Understanding Acts 7:47 - Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary

Acts 7:47 states: "But Solomon built him a house." This verse is a brief but significant reflection on the construction of the temple by Solomon, which represents a monumental event in biblical history.

Summary of Acts 7:47

This verse serves as a reminder of the pivotal role the temple played in Jewish worship. It also culminates Stephen's speech before the Sanhedrin where he recounts Israel's history to highlight God's presence among His people, even outside the temple made with hands.

Commentary Insights from Public Domain Resources

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry notes that Solomon's act of building the temple signifies God's desire to dwell among His people, emphasizing that it is no mere human endeavor but one divinely ordained. He considers it a symbol of providence and grace, showcasing God’s willingness to establish a permanent place for worship.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes expands on the significance of the temple, explaining it was not only a central place for Jewish worship but also a representation of God's covenant with Israel. He suggests that the mention of Solomon is a nod to the fulfillment of God's promises and emphasizes the importance of the temple's symbolism in understanding God's relationship with His people.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke remarks on the historical significance of Solomon's temple, elaborating on the commitment and resources poured into its construction. He analyzes the implications of this verse as part of Stephen’s argument that the presence of God transcends physical structures, asserting God's omnipresence.

Key Themes and Insights

• Divine Presence: The verse emphasizes God’s intention to reside with His people, which adds depth to our understanding of divine intimacy.
• Historical Context: Understanding the historical context enhances our grasp of the temple's role in ancient Israelite worship and its perception amongst Jewish believers.
• The Shift from Structure to Spirituality: The verse serves as a turning point where the understanding of God’s presence is discussed in relation to physical buildings versus the spiritual reality.

Application in Bible Study

When studying Acts 7:47, consider the following applications:

• Reflect on the significance of communal worship and how it has evolved from the physical temple to our modern practices.
• Explore how God's presence is made known and how we foster that presence in our daily lives.
• Discuss the implications of Steven’s speech in recognizing that God’s covenant extends beyond structures, focusing on relationship over ritual.

Cross References

• 1 Kings 6:1: Details the beginning of Solomon’s temple construction.
• 2 Chronicles 6:18-20: Solomon’s prayer dedicating the temple and expressing God's transcendence.
• Hebrews 9:24: Discusses Christ entering the heavenly tabernacle rather than the one made with hands.