’m sure he loved his mother, but someƟmes, a leader has to stand back and consider the overall consequences of his/her acƟons, even above family needs or requests. V.26-46— Adonijah’s request became the spark that ignited the flame of jusƟce requested by David. · How did Solomon deal with Abiathar? Read 1 Samuel 2:27-35, as a reminder of God’s judgement upon Eli and his descendants because he had not obeyed God. The removal of Abiathar was the final fulfillment of God’s Word to Eli decades ago. · How did Solomon deal with Joab? · Who became the new commander of the army in Joab’s place? · Who became the new priest in Abiathar’s place? · How did Solomon deal with Shimei? SoÊtheÊkingdomÊ wasÊestablishedÊ inÊtheÊhandÊofÊ SolomonÊ2:46
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord a READ 1 Kings 3:1-15 — Geƫng Things in Order V.1-4— The writer foreshadows future complicaƟons, by introducing us to a new character — a new wife from Egypt. We’re not sure if this is a problem yet or not — only Ɵme will tell. We’re also told about Israel’s sacrifices at the high places — and we wonder if this is also a foreshadowing of future problems. · Why were the people sacrificing at the high places (v.2)? Realizing this, we are hopeful that, once Solomon builds the House of the Lord, this shouldn’t be a problem any longer. Except...it will be. Here is a liƩle informaƟon from the ESV Study Bible on high places. · Read Deuteronomy 12:1-7 and explain God’s original instrucƟons in regard to high places. So, the high places should have all been destroyed. But life some- Ɵmes gets complicated and this situaƟon was complicated as well. Read 2 Chronicles 1:2-6. There, we learn that the Tent of MeeƟng was located at the high place at Gibeon, along with the bronze altar, but the Ark of God was in a tent that David had pitched in Jerusalem. What are High Places? A high place was a publicly accessible structure (an unenclosed altar or a temple with altars) within which, or on which, offerings were made to God or the gods. The conƟnuaƟon and proliferaƟon of these local places of worship (as opposed to the one place of worship described in Deut. 12) is one of the main concerns of the authors of 1&2 Kings. —ESV Study Bible1 DayÊ4:Ê
They were five miles apart and had been separated for many years. God seemed to have looked on this situaƟon with forbearance toward the past and a plan for the future. · Back to 1 Kings 3:3, what do you learn about Solomon’s spiritual state? V.5-15— In Solomon’s dream at Gibeon, the Lord extended to him a simple offer, “Ask what I shall give you.” Solomon’s mind first reflected on God’s faithfulness to his father, David. · To what did Solomon aƩribute David’s favor from the Lord (v.6)? · Summarize Solomon’s request from the Lord (v.9). · Summarize God’s response (v.11-14). AŌer worshipping at Gibeon, Solomon’s next stop was to worship in Jerusalem — before the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord (v.15)! This is thrilling! As we picture Solomon physically connecƟng the dots (with his steps) between the Tent of MeeƟng in Gibeon and the Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem, we are hopeful that he will fulfill his life’s work by reuniƟng all of the elements of the House of the Lord in a permanent dwelling place — a place that God Himself had chosen!
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord a READ 1 Kings 3:16-28 — An Example of ExcepƟonal Wisdom V.16-23— As we move through 1&2 Kings, we’ll frequently run into narraƟves similar to this one — brief but powerful stories intended to punctuate some reality or character quality we’re meant to note. In this case, we observe the extraordinary wisdom that Solomon was given by the grace of God. Two women, who were sharing a living space, brought their case before Solomon. · Briefly describe the problem. The first thing Solomon did was to restate the problem — which is always a wise strategy when hearing a dispute. In today’s words, he may have said, “What I hear you saying is…” V.24-28— Since no one corrected his assessment of the problem, he moved on to a soluƟon. · What was Solomon’s soluƟon to the ‘one child, two mothers’ dilemma? · What outcome do you think Solomon expected? · What was the response of the people of Israel when they heard Solomon’s judgment? DayÊ5:Ê
Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. The book of 1 Kings could have opened with a simple account of Solomon’s anoinƟng, rather than a lengthy narraƟve of tension and trouble. In what ways can we benefit personalizing the diffi- culƟes associated Solomon’s walking out his purpose in life? 2. In 1 Kings 1:6, what do you see in David’s parenƟng that created problems for him as his sons grew? What alternaƟve would you suggest for parents today? 3. Discuss the similariƟes between Adonijah’s and Absalom’s ambiƟons toward the throne. 4. Solomon was put in a posiƟon to say no to his mother (in the maƩer of Abishag), aŌer he had said that he would do anything for her. Discuss the wisdom of puƫng jusƟce, even before family obligaƟon or promises. 5. Solomon acted with courage as he administered the jusƟce his father suggested in the maƩers of Joab, Abiathar, and Shemei. A leader’s display of courage and jusƟce can bring stability in their lives and the lives of others. In what ways might you display cour- age to bring stability into your world?
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SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord The person, whom God intended to replace David as King, had now been firmly established. “So the kingdom was established in the hand of Solomon.” (2:46) Now, we move to the purpose of his reign — the building of the House of the Lord! David had it in his heart to build a house for God, but God said, ’No, your son will be the one to build me a House.’ Building a House for the Lord wouldn’t merely be a maƩer of erecƟng a permanent structure to replace a tent. It would accomplish much more. It would reunite the objects of worship and the symbols of God’s presence in a very significant way that would give Israel the best possible understanding of the relaƟonship God wanted to have with them. We learned last week that the Ark of the Covenant and the Tent of Moses were in separate locaƟons — the tent was in Gibeon and the Ark was in Jerusalem. This was not ideal, and it hadn’t been ideal for a long Ɵme — since the days of Eli, to be exact! The original purpose for the Wilderness Tabernacle was for God to dwell among His people and go with His people into the land of promise. In the days of Solomon, God sƟll desired to dwell among His people in the land of promise, and it was Ɵme to put things back into order and provide a place for that to happen. God has always desired to dwell among His people — from the Garden of Eden right up to today! Today, we no longer seek Him in a temple since He sent His own Son, Immanuel, God with us. Now, God can dwell in us because we are the Temple of God on earth. In this study, we’ll marvel at the high point of Solomon’s project, when the presence of the Lord actually seƩled upon the Temple built in honor of His name (2 Chronicles 7:3). And we’ll see how the House of the Lord temporarily returned a robust worship to the people of Israel. We’ll also learn why it was only temporary. Week Three — 1 Kings 4-5 — The Purpose “ItÊisÊSolomonÊyourÊ sonÊwhoÊshallÊbuildÊ myÊhouseÊandÊmyÊ courts,ÊforÊIÊhaveÊ chosenÊhimÊtoÊbeÊ myÊson,ÊandÊIÊwillÊ beÊhisÊfather.” ~ 1 Chronicles 28:6
The beginning days of this week’s lesson will be a liƩle different than you’re used to. Before we conƟnue our study in 1 Kings, we need to pause and take a look-back in Scripture at the Tabernacle that God had Moses construct in the Wilderness at Sinai. This will help us beƩer understand the relevance of Solomon’s building project. The Tabernacle had been God’s most recent means of dwelling with His people (Exodus 40:38, 1 Chron. 17:5). In this study, I’ll refer to Solomon’s building as the House of the Lord, even though it’s oŌen called Solomon’s Temple. I think we can be a liƩle fluid with our terminology since the Bible itself uses several names for God’s dwelling place. Beginning in Exodus 25 and through LeviƟcus and Numbers, the tent that Moses erected was oŌen called the Tabernacle, but someƟmes called the Tent of MeeƟng, and to con- fuse maƩers more, in the days of Eli and Samuel (1 Samuel 1,3), when it was sƟll a literal tent, it was referred to as the Temple! I like the phrase, House of the Lord. We even call our Churches, ‘the Lord’s house’ someƟmes. But we usually mean a gathering place for worship and learning from the Scriptures. The purpose of the House of the Lord that Solomon built, was a place where God intended to draw near to His people — to literally dwell among them. For the next three days, we’ll look at God’s most recent dwelling place among His people — the Tabernacle of Moses. Having a visual picture of that dwelling place in our minds will help us connect with Solomon’s great task of building the House of the Lord in his day. IÊwasÊgladÊwhenÊ theyÊsaidÊtoÊme,Ê “LetÊusÊgoÊtoÊ theÊHouseÊofÊ theÊLord!” ~ Psalm 122:1 The Wilderness Tabernacle The Tabernacle that God instructed Moses to build when the naƟon of Israel was camped at Mt. Sinai had three main parts to it. ¨ The Courtyard ¨ The Holy Place ¨ The Most Holy Place (or the Holy of Holies) We’ll study one part each day this week and then return to 1 Kings.
