1 Kings 6
BSB1 In the four hundred and eightieth year after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt, in the month of Ziv, the second month of the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, he began to build the house of the LORD. 2 The house that King Solomon built for the LORD was sixty cubits long, twenty cubits wide, and thirty cubits high. 3 The portico at the front of the main hall of the temple was twenty cubits long, extending across the width of the temple and projecting out ten cubits in front of the temple. 4 He also had narrow windows framed high in the temple. 5 Against the walls of the temple and the inner sanctuary, Solomon built a chambered structure around the temple, in which he constructed the side rooms. 6 The bottom floor was five cubits wide, the middle floor six cubits, and the third floor seven cubits. He also placed offset ledges around the outside of the temple, so that nothing would be inserted into its walls. 7 The temple was constructed using finished stones cut at the quarry, so that no hammer or chisel or any other iron tool was heard in the temple while it was being built. 8 The entrance to the bottom floor was on the south side of the temple. A stairway led up to the middle level, and from there to the third floor. 9 So Solomon built the temple and finished it, roofing it with beams and planks of cedar. 10 He built chambers all along the temple, each five cubits high and attached to the temple with beams of cedar. 11 Then the word of the LORD came to Solomon, saying: 12 “As for this temple you are building, if you walk in My statutes, carry out My ordinances, and keep all My commandments by walking in them, I will fulfill through you the promise I made to your father David. 13 And I will dwell among the Israelites and will not abandon My people Israel." 14 So Solomon built the temple and finished it. 15 He lined the interior walls with cedar paneling from the floor of the temple to the ceiling, and he covered the floor with cypress boards. 16 He partitioned off the twenty cubits at the rear of the temple with cedar boards from floor to ceiling to form within the temple an inner sanctuary, the Most Holy Place. 17 And the main hall in front of this room was forty cubits long. 18 The cedar paneling inside the temple was carved with gourds and open flowers. Everything was cedar; not a stone could be seen. 19 Solomon also prepared the inner sanctuary within the temple to set the ark of the covenant of the LORD there. 20 The inner sanctuary was twenty cubits long, twenty cubits wide, and twenty cubits high. He overlaid the inside with pure gold, and he also overlaid the altar of cedar. 21 So Solomon overlaid the inside of the temple with pure gold, and he extended gold chains across the front of the inner sanctuary, which was overlaid with gold. 22 So he overlaid with gold the whole interior of the temple, until everything was completely finished. He also overlaid with gold the entire altar that belonged to the inner sanctuary. 23 In the inner sanctuary he made two cherubim, each ten cubits high, out of olive wood. 24 One wing of the first cherub was five cubits long, and the other wing was five cubits long as well. So the full wingspan was ten cubits. 25 The second cherub also measured ten cubits; both cherubim had the same size and shape, 26 and the height of each cherub was ten cubits. 27 And he placed the cherubim inside the innermost room of the temple. Since their wings were spread out, the wing of the first cherub touched one wall, while the wing of the second cherub touched the other wall, and in the middle of the room their wingtips touched. 28 He also overlaid the cherubim with gold. 29 Then he carved the walls all around the temple, in both the inner and outer sanctuaries, with carved engravings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers. 30 And he overlaid the temple floor with gold in both the inner and outer sanctuaries. 31 For the entrance to the inner sanctuary, Solomon constructed doors of olive wood with five-sided doorposts. 32 The double doors were made of olive wood, and he carved into them cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers and overlaid the cherubim and palm trees with hammered gold. 33 In the same way he made four-sided doorposts of olive wood for the sanctuary entrance. 34 The two doors were made of cypress wood, and each had two folding panels. 35 He carved into them cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers; and he overlaid them with gold, hammered evenly over the carvings. 36 Solomon built the inner courtyard with three rows of dressed stone and one row of trimmed cedar beams. 37 The foundation of the house of the LORD was laid in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign, in the month of Ziv. 38 In his eleventh year and eighth month, the month of Bul, the temple was finished in every detail and according to every specification. So he built the temple in seven years.
Study Notes — 1 Kings 6
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Kings 6
- Themes from 1 Kings 6
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Kings 6
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The construction of the Temple began in the fourth year of King Solomon's reign and took seven years to complete. The Temple was built using the finest materials, including cedar wood, gold, and precious stones. The chapter describes the design of the Temple, including the porch, the nave, and the inner sanctuary. The furnishings and decorations of the Temple are also described, including the altar, the table of showbread, and the lampstands. The chapter highlights the skill and craftsmanship of the workers who built the Temple, as well as the attention to detail and the commitment to excellence that characterized the project.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Kings, which describes the reign of King Solomon and the division of the kingdom. The chapter is also part of the broader biblical narrative, which describes God's relationship with His people and His plan of redemption. The construction of the Temple is a significant event in this narrative, as it symbolizes God's presence and glory among His people.
