2 Chronicles 3
BSB1 Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to his father David. This was the place that David had prepared on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. 2 Solomon began construction on the second day of the second month in the fourth year of his reign. 3 The foundation that Solomon laid for the house of God was sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide, according to the old standard. 4 The portico at the front, extending across the width of the temple, was twenty cubits long and twenty cubits high. He overlaid the inside with pure gold. 5 He paneled the main room with cypress, which he overlaid with fine gold and decorated with palm trees and chains. 6 He adorned the temple with precious stones for beauty, and its gold was from Parvaim. 7 He overlaid its beams, thresholds, walls, and doors with gold, and he carved cherubim on the walls. 8 Then he made the Most Holy Place; its length corresponded to the width of the temple—twenty cubits long and twenty cubits wide. And he overlaid the inside with six hundred talents of fine gold. 9 The weight of the nails was fifty shekels of gold. He also overlaid the upper area with gold. 10 In the Most Holy Place he made two cherubim of sculptured work, and he overlaid them with gold. 11 The total wingspan of the cherubim was twenty cubits. One wing of the first cherub was five cubits long and touched the wall of the temple, and its other wing was five cubits long and touched the wing of the other cherub. 12 The wing of the second cherub also measured five cubits and touched the wall of the temple, while its other wing measured five cubits and touched the wing of the first cherub. 13 So the total wingspan of these cherubim was twenty cubits. They stood on their feet, facing the main room. 14 He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn and fine linen, with cherubim woven into it. 15 In front of the temple he made two pillars, which together were thirty-five cubits high, each with a capital on top measuring five cubits. 16 He made interwoven chains and put them on top of the pillars. He made a hundred pomegranates and fastened them into the chainwork. 17 Then he set up the pillars in front of the temple, one on the south and one on the north. The pillar on the south he named Jachin, and the pillar on the north he named Boaz.
Study Notes — 2 Chronicles 3
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 2 Chronicles 3
- Themes from 2 Chronicles 3
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 2 Chronicles 3
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with Solomon's decision to build the Temple on Mount Moriah, the site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice (2 Chronicles 3:1). The construction of the Temple is described in detail, including the preparation of the site, the laying of the foundation, and the construction of the walls and roof (2 Chronicles 3:2-7). The chapter also describes the interior of the Temple, including the Most Holy Place, the altar, and the furnishings (2 Chronicles 3:8-14). The construction of the Temple took seven years to complete, and it was a grand and beautiful structure that surpassed all expectations (2 Chronicles 3:15-17).
Context for the Chapter
2 Chronicles 3 is part of the larger narrative of the book of 2 Chronicles, which describes the history of the kingdom of Judah from the reign of Solomon to the Babylonian exile. The chapter is situated within the section that describes the reign of Solomon, which is characterized by wisdom, prosperity, and the construction of the Temple. The construction of the Temple was a pivotal event in the history of Israel, and it marked the beginning of a new era in the relationship between God and His people.
Heart Application
The construction of the Temple, as described in 2 Chronicles 3, is a reminder of the importance of worship and the presence of God in our lives. Just as the Temple was a symbol of God's presence among His people, our hearts are the temples of the Holy Spirit, and we must strive to keep them pure and holy. We must also recognize the value and beauty of the spiritual Temple that Christ is building, and we must be diligent in our efforts to contribute to its construction.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
The chapter describes the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem during the reign of King Solomon. The Temple was a grand and beautiful structure that symbolized the presence of God among His people. The construction of the Temple took seven years to complete, and it was a testament to Solomon's wisdom and devotion to God. The Temple was built on the site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice, and it was a place of great spiritual significance.
Voices from the Church
“The Temple was a magnificent structure, but it was nothing compared to the beauty and grandeur of the heavenly Temple, where Christ sits at the right hand of God.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The construction of the Temple was a testament to the wisdom and devotion of King Solomon, but it was also a reminder of the transience of human achievements and the superiority of the spiritual Temple that Christ is building.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Site of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:1-2) — The chapter begins with Solomon's decision to build the Temple on Mount Moriah, the site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice.
- The Construction of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:3-7) — The construction of the Temple is described in detail, including the preparation of the site, the laying of the foundation, and the construction of the walls and roof.
- The Interior of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:8-14) — The chapter describes the interior of the Temple, including the Most Holy Place, the altar, and the furnishings.
- The Completion of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:15-17) — The construction of the Temple took seven years to complete, and it was a grand and beautiful structure that surpassed all expectations.
- The Significance of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:1-17) — The chapter highlights the significance of the Temple as a symbol of God's presence among His people and as a place of worship and sacrifice.
