How can we apply the temple's craftsmanship to our church building efforts today? The cedar within: 1 Kings 6:18 “The cedar inside the house had carvings of gourds and open flowers. Everything was cedar; no stone was visible.” This single sentence captures intentional design, skilled labor, and beauty devoted entirely to the Lord’s dwelling. What does that mean for our church construction today? Scripture’s pattern of purposeful craftsmanship • Exodus 31:3-5 — Bezalel is “filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in every kind of craftsmanship.” • 1 Chronicles 28:19 — David says, “All this,” the temple plans, “was put in writing from the hand of the Lord.” • 2 Chronicles 2:7 — Solomon seeks “a craftsman skilled in engraving,” acknowledging that excellence honors God. • Colossians 3:23 — “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • 1 Corinthians 10:31 — “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Principles we can carry into church building today 1. Dedicate the project to God before laying the first brick. • Solomon’s cedar carvings were not artistic whims; they were acts of worship. • By beginning with thanksgiving and consecration, every decision becomes doxology. 2. Pursue skilled workmanship, not hasty shortcuts. • The temple’s hidden stones were covered in cedar—no rough edges left visible. • Hire gifted craftsmen, invite skilled volunteers, and train young tradesmen; excellence disciples. 3. Let beauty preach. • Gourds and open flowers silently proclaimed God’s life-giving creativity. • Thoughtful architecture, tasteful color, natural light, and symbolic art still lift eyes heavenward (Psalm 27:4). 4. Combine durability with reverence. • Cedar resisted decay, hinting at permanence (Psalm 111:3). • Quality materials reduce long-term costs and embody respect for sacred space. 5. Reflect theological truths in design. • Vertical lines remind us of transcendence; open spaces convey invitation (Revelation 22:17). • Baptismal fonts up front declare new life; a central pulpit underscores the authority of Scripture. 6. Keep the unseen as excellent as the seen. • No stone was visible, yet every stone had to be square. • Electrical, structural, and safety work done “unto the Lord” models integrity (Proverbs 11:3). 7. Steward resources wisely. • Costly cedar was balanced by local stone already on site. • Seek materials and methods that honor the budget without cheapening devotion (Luke 16:10). 8. Maintain holiness without ostentation. • The temple’s splendor served God, not Solomon’s ego. • Avoid building that shouts human pride; prioritize gospel ministry over vanity (1 Timothy 6:17-19). Craftsmanship that shapes people, not just walls • Ephesians 2:10 — we are God’s workmanship; building projects train us to value what He values. • 1 Corinthians 3:16 — the congregation is the true temple; the building merely houses living stones. • Hebrews 8:5 — earthly sanctuaries are “a copy and shadow” of heavenly realities; use every beam, nail, and mural to point beyond itself. Living out these truths as a congregation • Invite the body to tour the construction site periodically, explaining how each feature serves worship, fellowship, and outreach. • Celebrate artisans and volunteers publicly, reinforcing Colossians 3:23 in real time. • Commission the finished building with Scripture reading and testimonies, linking physical walls to spiritual mission. By mirroring the temple’s careful craftsmanship—rooted in Spirit-enabled excellence, theological intentionality, and humble stewardship—modern church projects can become tangible sermons of the glory of God and the beauty of His gospel. |
    |