The temple I am going to build will be great, because our God is greater than all other gods. But who is able to build a temple for him, since the heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain him? Who then am I to build a temple for him, except as a place to burn sacrifices before him?
2 Chronicles 2:5-6 NIV
These are the words of Solomon as he prepared to build a temple for God—a temple that would dwarf all other temples. Because the God of Israel was greater than any other so-called god, his temple must also be greater. And, as you read the description of the temple he built, it was indeed impressive. The physical structure was small by today’s standards, but the artistry and wealth that went into it are beyond our ability to reproduce today.
Yet Solomon realized that this temple, no matter how grand, would be unable to contain God. Not even the creation itself is big enough to contain God. This temple, rather than being a home for God, would only be a place to offer sacrifices and meet with God in worship.
But Solomon asks an interesting question. Who is able to build a temple for God? While it is beyond our human ability to construct a suitable temple where God can dwell, there is one who can and is building that temple.
In Ephesians 2:19-22, Paul describes believers as God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. That we are joined together and rising to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in 2 Corinthians 6:16, Paul tells us that we are the temple of the loving God.
The temple that Solomon built was glorious. But it pales in comparison to the temple that Jesus is building. Solomon’s temple was made of stone, wood, and gold. But Jesus’ temple is a living organism, composed of those who have given themselves to the lordship of Jesus. And while Solomon’s temple could not contain God, Jesus’ temple is becoming a dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.
