I Kings 7; II Chronicles 4
Yesterday we read about the construction of the Temple with its gold interior and the cherubim in the Holy of Holies. Today we learn of all the Temple furnishings, both inside and out. We have 2 large pillars with their capitals, the altar for burnt offerings, the bronze Sea (i.e., a very large circular basin or bath tub) upon 12 bronze oxen, 10 smaller basins, each on a four-wheeled cart, 10 lampstands (i.e., menorahs), 10 tables, and assorted utensils.
We do not have the space here to explain all these furnishings or to analyze the symbolism of their decorations. But we should note that they are all real tangible objects, many with very practical functions, and they all stir our senses. We have fire on the altar and water in the Sea and basins. We have gold all over the interior of the Temple and an untold amount of bronze outside in the court. All these things are meant to point the worshiper to the LORD.
We, of course, no longer have Solomon’s Temple, but we do have churches of various shapes and sizes. Some, like the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome, are far larger than Solomon’s temple. Some are much more humble, both in size and ornamentation. Yet nearly all hold some furnishings that stir our senses and point us to God: a cross, an altar table, candles, stained glass windows, etc. The next time you enter a church, take a look around. What things are there that you don’t generally see elsewhere? Why are they there? What is their significance? And how might they point you to God?