The house that I am to build will be great, for our God is greater than all gods. But who is able to build him a house, since heaven, even the highest heaven, cannot contain him? Who am I to build a house for him, except as a place to make offerings before him? (2 Chronicles 2:5-6)
Solomon asked God for wisdom and knowledge. God gave Solomon wisdom, knowledge, and a lot more than that. It would, however, be that wisdom and knowledge that would enable Solomon to conduct some significant exploits, none more important or impressive than fulfilling the desire of his father and building a temple for God.
One fascinating element of building the temple was Solomon reaching out to a friend of his father. Recognising the need for specialists, Solomon noted that specific resources and specialists would need to be outsourced. His request to King Hiram had to be delivered just right. This letter did a brilliant job in continuing the good relations that had been established previously. That would not always last, but it’s worth noting that Solomon does well in relating properly to Hiram in this aspect.
In the request, Solomon expresses something important to realise about the building project. He is building a home for God, who cannot be contained. In this expression, Solomon is aware and humble about the task at hand. Whatever he’s putting together is for a being who created all things. The praise and acknowledgement of God’s greatness in the previous statement ensure that the task is not undertaken as if it can measure up to God. It’s being done in honour and tribute to Him, as well as being in line with the understanding that this is in line with what it means for God to be with His people.
What would it mean for us to operate in the light of recognising the greatness of the God we’re serving? How would that affect how we relate to others? How would that shape what we do? What does it mean for us to recognise that the greatest God, incomparable in nature, chooses to live among us, live in us, in order to live through us for the benefit of those around us? What would that mean for how we view His idea of His temple today, made of living stones?
The desire to put something on display to the glory of God is not about physical monuments made with materials of the earth. His Son is putting together the building project that God has in mind. This project aims to display for the heavenly realm the glorious eternal purposes of God. The wisdom and knowledge of Solomon are exceeded by the source of all wisdom, which is capable of working through people and relationships to show His splendour.
It is for us to submit to the plan that the Father is developing through His Son. It is for us to see how He chooses to arrange us in His wisdom so that the place He chooses to live will reflect Him in all His glory and wonder.
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
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