Core Doctrines
- The Doctrine of the Temple
- The chapter teaches that the Temple was a symbol of God's presence among His people and a place of worship and sacrifice. The Temple was a shadow of the true Temple, which is the body of Christ.
- The Doctrine of Worship
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of worship and the presence of God in our lives. The Temple was a place of worship and sacrifice, and it was a reminder of the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God.
- The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit
- The chapter teaches that our hearts are the temples of the Holy Spirit, and we must strive to keep them pure and holy. The Holy Spirit dwells within us, and we must be diligent in our efforts to contribute to the construction of the spiritual Temple that Christ is building.
- The Doctrine of Christ's Reign
- The chapter highlights the connection between the Temple and the reign of Christ. The Temple was a symbol of God's presence among His people, and it foreshadowed the presence of Christ in the hearts of believers.
Lessons from 2 Chronicles 3
- The Importance of Worship — The chapter emphasizes the importance of worship and the presence of God in our lives. We must prioritize our relationship with God and strive to keep our hearts pure and holy.
- The Beauty and Grandeur of God's Creation — The description of the Temple's construction and furnishings in 2 Chronicles 3 highlights the beauty and grandeur of God's creation. We must recognize the value and beauty of the spiritual Temple that Christ is building.
- The Connection to the Patriarchs — The chapter highlights the connection between the Temple and the patriarchs of Israel, particularly Abraham and David. We must recognize the significance of this connection and the importance of honoring our spiritual heritage.
- The Significance of the Temple — The chapter teaches that the Temple was a symbol of God's presence among His people and a place of worship and sacrifice. We must recognize the significance of the Temple as a foreshadowing of the presence of Christ in the hearts of believers.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands. Solomon's decision to build the Temple was a response to God's command, and it was a testament to his devotion and obedience.
Themes from 2 Chronicles 3
- The Presence of God — The chapter highlights the presence of God among His people, as symbolized by the Temple. We must recognize the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God and striving to keep our hearts pure and holy.
- Worship and Sacrifice — The chapter emphasizes the importance of worship and sacrifice, as exemplified by the Temple. We must recognize the value and beauty of the spiritual Temple that Christ is building and strive to contribute to its construction.
- The Connection to the Patriarchs — The chapter highlights the connection between the Temple and the patriarchs of Israel, particularly Abraham and David. We must recognize the significance of this connection and the importance of honoring our spiritual heritage.
- The Beauty and Grandeur of God's Creation — The description of the Temple's construction and furnishings in 2 Chronicles 3 highlights the beauty and grandeur of God's creation. We must recognize the value and beauty of the spiritual Temple that Christ is building.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands. Solomon's decision to build the Temple was a response to God's command, and it was a testament to his devotion and obedience.
Questions for Meditation
- What was the significance of the site where the Temple was built, and how does it relate to the patriarchs of Israel?
- How does the description of the Temple's construction and furnishings in 2 Chronicles 3 emphasize the beauty and grandeur of the structure?
- What is the connection between the Temple and the body of Christ, and how does this relate to our understanding of worship and the presence of God?
- How does the chapter highlight the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God, and what are some practical ways that we can apply this to our lives?
- What is the significance of the Temple as a symbol of God's presence among His people, and how does this relate to the spiritual Temple that Christ is building?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Site of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:1-2)
| 3:1 | The chapter begins with Solomon's decision to build the Temple on Mount Moriah, the site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice. |
| 3:2 | The site was prepared, and the foundation of the Temple was laid. |
2. The Construction of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:3-7)
| 3:3 | The construction of the Temple began, and the walls and roof were built. |
| 3:4 | The entrance to the Temple was constructed, and the doors were made of olive wood. |
| 3:5 | The walls of the Temple were lined with gold, and the floors were made of pine. |
| 3:6 | The Temple was decorated with precious stones, and the walls were adorned with carvings. |
| 3:7 | The interior of the Temple was completed, and the Most Holy Place was prepared. |
3. The Interior of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:8-14)
| 3:8 | The Most Holy Place was constructed, and the Ark of the Covenant was placed inside. |
| 3:9 | The altar was built, and the furnishings of the Temple were made. |
| 3:10 | The cherubim were constructed, and they were placed in the Most Holy Place. |
| 3:11 | The wings of the cherubim were spread, and they covered the Ark of the Covenant. |
| 3:12 | The doors of the Temple were made, and they were adorned with carvings. |
| 3:13 | The doors were covered with gold, and they were decorated with precious stones. |
| 3:14 | The interior of the Temple was completed, and it was a grand and beautiful structure. |
4. The Completion of the Temple (2 Chronicles 3:15-17)
| 3:15 | The construction of the Temple took seven years to complete. |
| 3:16 | The Temple was a grand and beautiful structure, and it surpassed all expectations. |
| 3:17 | The Temple was dedicated to the Lord, and it was a place of worship and sacrifice. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of the site where the Temple was built?
