1Kings:8

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* Verse 1-11 - The bringing in the ark , is the end which must crown the work : this was done with great solemnity . The ark was fixed in the place appointed for its rest in the inner part of the house , whence they expected God to speak to them , even in the most holy place . The staves of the ark were drawn out , so as to direct the high priest to the mercy-seat over the ark , when he went in , once a year , to sprinkle the blood there ; so that they continued of use , though there was no longer occasion to carry it by them . The glory of God appearing in a cloud may signify , 1 . The darkness of that dispensation , in comparison with the light of the gospel , by which , with open face , we behold , as in a glass , the glory of the Lord . 2 . The darkness of our present state , in comparison with the sight of God , which will be the happiness of heaven , where the Divine glory is unveiled . * Verse 12-21 - Solomon encouraged the priests , who were much astonished at the dark cloud . The dark dispensations of Providence should quicken us in fleeing for refuge to the hope of the gospel . Nothing can more reconcile us to them , than to consider what God has said , and to compare his word and works together . Whatever good we do , we must look on it as the performance of God 's promise to us , not of our promises to him . * Verse 22-53 - In this excellent prayer , Solomon does as we should do in every prayer ; he gives glory to God . Fresh experiences of the truth of God 's promises call for larger praises . He sues for grace and favour from God . The experiences we have of God 's performing his promises , should encourage us to depend upon them , and to plead them with him ; and those who expect further mercies , must be thankful for former mercies . God 's promises must be the guide of our desires , and the ground of our hopes and expectations in prayer . The sacrifices , the incense , and the whole service of the temple , were all typical of the Redeemer 's offices , oblation , and intercession . The temple , therefore , was continually to be remembered . Under one word , "forgive ," Solomon expressed all that he could ask in behalf of his people . For , as all misery springs from sin , forgiveness of sin prepares the way for the removal of every evil , and the receiving of every good . Without it , no deliverance can prove a blessing . In addition to the teaching of the word of God , Solomon entreated the Lord himself to teach the people to profit by all , even by their chastisements . They shall know every man the plague of his own heart , what it is that pains him ; and shall spread their hands in prayer toward this house ; whether the trouble be of body or mind , they shall represent it before God . Inward burdens seem especially meant . Sin is the plague of our own hearts ; our in-dwelling corruptions are our spiritual diseases : every true Israelite endeavours to know these , that he may mortify them , and watch against the risings of them . These drive him to his knees ; lamenting these , he spreads forth his hands in prayer . After many particulars , Solomon concludes with the general request , that God would hearken to his praying people . No place , now , under the gospel , can add to the prayers made in or towards it . The substance is Christ ; whatever we ask in his name , it shall be given us . In this manner the Israel of God is established and sanctified , the backslider is recovered and healed . In this manner the stranger is brought nigh , the mourner is comforted , the name of God is glorified . Sin is the cause of all our troubles ; repentance and forgiveness lead to all human happiness . * Verse 54-61 - Never was a congregation dismissed with what was more likely to affect them , and to abide with them . What Solomon asks for in this prayer , is still granted in the intercession of Christ , of which his supplication was a type . We shall receive grace sufficient , suitable , and seasonable , in every time of need . No human heart is of itself willing to obey the gospel call to repentance , faith , and newness of life , walking in all the commandments of the Lord , yet Solomon exhorts the people to be perfect . This is the scriptural method , it is our duty to obey the command of the law and the call of the gospel , seeing we have broken the law . When our hearts are inclined thereto , feeling our sinfulness and weakness , we pray for Divine assistance ; thus are we made able to serve God through Jesus Christ . * Verse 62-66 - Solomon offered a great sacrifice . He kept the feast of tabernacles , as it seems , after the feast of dedication . Thus should we go home , rejoicing , from holy ordinances , thankful for God 's Goodness Henry ' _1__9 **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary **** _

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