2 Chronicles 4:19

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

Study Bible

Solomon also made all the furnishings for the house of God:
This phrase highlights Solomon's role in completing the construction and furnishing of the temple, a task initially commissioned by his father, David. The temple was central to Israelite worship and symbolized God's presence among His people. Solomon's involvement underscores his wisdom and dedication to fulfilling God's commands. The temple's furnishings were crafted with precision and care, reflecting the importance of worship and the sacredness of the space.

the golden altar:
The golden altar, also known as the altar of incense, was placed in the Holy Place before the veil that separated it from the Holy of Holies. It was used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 8:3-4). The use of gold signifies purity and divinity, pointing to the holiness required in approaching God. This altar prefigures Christ, our intercessor, who mediates between God and humanity (Hebrews 7:25).

the tables on which was placed the Bread of the Presence:
These tables held the Bread of the Presence, also known as showbread, which consisted of twelve loaves representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Placed in the Holy Place, this bread was a continual offering before the Lord, signifying God's provision and covenant with His people (Leviticus 24:5-9). The bread is a type of Christ, the Bread of Life, who sustains and nourishes believers (John 6:35). The presence of these tables in the temple underscores the importance of fellowship and communion with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, he was responsible for constructing the First Temple in Jerusalem, which is the context of this verse.

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

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

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

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

Teaching Points

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

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

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

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

Bible Study Questions

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

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

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

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

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

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

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

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