1. A temple for the Name of the Lord (1-10)

The temple was David's dream, and Solomon accepted it as his own. He wrote his father's friend Hiram king of Tyre for technical assistance and lumber to build the temple and his own palace. The temple was to be great, because God is great. Solomon approached his task with a humble heart. Who could build a house for such a great God? Even the highest heaven cannot contain him. Sinful man cannot approach him. Man's most urgent problem is sin. So the temple was to be a place for blood sacrifices for sin. Blood represents life. This was God's way for sinful man to come to him. The temple was a place of prayer and worship. It was a symbol of God's presence in the midst of Israel.

2. Hiram's answer (11-18)

Hiram praised the God of Israel, the Creator of heaven and earth; and he praised Solomon for his wisdom. He agreed to send a skilled craftsman and lumber in exchange for wheat, etc. Solomon organized the people for the great task.

Application: Almighty and great God, help us do the great task you have given us--making disciples of all nations.
One Word: A great God and a great mission