Solomon’s temple was one of the great wonders of the ancient world. It was a massive architectural achievement. It impressed even the Queen of Sheba (2 Chronicles 9:3-6). It exceeded her expectations!
David played a huge role in the temple’s construction. Before Solomon’s ascent to the throne, David assembled the officials of Israel and encouraged them to take part in the work.
There were four reasons why the nation needed to help build the temple.
It was for God.
- The temple would be for the great God of Israel (1 Chronicles 29:1). David urged the nation to give generously for this work because it would glorify their Creator and Sustainer.
- Everything in the kingdom is for the same great God. Our worship, evangelistic work, prayers, service to one another, and daily lives should be dedicated to the glory of God (Romans 12:1). It should all demonstrate how much we love, respect, and appreciate our Father.
It required excellent effort.
- David set the right example by giving above and beyond for this project (1 Chronicles 29:2-3). He gave sacrificially to support this effort, and he had faith that God knew and loved him personally.
- Those who truly love God are compelled to offer Him excellent service (1 Thessalonians 4:1-10). They are compelled to provide him with excellent effort in worship, giving, and kingdom work.
- Our great God is worthy of nothing less than our best effort (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
It required a willing heart.
- Instead of heavily taxing the people, David left it up to them to decide if they wanted to participate in this work.
- Inspired by David’s example, the people gave willingly and generously (1 Chronicles 29:3-9).
- While God could force us to serve Him, He doesn’t! He wants us to choose to love and render service to Him (Joshua 24:15; John 3:16; 14:15; Psalm 110:2-4).
- True followers of God choose to love Him because He first chose to love them (1 John 4:19).
It required a sense of indebtedness.
- After the people determined to give generously to support the building of the temple, David said a prayer (1 Chronicles 29:10-14). This prayer acknowledged God as the Creator and source of their blessings. It also expressed thanksgiving and praised God for allowing them to have blessings to give back to Him.
- The Apostle Paul was also motivated by a great sense of indebtedness toward God (Romans 1:14-16). This mindset will help us avoid viewing any service God demands as a burden and chore. Instead, obeying God will be a privilege!
Conclusion:
Solomon’s temple foreshadowed the greater temple that Jesus would later build (1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Peter 2:5; Ephesians 2:21). Are you part of the Lord’s temple?