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord In the book of Exodus, we read that God delivered Israel out of Egypt and brought them to Mount Sinai. That mountain served as a dwell- ing place of the Lord for a short season. “The glory of the LORD dwelt on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days.” (Exodus 24:16) But God did not intend for either of them to stay at Sinai, so He needed a mobile dwelling place. “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.” (Exodus 25:8) Moses was given a paƩern for that sanctuary (which we’ll call the Tabernacle) and God told him mulƟple Ɵmes to make it exactly the way he was shown. In Exodus 25, God began His instrucƟon with the innermost space, where He would dwell — the Ark of the Covenant. In our studies, however, we will begin from the exterior and study our way toward the inside. Today, we’ll read about the most exterior part of the Tabernacle — the courtyard. We’ll also take a close look at the objects, which were placed within the courtyard and we’ll study their purpose. The Courtyard— (Exodus 27:9-19, Exodus 38:9-20) This was oŌen the name used to describe the enƟre Tabernacle complex. There was a series of poles from which were hung fabric screens, thus establish- ing the exterior boundaries of the Tabernacle. DayÊ1:Ê
This was where the people of Israel would bring their sacrifices and offerings, as described in LeviƟcus. The people would enter through the wide gate (pictured on the previous page) and be met by priests, who would enable them to offer their sacrifices to the Lord. In the overhead perspecƟve below, you can see the outer boundary (poles with curtains) and the three main obects that resided in the courtyard — the Bronze Altar, the Washbasin, and the Tabernacle. We have converted cubits to feet to help us picture the size of the courtyard in units we’re more familiar with. The Bronze Altar— (Exodus 27:1-8, Exodus 38:1-6) Upon entering the courtyard, the first object to be seen was the Brazen Altar or Altar of Burnt offering. It was a hollow framed box made of acacia wood and covered in bronze. It served the very pracƟcal purpose of roasƟng or completely burning whatever sacrifice was brought by the worshipper. The book of LeviƟcus describes several different types of sacrifices — there were sin offerings, guilt offerings, burnt offerings, and grain offerings, as well as fellowship offerings.
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord The different types of offerings required different handling. With some of the offerings, the enƟre animal was to be burned. With other offerings a porƟon was required to be given to the priests. And sƟll other offerings allowed the worshiper to eat his porƟon right there — something like sharing a meal with God. Based on the large populaƟon of Israelites and the mulƟple require- ments for offerings, you can imagine this was usually a busy place. The Washbasin— (Exodus 30:17-21, Exodus 38:8) The next object in the courtyard was the Washbasin, or the Bronze Laver, which was filled with fresh water so the priests could wash themselves from the messy ministry of sacrifices. The dimensions and shape aren’t given in Scripture, but we do know that it was over- laid with bronze and mirrors. to enable the priests to more clearly see their reflecƟon which helped with cleansing. Before any priest could enter into the Holy Place, they would need to clean them- selves in order to approach God’s dwelling place. Today, we come to the Tabernacle itself — the tent within the court- yard. We’ll also study the objects in the first room of the tent. The Tabernacle— (Exodus 26:1-37) This was a tent-like structure in the courtyard, which was covered with layers of animal skins and finished inside with fine linen. This was someƟmes called the Tent of MeeƟng. It was constructed with two rooms — the first was called the Holy Place, as disƟnguished from the next room — called the Most Holy Place, which we will study tomorrow. DayÊ2:Ê
There were three objects inside The Holy Place: ¨ The Table for Bread ¨ The Golden Lampstand ¨ The Altar of Incense This was the LeviƟcal priest’s realm. Once a priest had washed him- self in the washbasin and stepped into the Holy Place to carry out his duƟes, a different world awaited him. The mulƟple layers of animal skins and the fabric that covered the tent would have deadened the surrounding noise to create a very quiet space. The light from the lampstand would have illuminated the room very soŌly, compared to the harsh desert sunlight in the courtyard. The aroma would have been the sweet scent of incense in contrast to the smell of burning animal flesh. And finally, the fresh bread would have brought a comforƟng visual and aromaƟc presence as well. The Holy Place was a place like no other in the daily life of the priests. And only the priests could enter into this space. Table for Bread— (Exodus 25:23-30, Exodus 37:10-16) As one entered the Holy Place, there was a table on the right for the Bread of the Presence. Like the brazen alter, it was also made of acacia wood, but unlike the alter and basin in the courtyard, it was covered in gold rather than bronze. Twelve loaves of fresh bread were prepared and placed on the table each Sabbath. The previous week’s bread was removed and con- sumed by the priests as their porƟon. The Table of Show Bread would have served as a reminder of God’s gracious provision for His people in the wilderness. But it would also fore- shadow Jesus, our Bread of Life, who was God’s gracious provision for any who would receive.
