2 Chronicles 3: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 3 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

2 Chronicles chapter 3 recounts the construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, a significant milestone in Israelite history and a fulfillment of God's promise to David. The chapter begins by specifying the site of the Temple, Mount Moriah, where God had appeared to David. Solomon meticulously outlines the dimensions and materials to be used, highlighting the grandeur and holiness of the sanctuary. Through this architectural endeavor, Solomon aims to establish a permanent dwelling place for the Lord, signifying the centrality of worship in Israel's life and identity.

Key verse

“Then Solomon began to build Yahweh’s house at Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where Yahweh appeared to David his father, which he prepared in the place that David had appointed, on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.”
2 Chronicles 3:1 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 3:1–2 Foundation of the Temple
2 Chronicles 3:3–7 Measurements and Materials
2 Chronicles 3:8–10 The Most Holy Place
2 Chronicles 3:11–14 Cherubim and Veil
2 Chronicles 3:15–17 Pillars of the Temple

Discussion questions

In v3, what are the dimensions of the foundations Solomon laid for the building of God's house?
What materials does Solomon use to overlay the house in v7?
The gold from Parvaim in v6: why is the specific source of gold mentioned?
The two cherubim made in v10: what might their presence in the most holy place indicate about worship?
When have you poured your best efforts into something, as Solomon did with the Temple in v6?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 3: 1 Kings 6, 1 Kings 7, Ezekiel 41.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 4.