What does the altar's construction teach about obedience to God's instructions? The Verse in Focus 2 Chronicles 4:1: “He made a bronze altar twenty cubits long, twenty cubits wide, and ten cubits high.” Blueprints Handed Down • God first revealed the altar pattern to Moses (Exodus 27:1–2). • David received the Temple plans “in writing from the hand of the LORD” (1 Chronicles 28:19). • Solomon builds exactly from those God-given specifications—no shortcuts, no creative edits. Exact Dimensions, Exact Obedience • “Twenty cubits…twenty cubits…ten cubits” — the measurements are precise, showing that partial obedience is not obedience at all. • Deuteronomy 12:32 reminds, “See that you do all I command you; do not add to it or take away from it.” • God values faith that acts on His word down to the smallest detail (cf. Hebrews 11:7). Material Matters • The altar is bronze, just as God required in Exodus 27:2. • Bronze in Scripture often signals judgment and atonement; God dictates not only size but substance because symbolism matters to Him. • Following material instructions demonstrates trust in God’s wisdom above human preference. Safety in Submission: Negative Examples • Nadab and Abihu offered “unauthorized fire” and were consumed (Leviticus 10:1-2). • King Uzziah unlawfully burned incense and was struck with leprosy (2 Chronicles 26:16-20). • These accounts underline that creative worship outside God’s pattern invites discipline, not blessing. Fruit of Faithful Construction • After dedication, God answers Solomon with fire from heaven and fills the Temple with glory (2 Chronicles 7:1-3): divine approval follows precise obedience. • 1 Kings 9:3: “I have consecrated this temple…My eyes and My heart will be there for all time.” Acceptance flows from adherence. Lessons for Our Walk Today • God’s instructions in Scripture are never suggestions; they are life-giving commands meant for our good. • Obedience begins with careful listening—knowing exactly what God has said before acting. • Our “altars” today—worship, service, ethics, relationships—are to be built on the unaltered blueprint of the Word. • The blessing of God rests on those who refuse to adjust His measurements, trusting that His design is always best. |
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