The site where the Temple was built was the same site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice, and it was a place of great spiritual significance (2 Chronicles 3:1).
How long did the construction of the Temple take?
The construction of the Temple took seven years to complete (2 Chronicles 3:15).
What was the purpose of the Temple?
The Temple was a place of worship and sacrifice, and it was a symbol of God's presence among His people (2 Chronicles 3:1-17).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Chronicles 3:1 → Genesis 22:2 | The site where the Temple was built was the same site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice. |
| 2 | 2 Chronicles 3:3 → 1 Kings 5:1 | The construction of the Temple began during the reign of King Solomon. |
| 3 | 2 Chronicles 3:8 → Exodus 25:10 | The Most Holy Place was constructed according to the pattern given to Moses. |
| 4 | 2 Chronicles 3:10 → Psalm 80:1 | The cherubim were constructed to symbolize the presence of God among His people. |
| 5 | 2 Chronicles 3:12 → Ezekiel 41:23 | The doors of the Temple were made according to the pattern given to Ezekiel. |
| 6 | 2 Chronicles 3:14 → Hebrews 9:3 | The interior of the Temple was a symbol of the heavenly Temple, where Christ sits at the right hand of God. |
| 7 | 2 Chronicles 3:15 → John 2:20 | The construction of the Temple took seven years to complete, and it was a grand and beautiful structure. |
| 8 | 2 Chronicles 3:17 → Acts 7:47 | The Temple was dedicated to the Lord, and it was a place of worship and sacrifice. |
Sermons on 2 Chronicles 3
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Forever Dwelling in the Presence of God by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker expresses deep remorse and repentance for living a sinful lifestyle. They acknowledge the holiness and consuming fire of God, and the need to genuinely |
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Fire on the Altar by G.W. North | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of King Solomon and the dedication of the temple. He describes how the people witnessed the fire of God coming down and the glory |
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Preparing the Way for the New Covenant by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of offering our best to God, both in terms of our sacrifices and our devotion. It highlights the need to follow the New Testament model of chu |
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Spirit of Sacrifice by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen emphasizes the 'Spirit of Sacrifice' by drawing parallels between Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Moriah and the sacrificial love of Jesus on Calvary. |
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Some Principles of the House of God (2 Chronicles 3:1) by T. Austin-Sparks | T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the foundational principles of the house of God, highlighting the triumph of faith and obedience as exemplified by Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Is |
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The Principle of Sacrifice by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen preaches on the principle of sacrifice demonstrated by Abraham on Mount Moriah and Jesus on Calvary, emphasizing the need for believers to have the spirit and faith of A |
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When Is It a Sacrifice? by Theodore Epp | Theodore Epp emphasizes the significance of true sacrifice in his sermon 'When Is It a Sacrifice?' by examining David's decision to purchase the threshing floor of Ornan for an alt |
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He Set Up the Pillars Before the Temple, . . . by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of the pillars Jachin and Boaz, which symbolize God's establishment and strength in our lives. He explains that Jesus has established redempt |
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Ii Chronicles 22:1 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith explores the significance of the threshing floor of Ornan as a meeting place with God, emphasizing that God's temple can be found in simple, unadorned places rather tha |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Chronicles 3
The chapter describes the construction of the Temple, which was a grand and beautiful structure that symbolized the presence of God among His people. The site where the Temple was built was the same site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice, and it was a place of great spiritual significance. The construction of the Temple took seven years to complete, and it was a testament to Solomon's wisdom and devotion to God. The Temple was a shadow of the true Temple, which is the body of Christ, and it foreshadowed the presence of Christ in the hearts of believers. The chapter emphasizes the importance of worship and the presence of God in our lives, and it reminds us that our hearts are the temples of the Holy Spirit. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Significance of the Site
The fact that the Temple was built on the site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice and where God had appeared to David emphasizes the importance of this location and the connection to the patriarchs of Israel. This site was chosen by God Himself, and it was a place of great spiritual significance (2 Chronicles 3:1).
The Beauty and Grandeur of the Temple
The description of the Temple's construction and furnishings in 2 Chronicles 3 emphasizes the beauty and grandeur of the structure. The use of gold, cedar, and other precious materials highlights the value and importance of the Temple as a symbol of God's presence among His people (2 Chronicles 3:5-14).
The Connection to the Patriarchs
The chapter highlights the connection between the Temple and the patriarchs of Israel, particularly Abraham and David. The site where the Temple was built was the same site where Abraham had offered Isaac as a sacrifice, and it was the place where God had appeared to David (2 Chronicles 3:1).