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord Golden Lampstand— (Exodus 25:31-40, Exodus 37:17-24) The light inside the tent was produced by a lampstand, which was posiƟoned on the leŌ. It was craŌed from pure gold for funcƟon and beauty. The lampstand didn’t burn candles the way we think of a lampstand, but rather burned olive oil using a wick. (Exodus 27:20-21) One of the priest’s jobs was to tend to the lampstand so that the light was never allowed to grow dim. The branches of the lampstand stood as a reminder to God’s origi- nal dwelling place with man in the Garden of Eden with its Tree of Life. It also may have reminded the priests of the pillar of light with which God led Israel to the promised land. In a similar way as the bread, the lampstand would symbolize the coming Messiah, Jesus, who declared Himself the Light of the World (John 8:12). Altar of Incense— (Exodus 30:1-10, Exodus 37:25-29) The final object inside of the Holy Place, was also constructed of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. Its purpose was for burning incense. It was located directly in front of the curtains that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. One can imagine a cloud of smoke arising from this altar, creaƟng an addiƟonal visual barrier between the two rooms of the Tabernacle. It stood as a reminder of other clouds in Israel’s past — the cloud surrounding God’s presence on Mt. Sinai (Exodus 24:16) — the cloud leading Israel through the Wilderness (Exodus 13:21) — and the cloud speaking with Moses in the tent of meeƟng (Exodus 33:9).
Finally, in our study of the Wilderness Tabernacle, we journey into the Holy of Holies, the innermost room inside the Tabernacle. During the days of Moses, this was the special locaƟon, where God said He would meet with him, talk with him and give him special instrucƟons for the people of Israel (Exodus 25:22). Moses probably received most of Deuteronomy from talking with God in this inner room. But aside from God’s special relaƟonship with Moses, this inner room was only accessed once a year by the High Priest himself (Aaron and later, his descendants) on the Day of Atonement. (In LeviƟcus 16, you can read more about instrucƟons for the Day of Atonement.) Ark of the Covenant— (Exodus 25:10-21, Exodus 37:1-9) One solitary object resided within the walls of the Holy of Holies. It was another box of acacia wood which was overlaid with gold. On the cover were two cherubim facing each other but looking downward, their wings outstretched and touching (see the image below). The top of the Ark was called the Cover, or the Mercy Seat. Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, the High Priest would enter into the Holy of Holies and smear blood from the special sacrifice on the Mercy Seat, making atonement for or covering, Israel’s sins. DayÊ3:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord Inside the Ark of the Covenant (someƟmes called the Ark of the TesƟmony) were three items: ¨ The tablets on which were wriƩen the 10 Commandments ¨ A jar containing manna from the wilderness ¨ The staff of Aaron, which had budded It was important that the Tabernacle be made exactly as instructed, that’s why we read mulƟple chapters in Exodus explaining God’s paƩern, as well as a detailed history of the building process. The Tabernacle was not only made as a dwelling place for God among His people, but it was also meant to tell a story. If some of the objects were altered, or eliminated, the story would no longer be complete. The writer of the leƩer to the Hebrews connects the dots for us as to the significance of this Tabernacle. Let’s consider these passages to help us even further. Read Hebrews 9:1-12. · What was the purpose for the first secƟon of the Tabernacle? · What took place in the second secƟon and how oŌen (v.7)? · In what way did Jesus act as High Priest (v.11-12)? For additional reading on the Tabernacle itself, You can also read Exodus 26
Read Hebrews 9:23-26. · In what ways was the Tabernacle (Temple) constructed to tell a story of the work of Jesus as our ulƟmate High Priest? There are many other Scriptures that explain that the Tabernacle, as well as the sacrifices and the work of the priests in the first covenant was always meant to prepare people to understand the work of Christ and the new Covenant. Remember, at this present point on our Ɵmeline — the beginning of Solomon’s reign — the Tabernacle was NOT thus arranged! There was a tent in Gibeon and what seemed to be the original altar, but it had become disassociated from the Ark, which was in Jerusalem. This raises some quesƟons in our mind... ¨ Was the Holy of Holies empty in the tent? ¨ Was the golden altar of incense even burning? ¨ If so, what did it conceal — an empty room? ¨ Was there any Day of Atonement without the Ark? We can see that the worship system of Israel had broken down in many ways because the paƩern had become corrupted long ago. We can also see that God had been paƟent with this situaƟon for many years and that Solomon’s current task was very important, having the potenƟal to usher in a great revival among God’s people. Lastly, we can see that David understood all of this and the reuniƟng of the paƩern was on his mind as he inspired his son, when he said, “Arise and build the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the holy vessels of God may be brought into a house built for the name of the LORD.” (1 Chronicles 22:19)
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord Now, we are ready to resume our study of 1 Kings. Chapters 4 and 5 aren’t packed with thrilling commentary like the first three chapters, as they lean toward records and lists, but there will be a few Ɵdbits for us to learn. a READ 1 Kings 4:1-28 — Solomon’s Kingdom Write 2-3 words/phrases that would be accurate descripƟons of Solomon’s reign. I’ll give you one for starters: organized! · · · · According to v.20 and v.25, what benefits did the people of Israel receive from Solomon’s reign? DayÊ4:Ê King David had gathered an abundance of costly resources over his lifeƟme that he handed over to Solomon for building the Temple. But we find, in 1 Chronicles, that he spent his final years preparing for the ministry within the House of the Lord. Chapters 23-26 explain how David organized the Levites and priests for their ministry. He also add- ed the important ministries of musicians, gatekeepers, and treasurers. God had told him that he would not be the one to build a House for His Name. Nonetheless, David applied his energy to make sure that the ministry inside the House would honor God!
