Commentary on 2 Chronicles 5:7

Verse: "And the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the Lord unto his place, to the oracle of the house, to the most holy place, even under the wings of the cherubims."

Introduction

2 Chronicles 5:7 marks a significant moment in the history of Israel as it describes the transfer of the Ark of the Covenant into the newly constructed temple by King Solomon. This act not only signifies the culmination of David’s lifelong dream to build a temple for the Lord but also represents the presence of God amongst His people. The commentary that follows synthesizes insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to expound on this pivotal event in both historical and theological contexts.

Status of the Ark

The Ark of the Covenant, which contained the tablets of the Law, symbolized God’s presence and covenant with Israel. As Matthew Henry notes, the Ark was the centerpiece of Israel's worship and the embodiment of their relationship with God. The priests’ act of bringing the Ark into the temple underscores the importance of reverent worship and the sacred institution of the priesthood.

The Role of the Priests

The role of the priests in this ceremony is crucial. According to Albert Barnes, the priests acted as mediators between God and the people. Their careful handling of the Ark — performed according to the divine instructions given in the Law — emphasizes the holiness required in approaching God. Here, the dedication of the temple draws attention to the serious nature of worship, emphasizing that it must be done reverently and according to God's standards.

The Significance of the Location

The location of placing the Ark “to the oracle of the house, to the most holy place” holds deep significance. Adam Clarke elucidates this by explaining that the Most Holy Place within the temple was separated by a veil, signifying the sanctity of God’s presence. The Ark, located beneath the wings of the cherubims, symbolizes divine protection and the heavenly mercy seat, where God meets with His people (Exodus 25:22).

Theological Implications

The act of bringing in the Ark signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to dwell among His people. It highlights the importance of worship and God’s desire for a relationship with humanity. As noted by Matthew Henry, the physical act of moving the Ark is a representation of a spiritual reality. It reflects God’s readiness to meet His people and invites them into His presence.

Symbolism of the Cherubim

The cherubim, which are described as guardians of God’s holiness, symbolize the glory of God and His grace. The Ark beneath their wings illustrates the idea of God’s protection and presence dwelling among His people. Albert Barnes notes that just as cherubim symbolize God’s sovereignty, they also demonstrate His mercy. When approaching God, believers can draw on the assurance that they are met with grace.

Conclusion

The transfer of the Ark to the temple embodies not just a historical event but a powerful theological statement about God's desire to dwell among His people. The priests’ actions serve as a reminder of the sacredness of approaching God and underscore the need for reverence in worship. As this moment invites reflections on our own worship practices, it calls for diligence in pursuing a relationship with God that is both respectful and intimate.

Application for Study and Teaching

This passage provides rich material for pastors, theologians, and students of the Bible. It emphasizes the necessity of understanding the practices and traditions of worship that not only draw from Scripture but also honor God’s holiness. In teaching, one may explore:

• The significance of the Ark in the Old Testament and its application in New Testament worship.
• The role of contemporary church leaders in maintaining reverence in worship settings.
• How the themes of presence, holiness, and grace are woven throughout the biblical narrative.