2 Chronicles 7:3

When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down and the glory of the LORD above the temple, they bowed down on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave thanks to the LORD: "For He is good; His loving devotion endures forever."

Study Bible

When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down
The fire coming down from heaven signifies God's acceptance of Solomon's temple and the sacrifices offered there. This event parallels the fire that consumed the sacrifices on the altar during the dedication of the tabernacle in Leviticus 9:24. It demonstrates God's presence and approval, a powerful sign to the Israelites that their worship was accepted. The fire from heaven is a recurring biblical motif, symbolizing divine presence and approval, as seen in Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal in 1 Kings 18:38.

and the glory of the LORD above the temple
The glory of the LORD, often referred to as the Shekinah glory, represents God's manifest presence. This glory filled the temple, indicating that God had taken residence among His people. The concept of God's glory is central to the Old Testament, appearing in the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-35) and later in the temple. It foreshadows the New Testament revelation of God's glory in Jesus Christ, as seen in John 1:14, where the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory.

they bowed down on the pavement with their faces to the ground
This act of bowing down is a physical expression of worship, reverence, and submission to God. It reflects the cultural practice of showing deep respect and humility before a sovereign. The pavement, likely made of costly stones, signifies the sacred space of the temple courtyard. Bowing with faces to the ground is a common biblical posture of worship, seen in other instances such as in Genesis 17:3 when Abram fell on his face before God.

and they worshiped and gave thanks to the LORD
Worship and thanksgiving are central themes in the relationship between God and His people. The Israelites' response to God's presence is one of adoration and gratitude, acknowledging His sovereignty and goodness. This act of worship is not just ritualistic but a heartfelt response to God's faithfulness and mercy. The Psalms frequently emphasize worship and thanksgiving, as seen in Psalm 100:4, which calls believers to enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.

“For He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.”
This declaration is a recurring refrain in the Psalms, notably in Psalm 136, which emphasizes God's enduring mercy and steadfast love. The phrase underscores the character of God as inherently good and faithful. His loving devotion, or hesed in Hebrew, is a covenantal love that remains constant despite human unfaithfulness. This statement of God's goodness and enduring love is a foundational truth for the Israelites and is echoed throughout Scripture, affirming God's unchanging nature and His eternal commitment to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who witnessed the divine manifestation.

2. Fire from Heaven
A miraculous sign of God's presence and approval, symbolizing His holiness and power.

3. Glory of the LORD
The visible manifestation of God's presence, often associated with His majesty and holiness.

4. Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem built by Solomon as a dwelling place for God's name and a center for worship.

5. Pavement
The ground area where the Israelites prostrated themselves in worship, signifying humility and reverence.

Teaching Points

God's Manifest Presence
Recognize that God's presence is both awe-inspiring and comforting. His glory demands reverence and worship.

Response to God's Goodness
Like the Israelites, our response to God's goodness should be worship and thanksgiving. Acknowledge His enduring love in our daily lives.

Humility in Worship
The Israelites' posture of bowing with faces to the ground teaches us the importance of humility and reverence in worship.

Enduring Loving Devotion
God's loving devotion (Hebrew: "chesed") is a central theme throughout Scripture. Trust in His unchanging love and faithfulness.

Community Worship
The collective worship of the Israelites highlights the importance of gathering together as a community to honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the manifestation of God's glory in 2 Chronicles 7:3 compare to other instances of God's presence in the Bible?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the Israelites' response of worship and thanksgiving into our personal and communal worship today?

3. What does the concept of God's "loving devotion" mean to you, and how can it impact your relationship with Him?

4. How can we cultivate a posture of humility and reverence in our daily lives, both in worship and in our interactions with others?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's presence in a powerful way. How did it affect your faith and actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40:34-35
The glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle, similar to how it filled Solomon's temple, indicating God's presence among His people.

Leviticus 9:24
Fire from the LORD consumed the burnt offering, showing divine acceptance, paralleling the fire in 2 Chronicles 7:3.

Psalm 136
Repeatedly emphasizes God's goodness and enduring loving devotion, echoing the Israelites' declaration in 2 Chronicles 7:3.

1 Kings 8:10-11
The glory of the LORD filled the temple during its dedication, similar to the event in 2 Chronicles 7.

Revelation 21:22-23
Describes the New Jerusalem where God's glory illuminates the city, reflecting the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with His people.