a READ 1 Kings 4:29-34 — Solomon’s Wisdom · Write one sentence that summarizes all that God had given to Solomon. · List some of Solomon’s intellectual accomplishments. · What effect did Solomon’s abiliƟes have on the surrounding naƟons? The impact of Solomon’s reign, to this point, seems quite posiƟve. Within Israel, there is a sense of peace, happiness, organizaƟon, and order. The surrounding naƟons seem content to let Solomon be the superpower in the region and they even bring him tribute. All this posiƟvity may condiƟon the reader to view every single acƟon through that same lens — harmony, cooperaƟon, and collaboraƟon — even with neighboring naƟons! That all seems good, right? Well, maybe it was and maybe it wasn’t. We’re leŌ to decide. As we move forward through the coming chapters, and we read how the Temple was constructed, we’ll oŌen glance back to what we learned about the construcƟon of the Tabernacle and consider the comparison of the two. DayÊ5:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord a READ 1 Kings 5:1-18 — CollaboraƟon with Hiram & the DraŌ A character is introduced here that we’ve met once before, when he provided materials for King David’s palace (2 Samuel 5:11). We’re clearly meant to take note of this man since he is menƟoned by name 10 Ɵmes in this chapter and a total of 21 Ɵmes in 1 Kings. · Who is he and where is he from? Tyre was a Phoenician city on the coast known for its wood, wealth and worship — but not worship of Israel’s true God. In fact, it’s king, Hiram was quite a temple-builder — responsible for the construcƟon of a temple to Ba’al Melqart (Hercules)2. Hiram had premium wood but was lacking premium food, so an alliance was formed in both David and Solomon’s day to share resources. We’re leŌ to watch and wonder if this was a posiƟve alliance benefiƟng the building project, or a compromise to rely so heavily on a pagan king. · Why did Solomon believe the Ɵme was right for building the House of the Lord (v.4)? The building project was huge and would require a lot of supplies and a lot of labor. · Summarize how Solomon secured the supplies required. · Summarize how Solomon secured the workforce required. IÊintendÊtoÊbuildÊÊ aÊhouseÊforÊtheÊ nameÊofÊtheÊLordÊ myÊGod.Ê5:5 “BlessedÊbeÊtheÊLordÊthisÊday,ÊwhoÊhasÊgivenÊtoÊDavidÊaÊ wiseÊsonÊtoÊbeÊoverÊthisÊgreatÊpeople.”ÊÊ5:7
Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. Read 1 Chronicles 22:8. What reason was given to David as to why he wouldn’t be the one to build a house for the Lord? 2. Read Deuteronomy 4:5-8. How was the current seƫng in Israel fulfilling Moses words? 3. The words wisdom and wise are used eight Ɵmes in 1 Kings 4. Do you think the phrase ‘Once wise, always wise’ is a true statement? Why or why not? 4. Is there anything you find ominous in 4:26-28? Why? 5. Name one element of the original Tabernacle, whose symbolism you find the most compelling. Explain why. 6. Knowing that the House of God, and the original Tabernacle were places that God intended to dwell with His people, how would you describe the New Testament place that God desires to dwell with his people? 1 Corinthians 3:16 and 6:19
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SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord We’re moving forward now to study more of the reign of Solomon and The Place that became the House of the Lord. Both of these chapters project a lot of detail because the Temple was indeed a magnificent structure. As we read about both the wealth and wisdom applied to the building project, we will be quite impressed. But even in these chapters, the author is subtly suggesƟng that we peer beneath the surface layer of cedar and gold, craŌing and stone cuƫng to assess how Solomon stewarded all of that wealth and wisdom that had been offered to him. God had already appeared to Solomon once at Gibeon, calling upon him to walk righteously and to keep his statutes (3:4-14). A similar appeal is repeated in today’s lesson (6:11-13) and will surface two more Ɵmes in our study (9:1-9, 11:11-13). We are intended to consider these four direcƟves to Solomon. God’s frequent messages should cause us to look beyond the plans, the details, and the success of the building project, and peer into the heart of the builder. The quesƟon is — will we find faithfulness? a READ 1 Kings 6:1-14 — Will You Walk in My Ways? · How long had it been from the Ɵme Israel leŌ Egypt unƟl the House of the Lord started to be built (v.1)? · How long had Solomon had to establish his kingdom before he began work on the House of the Lord (v.1)? These dates would put us around the year 966 BC for the beginning of the construcƟon of the House of the Lord. Week Four — 1 Kings 6-7 — The Place DayÊ1:Ê “WhatÊgoodÊwillÊitÊbeÊforÊsomeoneÊtoÊgainÊtheÊwholeÊworld,Ê yetÊforfeitÊtheirÊsoul?”Ê~ Matthew 16:26
I don’t want to bury us in the details of measurements in this lesson, but there are a few dimensions that we’ll note for comparison’s sake. · Note the dimensions given for the House of the Lord in v.2 and record what you find on the chart on p.44. We’ll add to the chart later in the week. V.3-10— We learn that most of the craŌing and preparaƟons for the project were done off-site. This created a building site without the atmosphere of a typical construcƟon zone. But it was a construcƟon zone, and Solomon certainly must have had his head buried in the details when God came along with a special priority. In v.11-13, God said, “concerning this house that you are building…” and then said nothing more at all about the house itself but turned the conversaƟon to the people and the relaƟonship. God communicated His expectaƟons and stated what He would do in return. It’s easy to idenƟfy because of the classic if/then form. · What did God ask of Solomon? If… · What did God offer in return? Then… The reminder to truly worship God through obedience is relevant for us today. How easy is it for us to get focused on a project we’re doing for God, as if that’s what He requires of us? He could legiƟmately come to you or me today, and bring the same appeal. HeÊhasÊtoldÊyou,ÊOÊman,ÊwhatÊisÊgood;Ê andÊwhatÊdoesÊtheÊLordÊrequireÊofÊyouÊ butÊtoÊdoÊjustice,ÊandÊtoÊloveÊkindness,Ê andÊtoÊwalkÊhumblyÊwithÊyourÊGod?Ê ~Micah 6:8
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord a READ 1 Kings 6:15-38 — Finishing the Inside of the House V.15-22— We learn in these verses how the inner sanctuary was finished. In the Tabernacle, these rooms were usually called the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. The writer uses the terms nave and inner sanctuary here to refer to those spaces. One dimension we find interesƟng is that the inner sanctuary in the Temple was 20x20x20, which is exactly twice as large as the 10x10x10 room, which was the Most Holy Place in the Tabernacle. InteresƟng! V.23-36— More descripƟon of the interior of the Temple. · What new addiƟon do we learn of in v.23? We have already learned about the two cherubim, who were craŌed for the top of the Ark of the Covenant. So these extra, much-larger cherubim don’t seem out of place, but are certainly a new feature. · In the Tabernacle, the doorway from the Holy Place to the Most Holy Place was a veil or curtain. What new feature is craŌed for the entrance to the inner sanctuary of the Temple (v.31)? Doors were also installed at the entrance to the nave, which was the place where one entered into the building from the outside. Now you might be wondering about these new dimensions, changes in design, super-tall addiƟonal cherubim — and we’ll read about even more changes with the courtyard objects in the next chapter. The natural quesƟon a reader might ask would be, “Was this all okay?” “Was there a paƩern given for the Temple, like there was for the Tabernacle?” “Did Solomon just get to add his own flourishes and inspiraƟon?” Let’s invesƟgate some answers... DayÊ2:Ê
¨ First, we find no paƩern recorded in Scripture for the Temple. There was a paƩern given to Moses for the Tabernacle in Exodus. In that paƩern, God said mulƟples Ɵmes, “See that you make it exactly as I’ve shown you!” ¨ We do have a record of David giving Solomon some preƩy specific instrucƟons before he died. Read 1 Chronicles 28:11-19. David said they were from the Lord. ¨ Although the Temple had some size and material differences, the basic system for courtyard sacrifices, the LeviƟcal duƟes related to bread, light, and incense in the Holy Place, and the High Priest duƟes in the Most Holy Place with the Ark of the Covenant were all intact. Perhaps some of the changes that we read about can be aƩributed to the differences between a mobile tent for the wilderness and a permanent structure for Jerusalem — which are understandably very different types of dwellings. Perhaps what God showed David was a blueprint, which allowed a certain amount of creaƟve license in the building process. Perhaps we can find a parallel in the way many of our ChrisƟan Churches look and operate quite differently, depending on geography, economic condiƟon, personality of the pastor, age of the fellowship, etc. As long as the basic tenants of the faith are in place — the people are worshiping, praying, being taught from the Word, and serving one another — God allows quite a bit of creaƟve license. However, we sƟll need to read the narraƟve with an eye toward Solomon’s conƟnued obedience, which is where we begin tomorrow. In the meanƟme, let’s note the historical Ɵme stamp from v.37-38. · How many years did the building of the House of the Lord take from start to finish?