Heart Application
The chapter emphasizes the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God. It also highlights the need to seek God's guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded to strive for excellence in our own lives and to seek God's presence and glory in all that we do.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter describes the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem during the reign of King Solomon. The Temple was a place of worship and sacrifice, and its construction was a significant event in the history of the Israelites. The chapter highlights the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God, as well as the need to seek His guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life. (1 Kings 6:1-13)
Voices from the Church
“The Temple was a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people, and it foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Temple and the embodiment of God's presence and glory.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The construction of the Temple was a significant event in the history of the Israelites, as it symbolized God's covenant with His people and His commitment to their well-being.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Temple Construction (1 Kings 6:1-4) — The chapter begins by describing the start of the Temple construction project, including the materials used and the design of the Temple.
- The Design and Furnishings of the Temple (1 Kings 6:5-10) — The chapter provides detailed descriptions of the Temple's design and furnishings, including the altar, the table of showbread, and the lampstands.
- The Construction of the Temple (1 Kings 6:11-14) — The chapter highlights the construction of the Temple, including the use of fine materials and the attention to detail.
- The Completion of the Temple (1 Kings 6:15-22) — The chapter concludes by describing the completion of the Temple, including the furnishings and decorations.
- The Significance of the Temple (1 Kings 6:23-38) — The chapter emphasizes the significance of the Temple as a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people.
Core Doctrines
- The Doctrine of God's Presence
- The chapter highlights the importance of God's presence and glory among His people, as symbolized by the Temple.
- The Doctrine of Worship
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of worship and sacrifice in the life of the Israelites, as well as the need for excellence and quality in our worship and service to God.
- The Doctrine of Redemption
- The chapter foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Temple and the embodiment of God's presence and glory.
- The Doctrine of Covenant
- The chapter emphasizes God's covenant with His people and His commitment to their well-being, as symbolized by the Temple.
Lessons from 1 Kings 6
- The Importance of Excellence in Worship — The chapter emphasizes the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God, and reminds us to strive for excellence in all that we do.
- The Role of God in Our Lives — The chapter highlights the role of God in the construction of the Temple, and reminds us to seek His guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life.
- The Significance of the Temple in the Biblical Narrative — The chapter emphasizes the significance of the Temple as a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people, and reminds us of the importance of worship and sacrifice in our lives.
- The Foreshadowing of Jesus Christ — The chapter foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Temple and the embodiment of God's presence and glory.
- The Importance of Attention to Detail — The chapter emphasizes the importance of attention to detail and commitment to excellence in our work and service to God, and reminds us to strive for excellence in all that we do.
Themes from 1 Kings 6
- The Presence of God — The chapter highlights the importance of God's presence and glory among His people, as symbolized by the Temple.
- Worship and Sacrifice — The chapter emphasizes the importance of worship and sacrifice in the life of the Israelites, as well as the need for excellence and quality in our worship and service to God.
- Redemption and Covenant — The chapter foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Temple and the embodiment of God's presence and glory, and emphasizes God's covenant with His people and His commitment to their well-being.
- Excellence and Quality — The chapter emphasizes the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God, and reminds us to strive for excellence in all that we do.
- Guidance and Wisdom — The chapter highlights the role of God in the construction of the Temple, and reminds us to seek His guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the significance of the Temple in the biblical narrative, and how does it relate to God's presence and glory among His people?
- How does the chapter emphasize the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God?
- What role does God play in the construction of the Temple, and how does this relate to His guidance and wisdom in our lives?
- How does the chapter foreshadow the coming of Jesus Christ, and what implications does this have for our understanding of God's plan of redemption?
- What lessons can we learn from the attention to detail and commitment to excellence in the construction of the Temple, and how can we apply these lessons in our own lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Temple Construction (1 Kings 6:1-4)
| 6:1 | The chapter begins by describing the start of the Temple construction project, including the materials used and the design of the Temple. |
| 6:2 | The Temple was built using the finest materials, including cedar wood, gold, and precious stones. |
2. The Design and Furnishings of the Temple (1 Kings 6:5-10)
| 6:5 | The chapter provides detailed descriptions of the Temple's design and furnishings, including the altar, the table of showbread, and the lampstands. |
| 6:6 | The Temple was designed to be a place of worship and sacrifice, and its furnishings and decorations reflected this purpose. |
3. The Construction of the Temple (1 Kings 6:11-14)
| 6:11 | The chapter highlights the construction of the Temple, including the use of fine materials and the attention to detail. |
| 6:12 | The Temple was built according to the plans and specifications that God had given to King Solomon. |
4. The Completion of the Temple (1 Kings 6:15-22)
| 6:15 | The chapter concludes by describing the completion of the Temple, including the furnishings and decorations. |
| 6:16 | The Temple was completed in seven years, and it was dedicated to the worship and service of God. |
5. The Significance of the Temple (1 Kings 6:23-38)
| 6:23 | The chapter emphasizes the significance of the Temple as a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people. |
| 6:24 | The Temple was a place of worship and sacrifice, and its furnishings and decorations reflected this purpose. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Temple in the biblical narrative?
