Why couldn’t David build the temple?

David was not allowed to build the temple because of the warfare and bloodshed during his reign. God chose Solomon to build it in a time of peace, fulfilling His promise in 2 Samuel 7.

What is the significance of Solomon preparing before building?

Solomon’s preparation—forming alliances, gathering materials, and organizing labor—shows that godly wisdom plans patiently and intentionally. It also points to Christ, who builds His church with order and purpose.

How does 1 Kings 5 point to Jesus?

1 Kings 5 points forward to Christ, the true temple. Just as Solomon prepared stone and timber, Jesus prepares living stones—His people—for a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5).

Preparing to Build for God’s Glory 1 Kings 5 (July 31, 2025)

Name: Preparing to Build (1 Kings 5)
Uploaded: 2025-07-31
Channel: Dave Jenkins
Description: In 1 Kings 5, Solomon begins preparing to build the temple with wisdom, peace, and purpose. This devotional explores how God fulfills His promises through Christ, the true and better temple.

⏱️ Estimated Reading Time: 2 min read

Preparing to Build for God’s Glory – 1 Kings 5

By Dave Jenkins | July 31, 2025

Episode Summary: In 1 Kings 5, Solomon begins preparations for the construction of the temple—a task deeply rooted in covenant promise, wisdom, and divine timing. What we find is not impulsive action but thoughtful leadership. Solomon gathers resources, forges partnerships, and organizes labor—all to build a house not for his name, but for the name of the Lord his God.

Key Themes in 1 Kings 5

God’s Promises Are Fulfilled in His Time – David longed to build the temple, but God reserved that role for Solomon.
Peace Precedes Purpose – Solomon could build because God gave rest on every side (v. 4).
Wisdom Requires Preparation – Solomon planned, organized labor, and sought excellence in every detail.
God’s Glory Is the Goal – “A house for the name of the Lord my God” (v. 5).

Christ-Centered Reflection

The temple was never the ultimate goal—it pointed to Jesus, the true and better temple. Just as Solomon prepared timber and stone, Christ prepares His people as living stones in His spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5). Now, the presence of God dwells not in a building, but in His people by the Spirit.

Takeaways for Daily Life

Private: Don’t rush spiritual growth. Prepare through prayer and truth.
Family: Build your home on God’s Word with patience and purpose.
Church: Support godly leaders who prepare wisely for the Lord’s work.
Culture: Live for the name of the Lord, not self-glory or worldly success.

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Dave Jenkins

Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.