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord At this point in our text, Solomon has been on the throne for eleven years now. Four of those years were pre-building years, while the next seven were filled with construcƟon. When we study the Old Testament, we’re oŌen looking for a spiritual layer that usually lies just beneath the natural layer. In our current text, there is a construcƟon layer on top, filled with descripƟons of materials and dimensions, as well as details of craŌsmanship. Lest we get swept away with all those parƟculars, we’ll use our Ɵme today to reflect on God’s instrucƟons for the spiritual layer of the kings of Israel — specifically how they should conduct themselves. Let’s take a liƩle detour back to the days of Moses in Deuteronomy and consider the instrucƟons that God gave at that Ɵme for future kings of Israel. Read Deuteronomy 17:14-20. We learn that… ¨ God gave permission for Israel to have a king in future years. ¨ The king must be from among the Israelites. ¨ He must be of God’s own choosing. AddiƟonally, according to this passage, what were some of the prohibiƟons and instrucƟons that were given? V.16— He must not acquire many ______________. Specifically, he should not go to which country to retrieve them? V.17— He must not acquire many ___________. What would be the danger in having many wives? DayÊ3:Ê
V.17— He must not acquire excessive __________ and _________. V.18— He should make his own personal copy of _______________. God instructed the king to read His Word all the days of his life. What benefit would that bring? List as many phrases as you can find that would benefit the king’s spiritual life. Now we’ll pause to give Solomon a leƩer grade on how obedient he has been to these instrucƟons up to this point. Read 2 Chronicles 1:14-17 (which takes us back a few years on our current Ɵmeline). · What problem do you find with horses? · What problem do you find with silver and gold? In the next chapter we’ll find a few more troubling parts of Solomon’s life. a READ 1 Kings 7:1-12— Solomon’s Palace Yesterday’s passage in Deuteronomy is an insighƞul passage to have in mind before proceeding because, in chapter seven, we’ll find an abrupt interrupƟon in the Temple narraƟve that will include details about other massive buildings — one of which being a home for Solomon’s EgypƟan wife. It seems like more-than-a-gentle nudge to pay aƩenƟon and think through the implicaƟons of what’s going on. DayÊ4:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord The Temple itself occupied only a small porƟon of the enƟre compound. · It took 7 years for Solomon to complete the Temple. But according to v.1, how many addiƟonal years did it take to build his own house? Complete the chart below by including the dimensions of the structure called The House of the Forest of Lebanon (v.2). This building seems to be a different structure than Solomon’s palace, but v.8 tells us that his house and his wife’s house were ‘of like workmanship’. So all of these addiƟonal buildings were probably a similar size. It’s at v.8 that we should stop to ponder several choices that Solomon made, especially in light of yesterday’s Deuteronomy passage. First, let’s consider Solomon’s EgypƟan wife. When we first read about her in 3:1-3, we wondered if we should be concerned. Now, we find another reason for concern — a house being built for her within the Temple complex. · Understanding that a king of Israel should not even send for horses from Egypt, what are we to think of taking a wife from there and placing her in the worship center of Israel? Dimensions of Buildings (in cubits) Wilderness Tabernacle _____ long _____ wide _____ high Solomon’s Temple _____ long _____ wide _____ high House of the Forest Of Lebanon _____ long _____ wide _____ high
· Secondly, given the fact that a king should not acquire for himself excessive silver or gold, what are we to think of these addiƟonal dwellings that were so massive that they took many more years to complete than the Temple itself? Historians give informaƟon but rarely tell us how to think. Prophets, on the other hand, tell us exactly how to think. · Read Jeremiah 22:15-16 (which was not wriƩen during the Ɵme of Solomon, but during a different king’s reign). How might these words be appropriate for what we suspect is happening currently in Solomon’s reign? a READ 1 Kings 7:13-26 — CraŌing the Temple Furnishings Solomon brought a man from Tyre to create the objects to be used in the courtyard and the temple. This text uses the name Hiram, while 2 Chronicles calls him Huram. This was not the king, but a different Hiram who was half Jewish, and lived in Tyre. Apparently, he was an excellent craŌsman! DayÊ5:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord V.15-22— Two large pillars of bronze flanked the opening of the Temple. · What was the name given to the south pillar? ________________ · What was the name given to the north pillar? ________________ Hebrew names always carry meanings. Reading those names from right (north) to leŌ (south), in the direcƟon of Hebrew wriƟng, the names produce the phrase, “In strength He establishes.” 3 V.23-26— This describes a very large basin, whose diameter was half the width of the Temple itself! It must have been a striking piece as worshipers first entered the courtyard. It rested on twelve cast oxen, three facing each of the ordinal direcƟons with their rears toward the center, probably to symbolize God’s rule over all that exists. V.27-39— There were ten stands and ten basins for washing. This is probably one of the most substanƟal changes in scale from the original Tabernacle, which only had one bronze washbasin. Now there were ten! AddiƟonally, 2 Chronicles 4 tells us that, instead of one lampstand and one table for bread, there were now ten lampstands and ten tables for the show bread. V.40-51— We’re given a summary of all the work that Hiram did for Solomon and where it was accomplished. The final verses build a great excitement for the dedicaƟon of this new House of the Lord, which we’ll read about next week. Even aŌer all the quesƟons we’ve raised about the building of this house, and our addiƟonal concerns about Solomon’s spiritual life, we’re soon to discover that God was willing to physically enter into Israel’s imperfect reality to dwell among them and remind them exactly who He is! NowÊsetÊyourÊmindÊandÊheartÊtoÊseekÊtheÊLordÊyourÊGod.Ê AriseÊandÊbuildÊtheÊsanctuaryÊofÊtheÊLordÊGod,ÊsoÊthatÊtheÊ arkÊofÊtheÊcovenantÊofÊtheÊLordÊandÊtheÊholyÊvesselsÊofÊGodÊ mayÊbeÊbroughtÊintoÊaÊhouseÊbuiltÊforÊtheÊnameÊofÊtheÊLord.Ê ~ 1 Chronicles 22:19
Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. Solomon was reminded by the Lord (6:11-13) to focus more on his relaƟonship with God than the projects he was doing for God. In what way is this relevant to you? In what area of serving is this a challenge for you? 2. In Deuteronomy 17:19-20, we learn that a king of Israel was to review God’s Word all the days of his life. What benefit does daily reading in the Word of God have for you? Share how some of the specific phrases in that verse relate to a ChrisƟan today. 3. Beside the probability that a foreign wife may want to conƟnue worshiping pagan gods, what might be the problem for a king of Israel to have offspring from that relaƟonship? What parallel might this have to a ChrisƟan’s life? 4. The other buildings that were part of Solomon’s project seemed to be larger and took more Ɵme and aƩenƟon than the Temple itself — which causes us to wonder if he got a liƩle carried away. In what areas of your life is it a temptaƟon to get carried away with projects or acƟviƟes that may begin to eclipse your Ɵme and aƩenƟon to serve the Lord? 5. Does it trouble you, or comfort you, that God would come to inhabit this Temple, given some of the imperfecƟons we’ve noted about Solomon and his reign? Why?
