avid's preparations for the temple. (1-5) David's
instructions to Solomon. (6-16) The prices commanded to assist.
(17-19)
Verses 1-5: On occasion of the terrible judgment inflicted on Israel
for the sin of David, God pointed out the place where he would
have the temple built; upon which, David was excited to make
preparations for the great work. David must not build, but he
would do all he could; he prepared abundantly before his death.
What our hands find to do for God, and our souls, and those
round us, let us do it with all our might, before our death; for
after death there is no device nor working. And when the Lord
refuses to employ us in those services which we desired, we must
not be discouraged or idle, but do what we can, though in a
humbler sphere.
Verses 6-16: David gives Solomon the reason why he should build the
temple. Because God named him. Nothing is more powerful to
engage us in any service for God, than to know that we are
appointed thereto. Because he would have leisure and opportunity
to do it. He should have peace and quietness. Where God gives
rest, he expects work. Because God had promised to establish his
kingdom. God's gracious promises should quicken and strengthen
our religious service. David delivered to Solomon an account of
the vast preparations he had made for this building; not from
pride and vain-glory, but to encourage Solomon to engage
cheerfully in the great work. He must not think, by building the
temple, to purchase a dispensation to sin; on the contrary, his
doing that would not be accepted, if he did not take heed to
fulfil the statutes of the Lord. In our spiritual work, as well
as in our spiritual warfare, we have need of courage and
resolution.
Verses 17-19: Whatever is done towards rendering the word of God
generally known and attended to, is like bringing a stone, or an
ingot of gold, towards erecting the temple. This should
encourage us when we grieve that we do not see more fruit of our
labours; much good may appear after our death, which we never
thought of. Let us not then be weary of well doing. The work is
in the hands of the Prince of peace. As he, the Author and
Finisher of the work, is pleased to employ us as his
instruments, let us arise and be doing, encouraging and helping
one another; working by his rule, after his example, in
dependence on his grace, assured that he will be with us, and
that our labour shall not be in vain in the Lord.
avid's preparations for the temple. (1-5) David's
instructions to Solomon. (6-16) The prices commanded to assist.
(17-19)