The specifications regarding the building were often repeated. In all the work done, these specifications were to be followed with the utmost exactness. Believers and unbelievers were to learn of the importance of the work from the care shown in its performance.
(2BC 1030.1)
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The care shown in the building of the temple is a lesson to us regarding the care that we are to show in our character-building. No cheap material was to be used. No haphazard work was to be done in matching the different parts. Piece must fit piece perfectly. Just as God′s temple was, so must His church be. Into their character-building His people are to bring no worthless timbers, no careless, indifferent work....
(2BC 1030.2)
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In times of perplexity and distress, when a heavy strain is brought to bear, it will plainly be seen what kind of timbers have been used in the character-building (Manuscript 18, 1905).
(2BC 1030.3)
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12, 13. God Gives Skill, Understanding, Adaptability—[1 Kings 6:12, 13 quoted.] This word was sent to Solomon while he was engaged in the building of the temple. The Lord assured him that He was taking notice of his efforts and of the efforts of the others engaged on the building. God exercises the same watchcare over His work today. Those who labor with a sincere desire to fulfill the Word of the Lord, and to glorify His name, will gain increased knowledge; for the Lord will cooperate with them. He watches with approval those who keep His glory in view. He will give them skill and understanding and adaptability for their work. Each one who enters the service of God with a determination to do his best, will receive a valuable education, if he heeds the instruction given by the Lord, and does not follow his own wisdom and his own ideas. All are to be teachable, seeking the Lord with humility, and using for Him, with cheerfulness and gratitude, the knowledge gained (Manuscript 18, 1905).
(2BC 1030.4)
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23-28 (1 Kings 8:6, 7; 2 Chronicles 5:7, 8, 12-14). Two Additional Angels Placed by Ark—A most splendid sanctuary had been made, according to the pattern showed to Moses in the mount, and afterward presented by the Lord to David. In addition to the cherubim on the top of the ark, Solomon made two other angels of larger size, standing at each end of the ark, representing the heavenly angels guarding the law of God. It is impossible to describe the beauty and splendor of this sanctuary. Into this place the sacred ark was borne with solemn reverence by the priests, and set in its place beneath the wings of the two stately cherubim that stood upon the floor.
(2BC 1030.5)
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The sacred choir lifted their voices in praise to God, and the melody of their voices was accompanied by all kinds of musical instruments. And while the courts of the temple resounded with praise, the cloud of God′s glory took possession of the house, as it had formerly filled the wilderness tabernacle (The Review and Herald, November 9, 1905).
(2BC 1030.6)
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13, 14, 40 (1 Kings 5:3-18; 2:13, 14; 2 Chronicles 4:11). Solomon Should Have Used Available Talent—The first thing that Solomon should have thought of in connection with the building of the temple was how to obtain all the strength and ability possible from the people whom Christ had been training by the communications given through Moses for Israel (Manuscript 5, 1912).
(2BC 1030.7)
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18-27 (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Pity the Man Who Was Envied—Many envied the popularity and abundant glory of Solomon, thinking that of all men he must be the most happy. But amid all that glory of artificial display the man envied is the one to be most pitied. His countenance is dark with despair. All the splendor about him is but to him mockery of the distress and anguish of his thoughts as he reviews his misspent life in seeking for happiness through indulgence and selfish gratification of every desire (The Signs of the Times, February 7, 1878).
(2BC 1030.10)
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