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SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord This chapter describes a naƟonal day of celebraƟon as hadn’t been seen since David brought the Ark into Jerusalem many years ago. Everything in this chapter is posiƟve — which I think speaks of God’s magnificent forbearance. We’ve been scruƟnizing Solomon’s life, and already we know it was far from exemplary. But God, in His mercy, sƟll desired to dwell with His people and keep His promise to David. In many ways, the surface layer will highlight celebraƟon and dedicaƟon, and the layer beneath will teach us about God’s long-suffering and mercy. a READ 1 Kings 8:1-11 — The Ark Returns to Its Rest The Ark is the focal point of this passage. It is menƟoned eight Ɵmes in these eleven verses. It would have been possible to simply have the priests move the Ark into its new resƟng place, but an important opportunity for celebraƟon and unity would have been lost. · From v.1-3, what words/phrases describe the unifying effect this feast had on the naƟon? · Who did the actual carrying of the Ark (v.3)? · What acƟviƟes accompanied this transfer of the Ark (v.5)? · What was inside the Ark that represented the covenant that God had made with Israel (v.9)? Week Five — 1 Kings 8-9 — The Promise DayÊ1:Ê
Now think about this for a moment. The Law resided inside the Ark, under the covering called the Mercy Seat. We know that the Law was given to help us understand how far short we fall from God’s requirements (GalaƟans 3:10-13). Write a sentence describing the incredible symbolism conveyed by the Law residing underneath the Mercy Seat. · Describe what happened once the Ark was placed in the inner sanctuary (v.10-11). Consider the compleƟon of the Wilderness Tabernacle and how God revealed His presence in the days of Moses. · Compare v.10 with Exodus 40:34. What are the similariƟes? · Compare v.11 with Exodus 40:35. What are the similariƟes? What a magnificent event! God allowed His presence to descend and fill the House that had been built for His name. ...aÊcloudÊfilledÊtheÊhouseÊofÊtheÊLord...forÊtheÊgloryÊofÊ theÊLordÊfilledÊtheÊhouseÊofÊtheÊLord.Ê8:10-11
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord The Ɵtle of this week’s lesson is The Promise. Today’s text is where the light really shines on God’s promises — menƟoned seven Ɵmes. Solomon menƟons God’s promise given to David, but he also reaches back to the exodus from Egypt to draw a more complete Ɵmeline of God’s steadfast love and care for His covenant people. a READ 1 Kings 8:12-21 — In which Solomon Addresses the People This chapter is almost idenƟcal to 2 Chronicles 6, with one very small addiƟon in the later text. · Read 2 Chronicles 6:13 and describe the arrangement that Solomon had put together for this occasion. As we said, Solomon clearly linked the fulfillment of God’s promise with the naƟon’s rescue from Egypt and he framed his message with that reminder. Complete the missing words from these verses. “Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who with his hand has fulfilled what he promised with his mouth to David my father, saying, v.16 Since the day that I brought _____ ______________ out of _____________ ... v.21 the covenant of the Lord that he made with ______ __________ when he brought them out of the land of ___________ ... There is an interesƟng phrase that surfaces regularly in the Solomon texts (six Ɵmes). It is found here in v.20: I have built the house for the ______________ ____ ______ ____________ It will make a lot of sense as we read on in this dedicaƟon ceremony to hear Solomon speak to God Himself. DayÊ2:Ê a READ 1 Kings 8:22-30 — In which Solomon Addresses God Here we have Solomon turning his aƩenƟon to God and speaking directly to Him. · What impresses you about his first sentence (v.23-24)? · In what ways do you see a posiƟve model for your own prayers? Solomon just spent the beƩer part of a decade building a House for the Name of the Lord, and yet, look at his statement in v.27, “Heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have built!” · What do you think Solomon hoped for as he admiƩed that God can't be contained in a house, but sƟll asked that His eyes and ears would be toward that place? · The very last word in v.30 is the word ________________. In tomorrow’s lesson, we’ll study the remainder of the chapter in which Solomon lists all sorts of situaƟons, where disobedience could be a reality. The God of mercy would remain the naƟon’s only hope. “ButÊwillÊGodÊindeedÊdwellÊonÊtheÊearth?ÊBehold,ÊheavenÊ andÊtheÊhighestÊheavenÊcannotÊcontainÊyou;Ê howÊmuchÊlessÊthisÊhouseÊthatÊIÊhaveÊbuilt!”Ê8:27 ...theÊplaceÊ ofÊwhichÊyouÊ haveÊsaid,Ê ‘MyÊnameÊ shallÊbeÊ there’ 8:29
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord a READ 1 Kings 8:31-53 — Prayer of DedicaƟon—Please Forgive In today’s passage, we’ll study seven situaƟons in which something might not be right in the people’s lives. Solomon menƟoned each of these situaƟons to the Lord and they each have a similar paƩern: ¨ If/when something is not right... ¨ If/when people pray... ¨ Then please hear from Heaven and act or restore We’ll keep today’s lesson simple. Read through each of the seven secƟons, noƟng what is not right, and how Solomon asked that God would hear, act, restore, forgive, etc. V.31-32: V.33-34: V.35-36: V.37-40: V.41-43: DayÊ3:Ê
V.44-45: V.46-53: The text of the final plight is about four Ɵmes longer than any of the other six situaƟons. · If you know the approaching history in the Old Testament, what is strangely propheƟc about this situaƟon of which Solomon speaks? · What reminder did Solomon give God once more in v.51? · Why do you think that was significant? “ForÊyouÊseparatedÊthemÊfromÊamongÊallÊtheÊpeoples ofÊtheÊearthÊtoÊbeÊyourÊheritageÊ…ÊwhenÊyouÊbroughtÊÊÊÊÊÊ ourÊfathersÊoutÊofÊEgypt,ÊOÊLordÊGĔĉ.”ÊÊ8:53
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord a READ 1 Kings 8:54-61 — A BenedicƟon of Blessing These eight verses are worth reading very slowly and intenƟonally. They are a classic example of the benefit we receive in our study when we ask, What does it say? What does it mean? What does it mean to me? · What do you think Solomon meant by his words, ‘God had given rest to his people’, as stated in v.56? · What is significant about Solomon asking for God’s help to incline all of their hearts to him (v.58)? · What was the desired result of Israel walking in obedience and depending on the Lord, as stated in v.60? a READ 1 Kings 8:62-66 — A Send-off of Blessing Can you imagine all of those peace offerings? It was over a seven-day period, but sƟll, that must have been a dedicaƟon like no one had ever experienced before! · Describe the condiƟon of the people, as they all leŌ for their homes. DayÊ4:Ê a READ 1 Kings 9:1-9 — The Lord Appeared to Solomon Right on the heels of the grand dedicaƟon, God appeared to Solomon again. This was the second appearance (similar to the Ɵme at Gibeon when Solomon also worshiped and offered sacrifices). But this is actually the third in a string of similar messages to Solomon — all containing warnings for disobedience or turning toward other gods. God