Topical Bible: Temple: Solomon's: David Undertakes the Building of

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The construction of Solomon's Temple, also known as the First Temple, is a significant event in biblical history, marking a pivotal moment in the religious life of Israel. The groundwork for this monumental project was laid by King David, who, although not permitted by God to build the temple himself, played a crucial role in its preparation.

Divine Prohibition and Promise

David's desire to build a house for the Lord is first expressed in 2 Samuel 7. After establishing his kingdom and finding rest from his enemies, David reflects on the disparity between his own palace and the tent that housed the Ark of the Covenant. He expresses his intention to build a temple to Nathan the prophet. However, God communicates through Nathan that David is not to build the temple. Instead, God promises David that his son will build the house for His name. The Lord declares, "Your house and kingdom will endure forever before Me, and your throne will be established forever" (2 Samuel 7:16).

David's Preparations

Despite the divine prohibition, David undertakes extensive preparations for the temple's construction. Understanding the significance of the temple as a dwelling place for the Lord among His people, David dedicates himself to gathering materials and resources. In 1 Chronicles 22, David commands the leaders of Israel to assist Solomon, his son, in the task. He amasses large quantities of stone, iron, bronze, and cedar logs, stating, "My son Solomon is young and inexperienced, and the house to be built for the LORD must be exceedingly magnificent, famous and glorious throughout all lands" (1 Chronicles 22:5).

David also organizes the Levites and priests, assigning them specific roles and duties for the future temple service. He provides Solomon with detailed plans for the temple's structure, which he received by the Spirit, ensuring that every aspect of the temple's design aligns with divine specifications (1 Chronicles 28:11-19).

David's Charge to Solomon

Before his death, David charges Solomon with the task of building the temple. In 1 Chronicles 28, David assembles all the leaders of Israel and publicly commissions Solomon, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commandments. He encourages Solomon, saying, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you" (1 Chronicles 28:20).

David's charge to Solomon underscores the spiritual significance of the temple as a place where God's presence would dwell among His people. He reminds Solomon of the covenantal promises and the necessity of faithfulness to God's law.

Financial and Material Contributions

David's commitment to the temple project is further demonstrated by his personal financial contributions. In 1 Chronicles 29, David donates from his own wealth, giving gold, silver, and other precious materials for the temple's construction. His generosity inspires the leaders and people of Israel to contribute willingly, resulting in an abundance of resources for the temple.

David's actions reflect his deep devotion to God and his understanding of the temple's role in Israel's worship and identity. His preparations set the stage for Solomon to fulfill the divine mandate, ensuring that the temple would be a place of worship, sacrifice, and communion with God for generations to come.

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2 Samuel 7:2,3
That the king said to Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells within curtains.
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1 Chronicles 22:7
And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house to the name of the LORD my God:
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1 Chronicles 28:2
Then David the king stood up on his feet, and said, Hear me, my brothers, and my people: As for me, I had in my heart to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building:
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Psalm 132:2-5
How he swore to the LORD, and vowed to the mighty God of Jacob;
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Acts 7:46
Who found favor before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.
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Library

The Founder and Finisher of the Temple
... house that might represent the vanished glories of Solomon's Temple. ... a bearing upon
the greater Son of David who was ... be perfectly sure that the Temple which He ...
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A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus ...
... Smith, at the Elephant and Castle, without Temple Bar, 1672 ... The Babel building of
the learned clergyman could not ... the spirit of a man; which Solomon calls, 'the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a defence of the doctrine.htm