1 Kings 8: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 1 Kings 8 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Solomon assembled the elders of Israel in Jerusalem to bring the ark of Yahweh’s covenant from Zion (vv. 1-2). The priests lifted the ark and carried it along with the Tent of Meeting and its holy items (vv. 3-11). Solomon dedicated the Temple, telling the people that Yahweh chose David to lead Israel and that his son would build a house for Yahweh’s name (vv. 12-21). He offered a prayer asking Yahweh to listen to the prayers of Israel and to forgive their sins (vv. 22-40). Solomon also prayed for foreigners who would come to the Temple to seek Yahweh (vv. 41-53). Finally, the people celebrated the dedication with offerings and feasting for fourteen days (vv. 54-66). They left joyful, praising Yahweh for his goodness to David and to Israel.

Key verse

“But will God in very deed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens can’t contain you; how much less this house that I have built!”
1 Kings 8:27 (WEB)

Outline

1 Kings 8:1–2 Gathering for the Ark
1 Kings 8:3–11 Bringing in the Ark
1 Kings 8:12–21 Solomon's Dedication Speech
1 Kings 8:22–40 Solomon's Prayer of Dedication
1 Kings 8:41–53 Inclusivity of the Temple
1 Kings 8:54–66 The Celebration and Blessing

Discussion questions

In v6, what is the 'ark of Yahweh's covenant' being brought into?
What does Solomon say in v54 after he finishes praying?
Solomon's statement about 'the thick darkness' in v12: what does this imply about God's presence?
In v29, why does Solomon ask for 'your eyes' to be open toward this house?
When have you experienced a moment of dedication similar to Solomon's in v63?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Kings 8: 1 Chronicles 28, 2 Chronicles 6, Exodus 15.

Before next time: read 1 Kings 9.