affirmed Solomon’s prayer and honored the House built for his name by consecraƟng it, meaning seƫng it apart as holy. · In v.3, what did God promise to associate with the House? · In v.4-5, what did He promise Solomon and his descendants if he would walk before God with integrity and uprightness? God had consecrated. Now, it was up to the king and the people to obey! In order to make His point clear, God punctuated His message with an unexpected warning of the destrucƟon of the very Temple that had just been consecrated. We’ve already noƟced in our study that Solomon hasn’t been 100% obedient to God’s commands. Once again, we sense God’s abundant long-suffering as He gives extra warnings and extra Ɵme. The core focus of this message is a warning of spiritual and covenantal unfaith- fulness. Consider what God was saying by finishing these phrases: V.6 But if you ___________ ____________ from following _________ V.6 but go and serve __________ ________ and ____________ them V.9 Because they ___________________ the _________ their _______ “BlessedÊbeÊtheÊLordÊwhoÊhasÊgivenÊrestÊtoÊhisÊpeopleÊÊÊÊÊ Israel,ÊaccordingÊtoÊallÊthatÊheÊpromised.”ÊÊ8:56
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord a READ 1 Kings 9:10-28 — A King and a Business Man The rest of this chapter outlines a few things that we should note: · What did Solomon give to Hiram in payment for all of his help with building the temple complex and palaces (v.11)? · Based on what you know about God’s instrucƟons to Israel to conquer the land (since the days of Joshua), how is this giŌ a reversal of God’s command? Another problem we encounter is Solomon’s wife — Pharaoh’s daughter. In this chapter, it merely says that she went up to her own house. · Read also the companion passage in 2 Chronicles 8:11. Why did Solomon think that a change was necessary for her housing? And finally, when all the building was accomplished and Solomon was free to use his Ɵme in whatever way he wanted… · Who did Solomon link arms with in business (v.27)? · For what purpose? · Read Deuteronomy 17:17 again and explain why this is a problem. It will all become more clear in the next and final week’s study, which is enƟtled, The Problem. DayÊ5:Ê
Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. Read John 1:14. What comparison can you make between that verse and the events from these chapters? 2. In what ways did Solomon draw upon the love and faithfulness of God in his prayer? How is that an example for your prayers? 3. In what ways did Solomon lean upon the power of God in his prayer? How can that be an example to you for your prayer life? 4. Solomon asked that God would help incline His people’s hearts to him (8:58). Why would this be a useful prayer in your own life? How does your heart need to be inclined toward God? 5. Solomon stated, in 8:60, that his desire to see God’s work in their lives would be so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God; there is no other. How important is it to you that people see the grace and power of God in your life? 6. Are there any aspects of worship that you have noƟced in these chapters that you feel could be implemented or improved upon in your life?
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SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord It hasn’t been enjoyable to point out the many shorƞalls in Solomon’s life. It may even cause us to reflect more on our own shortcomings, like Solomon said in chapter 8, “for there is no one who does not sin.” We also wonder if it’s even fair to indict him on charges of excesses since it was God Himself who gave him wisdom and wealth (3:12-13). But the quesƟon remains, What did Solomon do with his wisdom? It doesn’t seem as though he applied his wisdom to searching out God’s commands. And what about his wealth? Yes, he built the House of the Lord — but he built an even larger house for himself. Also, you’ll note that the word gold is menƟoned fourteen Ɵmes in chapter ten. Solomon had indeed culƟvated an appeƟte for excess. Is that the worst sin there is, you ask? Maybe not, but God repeatedly warned Solomon about his excesses and their consequences. God had been long-suffering for twenty-plus years! Now, we have the sad task of witnessing his kingdom unravel. But first, along comes the Queen of Sheba to remind us that pride comes before the fall! a READ 1 Kings 10:1-13 — The Queen of Sheba V.1-8— Everything on the surface of these verses seems fantasƟc! What a posiƟve representaƟve of the Lord, Solomon must have seemed to the Queen of Sheba. · What were some of the aspects of her visit that really made an impression on her? DayÊ1:Ê Week Six — 1 Kings 10-11 — The Problem
V.9-13— The Queen of Sheba praised Solomon’s God for making him King and making him a successful king. She gave him an abundance of giŌs and also received an abundance of giŌs from Solomon. · What do you think the Queen’s praise may have been intended to produce? V.11-12— We find an abrupt interrupƟon, in the narraƟve of Solomon and the Queen, giving and receiving giŌs, to menƟon Hiram again. · What do you think the author may have intended us to think about that? a READ 1 Kings 10:14-29 — Solomon’s Great Wealth This is the focus of Solomon’s life now — hobnobbing with other wealthy poliƟcal figures and merchants — making deals — receiving lavish and exoƟc products from faraway lands. · We never want to make more of some detail than we should, but what is suspicious about the weight of the gold told us in v.14? DayÊ2:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord Shields are very important to a successful military. Since gold isn’t actually a very hard metal, bronze may have made a sturdier shield if hand-to-hand combat was in view. · What do you suppose was the purpose of all of those gold shields that were placed in the House of the Forest of Lebanon? · List some of the other excesses and extravagances that were detailed in v.18-22. V.26-29— This secƟon concludes with a record of the horses, chariots and aƩending horsemen that were part of Solomon’s collecƟon and business. We already considered God’s prohibiƟon in Deuteronomy about not sending His people down to Egypt for horses, which would be a reversal of God’s deliverance out of Egypt, in which He drowned the horses and chariots in the sea. · Also read Psalm 20:7 (which Solomon’s father penned) and Isaiah 31:1-3 and explain why this final summary is so troubling. ThereÊisÊaÊwayÊthatÊseemsÊrightÊtoÊaÊman,Ê butÊit’sÊendÊisÊtheÊwayÊtoÊdeath.