1 Kings 7:48 - Meaning and Application

Here is, first, the making of the gold work for the temple. It seems this was done last, because with it the work of God’s house was completed. Everything inside was gold and newly made, except for the ark with its mercy seat and cherubim. The old items were either melted down or set aside: the golden altar, the table, the lampstand, and all their parts.

The altar of incense was still one, because Christ and his intercession are one. But Solomon made ten gold tables (2 Chronicles 4:8). Here, however, only the one table is mentioned on which the showbread lay (1 Kings 7:48). We may think that this table was larger than the others, and that the rest stood beside it like side tables. He also made ten gold lampstands (1 Kings 7:49), showing the much greater supply of spiritual food and heavenly light that the gospel gives us compared with what the law of Moses could provide.

Even the door hinges were made of gold (1 Kings 7:50), so that everything would be equally fine and would show Solomon’s generosity. Some think God’s temple was made this splendid to keep the people from idol worship, since no idol temple was so rich and beautiful. But the outcome showed how little that plan helped.

Second, the dedicated gifts were brought in, the things David had set apart to honor God (1 Kings 7:51). What was not used in building the temple or furnishing it was stored in the treasury for repairs, unexpected needs, and the steady cost of temple service. What parents have dedicated to God, their children should never take back or use for themselves. Instead, they should gladly devote what was meant for worship and charity, so that, along with their property, they may receive God’s blessing.