What can we learn about worship from Solomon's actions in 2 Chronicles 7:5? An Opening Snapshot of Solomon’s Worship “King Solomon offered a sacrifice of twenty-two thousand oxen and one hundred and twenty thousand sheep. So the king and all the people dedicated the house of God.” (2 Chronicles 7:5) Extravagant Sacrifice Reveals God’s Worth • Twenty-two thousand oxen and 120,000 sheep represent an almost unimaginable expense. • Worship that costs nothing risks meaning nothing (2 Samuel 24:24). • Honoring the Lord with the “firstfruits of all your harvest” (Proverbs 3:9) is a present-day echo. • True worship gladly parts with what is valuable because God is infinitely more valuable (Philippians 3:7-8). Whole-Community Participation • “ … the king and all the people …”—leadership and laity worship together. • Corporate worship invites every voice (Psalm 34:3) and every gift (1 Peter 4:10). • Unity before God magnifies His glory (Romans 15:6). Leadership That Sets the Pace • Solomon personally leads the offering; he does not delegate devotion. • Spiritual leaders model wholehearted worship (Hebrews 13:7). • When leaders visibly value God, the people are strengthened to do the same (1 Chronicles 29:9). Dedication of Space—and Self • The temple is set apart “to the LORD” (v. 5). • In Christ, believers become the temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20); worship now involves dedicating our very bodies. • Romans 12:1 calls this “living sacrifice,” a daily act of setting ourselves apart for God’s pleasure. Joyful Celebration, Not Reluctant Duty • The sheer scale of the feast implies festivity, not begrudging compliance. • Psalm 100:2—“Serve the LORD with gladness”—captures the heart behind large-scale sacrifice. • Cheerful generosity flows from grace received (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). Key Takeaways for Today – Let worship be costly enough to declare God’s surpassing worth. – Step into corporate gatherings expecting to give, not merely to observe. – Lead—whether in a home, classroom, or church—by visibly treasuring God. – Dedicate every resource, space, and moment to the Lord’s use. – Maintain joy; worship is celebration of a God who has given us far more than we ever give Him. |
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