ÊÊ~ÊProverbs 14:12 a READ 1 Kings 11:1-8 — Solomon Turns from the Lord Of all the prohibiƟons from Deuteronomy 17 that Solomon violated, we hadn’t yet technically read about many wives. We were troubled that he took a wife from Egypt, but now, in v.1, our suspicions are confirmed — he had crossed the forbidden boundaries on all counts. · To drive home the example of his excesses, list all of the naƟons from which Solomon took wives (v.1). · Why did God forbid marriage between His people and the people from the surrounding naƟons (v.2)? · Record the tally of Solomon’s partners: ________ wives (princesses) ______ concubines. · What did Solomon do to help his wives worship their gods (v.7-8)? · What was the spiritual result of his affecƟon for all these foreign women (v.3-4)? DayÊ3:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord In v.6, we are told that what Solomon did was evil in the sight of the Lord. That phrase begins here and will be used almost three dozen Ɵmes in the remainder of 1&2 Kings to describe the acƟons of future kings and the people of Israel themselves. · Given the immediate context of this passage, explain the significance of this phrase. a READ 1 Kings 11:9-25 — Hadad and Rezon The Lord is long-suffering with His people’s failures, and He has been paƟent with Solomon for a couple of decades now. He’s also warned him twice via personal visits! Now, the aspect of God’s character that rises to the surface is that of a Father who is unwilling to tolerate disobedience indefinitely but must resort to discipline. · Why was the Lord’s anger kindled (v.9)? · What was the Lord’s disciplinary acƟon against Solomon (v.11)? DayÊ4:Ê WhenÊanÊunbelieverÊsins,ÊtheyÊareÊmerelyÊwalkingÊinÊstepÊ withÊtheirÊnature.ÊButÊwhenÊGod’sÊchildrenÊcommitÊevil,Ê theyÊdoÊdamageÊtoÊtheÊnameÊofÊGod.Ê
· What was the one vesƟge of the kingdom that God intended to preserve (v.13)? V.14–22— We’re given the back story of Hadad the Edomite, a man God would use as a disciplinary force from the south in Solomon’s kingdom once Solomon, himself, was gone. We learn that Pharoah is an equal opportunity treaty-maker and wife-giver to not only Israel, but also Edom. V.23-25— We also learn the backstory of Rezon of Syria, another adversary whom God would use for His purpose, from the north. As the narraƟve moves on, neither of these two men amount to much more than an adversarial nuisance. But perhaps their inclusion here is meant to signal that God’s hand of protecƟon from Israel’s enemies was beginning to be liŌed. a READ 1 Kings 11:26-43 — Jeroboam and Reheboam Immediately, we’re introduced, by name, to a third adversary that will amount to something! · What was the name of Solomon’s servant in v.26? · Describe some of his aƩributes from v.28 that likely could have appealed to Solomon. · Name the prophet who is introduced in v.29. Ahijah demonstrated what was to come with an object lesson from a torn garment. DayÊ5:Ê
SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord Comment on the surprising amount of detail given to Jeroboam. · What would happen (v.31-32)? · Why would it happen (v.33)? · When would it happen (v.34-35)? · Who would receive the remaining tribe (v.36)? · Who would receive the rest of the naƟon of Israel (v.37)? Surprisingly, God not only offered the majority of the naƟon to a man who was NOT a descendant of David, but then promised him a sure house if he would only follow God’s ways. Obviously, Solomon felt the threat and Jeroboam had to flee unƟl the fullness of Ɵme when Solomon breathed his last. This is not a saƟsfying place to end — but from this point through the remainder of the Old Testament, there is precious liƩle saƟsfacƟon found in the story of God’s desire to dwell among His people! UNTIL, we turn the page to the Gospels and find Jesus Himself entering into Israel’s reality, entering the Temple once more, bringing the promise that God’s plan to dwell with (in) His people was about to be fulfilled. My prayer is that you’ve invited God to come dwell with you in your own heart through the forgiveness of Jesus, and that you treasure that reality and abide richly in Him as well! UnƟl our next study — be blessed and dwell safely in God’s presence! Sue
Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. There are many ways in which Solomon’s life was different than our lives — but one striking feature is that his life was devoid of trouble (for the most part). Read James 1:1-5 and explain how a life that includes trouble may be superior to a life of ease. 2. Read MaƩhew 6:28-30. How did Jesus view the wealth and splen- dor of Solomon? What does that mean for your life? 3. David was a man aŌer God’s heart and Solomon was the wisest man who lived, yet neither of them was able to walk completely upright before God. Discuss what this teaches us about man- kind’s need for a Savior. 4. What are some of the most useful lessons that you can apply in your own life, as you have studied Solomon’s mistakes? 5. Taking these eleven chapters as a whole, share with your group the character trait of God you have found most prominent and explain why. ForÊweÊareÊtheÊtempleÊofÊtheÊlivingÊGod;ÊasÊGodÊsaid,Ê “IÊwillÊmakeÊmyÊdwellingÊamongÊthemÊandÊwalkÊamongÊ them,ÊandÊIÊwillÊbeÊtheirÊGod,ÊandÊtheyÊshallÊbeÊmyÊpeople.” ~ 2 Corinthians 6:16
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SolomonÊandÊtheÊHouseÊofÊtheÊLord RĊċĊėĊēĈĊĘ ESV Bible verses: Scripture quotaƟons are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Cross- way, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permis- sion. All rights reserved. NIV Bible verses: Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNA- TIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 1— The ESV Study Bible: English standard version, Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Bibles, 2008 2— Bradshaw, Robert I., The City of Tyre in History and Prophecy hƩps://biblicalstudies.org.uk/arƟcle_tyre.html 3— Olley, john W., The Message of 1 Kings, Intervarsity Press, Norton Street, Noƫngham, NG7 3HR, England Map on p.8 courtesy of Alexander Cooney Drawings on p.24-29 courtesy of Miriam Barbee
The following WOW Bible Studies wriƩen by Sue LeBouƟllier are available through the Calvary Chapel Ontario bookstore, and through our online store at www.ccontario.com. Old Testament: · Genesis — Divine Design, From Eden to Egypt · Exodus — Divine Deliverance, From Egypt to Sinai · Numbers —The Wilderness Way, From Sinai to the Jordan · Joshua —The Path of Promise, From the Jordan into Canaan · Judges — A Time of Turning · Ruth — Walking with My Redeemer · 1 Samuel — The Coming King · 2 Samuel — The Reigning King · 1 & 2 Kings (Part One) — Solomon and the House of the Lord · Jonah —The Call of Compassion New Testament: · The Way of Jesus — The Sermon on the Mount from MaƩhew · Simply Jesus — The “I AMs” of Christ in the Gospel of John · Acts — Walking in the Spirit, The First Days of the Last Days · Romans 12 — Living with Purpose · GalaƟans — Finding Grace in a Demanding World · Philippians — Finding Joy in a Disjointed World · Colossians — Finding Stability in a Changing World · Titus — While We Wait · James — Real Faith for Daily Life · 1 & 2 Peter — Hope, Holiness and Humility in a HosƟle World · 1,2,3 John — Light, Love and Logic, Lessons from the Apostle John Women of the Word Bible Studies
Empowered to Live the Extraordinary
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Steadfast in Christ's Unchanging Truth
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Living Out God's Purpose in Grace
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God's Quiet Hand in Our Lives
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From Bondage to Freedom
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Grace in a Demanding World
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