The Temple is a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people, and it foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Temple and the embodiment of God's presence and glory. (1 Kings 6:1-13)
How does the chapter emphasize the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God?
The chapter highlights the use of fine materials and the attention to detail in the construction of the Temple, and reminds us to strive for excellence in all that we do. (1 Kings 6:5-10)
What role does God play in the construction of the Temple?
God plays a significant role in the construction of the Temple, guiding and directing King Solomon and the workers who built it. (1 Kings 6:11-14)
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Kings 6:1 → 2 Chronicles 3:1 | The construction of the Temple is also described in 2 Chronicles 3:1, which provides additional details about the project. |
| 2 | 1 Kings 6:5 → Exodus 25:10 | The design and furnishings of the Temple are similar to those of the Tabernacle, which is described in Exodus 25:10. |
| 3 | 1 Kings 6:11 → Psalm 84:1 | The Temple is a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people, as expressed in Psalm 84:1. |
| 4 | 1 Kings 6:13 → John 1:1 | The Temple foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Temple and the embodiment of God's presence and glory. |
| 5 | 1 Kings 6:15 → Hebrews 9:11 | The Temple is a type of the heavenly Temple that Jesus Christ has inaugurated through His death and resurrection. |
| 6 | 1 Kings 6:16 → Revelation 21:22 | The Temple is a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people, and it foreshadows the coming of the New Jerusalem, which is described in Revelation 21:22. |
| 7 | 1 Kings 6:20 → Ezekiel 40:1 | The Temple is a type of the heavenly Temple that is described in Ezekiel 40:1. |
| 8 | 1 Kings 6:23 → Matthew 27:51 | The Temple is a symbol of God's presence and glory among His people, and it foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Temple and the embodiment of God's presence and glory. |
Sermons on 1 Kings 6
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Have You Ever Felt That God Is Doing Nothing in Your Life? by Carter Conlon | Carter Conlon addresses the feeling of spiritual stagnation, emphasizing that even when it seems God is silent, He is actively working within us. He draws from Isaiah 30, highlight |
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(1 Kings) the Wisdom of Solomon by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of organization and order in the Bible. He uses the example of God organizing the Israelites in the book of Numbers to emphasiz |
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Dwelling in Ceiled Houses by David Dalton | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for individuals and the church as a whole to prioritize glorifying God rather than themselves. He highlights the importance of allo |
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Progress of Redemption #03 by David Shirley | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Solomon in the book of 1 Kings. He highlights how Solomon's disobedience to God's commands led to the decline and division of t |
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Spiritual House: The Building of the House by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the significance of his cry, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" The preacher explains that Jesus |
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The Building of the Temple Part 2 by Chuck Smith | In 'The Building of the Temple Part 2', Chuck Smith elaborates on the construction of Solomon's temple, emphasizing its grandeur and the meticulous craftsmanship involved. He highl |
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Crystal Clear Stones for God Alone by Sandeep Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the future of believers as the bride of Christ, highlighting the need for unity and crystal clear purity to reflect the glory of God. It delves into the indi |
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Built Together in Christ's Body by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of building fellowship and unity in the body of Christ, drawing parallels to the construction of Solomon's temple where stones were shaped in |
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The Ark by D.L. Moody | D.L. Moody's sermon 'The Ark' draws parallels between Noah's Ark and the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing their symbolic representation of Christ's humanity and atoning work. He hi |
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How to Reach Your Goals by Charles Stanley | Charles Stanley emphasizes the importance of cooperation, consistency, clear focus, courage, and dependence on God when setting and achieving goals. He highlights the need to coope |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Kings 6
The construction of the Temple is a significant event in the history of the Israelites, as it symbolizes God's presence and glory among His people. The chapter highlights the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God, as well as the need to seek His guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life. The Temple is a type of the heavenly Temple that Jesus Christ has inaugurated through His death and resurrection, and it foreshadows the coming of the New Jerusalem. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded to strive for excellence in all that we do, and to seek God's presence and glory in all aspects of life. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Use of Fine Materials
The chapter highlights the use of fine materials, such as gold and cedar wood, in the construction of the Temple. This emphasizes the importance of excellence and quality in our worship and service to God.
The Attention to Detail
The chapter provides detailed descriptions of the Temple's design and furnishings, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail and commitment to excellence in our work and service to God.
The Role of God in the Construction
The chapter highlights the role of God in the construction of the Temple, emphasizing the importance of seeking His guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life.