1 Kings 6

In 1 Kings 6, we can see a vividly detailed architectural splendour in Solomon's masterful execution and the sacred intent behind this dwelling place for the Lord. The temple's main structure measured 60 cubits long, 20 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high (approximately 90 by 30 by 45 feet), with a portico extending 20 cubits wide and projecting 10 cubits forward. Narrow clerestory windows allowed light while maintaining sanctity. Surrounding the walls were three levels of side rooms (5, 6, and 7 cubits wide, respectively), supported by offset ledges to avoid penetrating the sacred walls. Stones were pre-cut at the quarry, ensuring no hammer, chisel, or iron tool echoed on-site, preserving the holiness of the space. Cedar beams roofed the structure, and the side rooms were cedar-attached. Solomon's work exemplifies extraordinary skill, wisdom, and resourcefulness, even more so qualities he sought from God earlier (1 Kings 3) transforming raw materials into a breathtaking edifice of purpose, fit for the Lord's glory. Yet, amid this splendour, verses 11-13 deliver a pivotal divine interruption "The word of the Lord came to Solomon: 'As for this temple you are building, if you follow my decrees and keep my commands and obey my laws, I will fulfill through you the promise I gave to David your father. And I will live among the Israelites and will not abandon my people Israel.'"

Oh wow Child of God, this shifts focus from bricks and gold to obedience, God's Decrees, His commands and covenant fidelity. Gods word to Solomon, emphasizing that the temple’s physical splendour is secondary to obedience and faithfulness. God warns that if Solomon and Israel fail to follow His commands, He will abandon the temple, leaving it desolate, regardless of its beauty. God’s presence is not confined to a building but is contingent on the people’s relationship with Him. For the temple's magnificence, while awe inspiring, is conditional. Disobedience and lack of his presence in them risks divine abandonment, rendering the structure a hollow shell. You see child of God, the bible says in the book of Acts 7:48 “The Most High does not live in houses made by human hands,” and in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, which describes believers’ bodies as ‘temples of the Holy Spirit’. You see brothers and sisters, as Stephen declares in his defence before the Sanhedrin, "However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands." Echoing Isaiah, he reminds us that heaven is God's throne and earth His footstool, what house could contain Him? Similarly, Paul urges believers in the verse above saying "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour God with your bodies.”

The true temple is the people of God, indwelt by His Spirit, not inert stone or cedar. Child of God, it's ultimately about heart level devotion, a relationship with God and his people, not architectural feats. Why pour resources into physical edifices when the real "building" is people? A stunning sanctuary with flawless lighting and aesthetics means little without nurturing souls as living temples. Brothers and sisters, without revelation or God's presence, it's just a gathering in emptiness. Like Solomon, who armed himself with divine wisdom before this venture, we too must equip ourselves with Scripture and the Spirit to truly edify others, because we the people are the temple. Build the people! Yes, build people, hallelujah, build people, Amen! Lest we erect beautiful voids where God longs to dwell.

As we can see, while Solomon’s temple was a masterpiece, its true value lay in fostering devotion to God. Today, the emphasis on elaborate church buildings, lighting, and aesthetics can overshadow the need to “build” people through God’s Word and Spirit, which is what we see happening. Child of God, let us be that change we want to see, remember what the bible says in the book of Revelation 3- well whoever has ears let them hear what the spirit says to the churches…

questions

Child of God, in what ways might our modern "temples"- churches, programs, or personal ambitions mirror Solomon's project? Impressive on the outside but vulnerable to divine withdrawal without obedience on the inside?

Tell me child of God, how can we shift focus from physical structures to "building people," and what practical steps might that look like in our community or life? If our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, what "interior decorations" (habits, choices) are we carving today to honour God's indwelling presence?

Brothers and sisters, Solomon prepared with wisdom and resources, and similarly, we believers must equip ourselves with scripture and the Holy Spirit to edify others. Without this focus, a beautiful building may host gatherings devoid of God’s presence or revelation.