Introduction

The verse Acts 7:47 is a pivotal moment in Stephen's defense before the Sanhedrin. His remarks point to the historical significance of Solomon’s temple as an important element of Israel's religious heritage. This commentary compiles insights from various public domain commentators to provide a rich understanding of this verse.

Historical Context

In this section, we shall delve into the background leading to the construction of the temple.

• Matthew Henry: Henry notes that the temple was a fulfillment of God's promise to David, who wished to build a house for the Lord. However, God chose Solomon for this monumental task, illustrating divine selection.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes the significance of Solomon's designation to build the temple, linking it to the broader narrative of God's relationship with Israel.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke highlights that the temple was a symbol of God's presence among His people and thus served a larger purpose than merely being a physical structure.

Theological Significance

Acts 7:47 encapsulates key theological themes associated with the nature and purpose of the temple.

• Divine Presence: The temple is seen as more than just a building; it is a visible representation of God's dwelling among His people.
• God's Covenant: The construction of the temple reflects the ongoing covenant between God and Israel, encapsulating promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
• Matthew Henry: He elaborates on how the temple became the focal point for worship and sacrifice, an institution designed to bring the people closer to God.

Contrasting Views

In this part, we look at how Stephen's speech in Acts serves to challenge the Jewish leaders' understanding of the temple.

• Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that although the temple was constructed in obedience to God's command, it should not confine God, who is omnipresent. Stephen’s implication is that God cannot be limited to one geographical location.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke interprets Stephen's argument as a critique of the Jewish leaders’ blind dependence on the temple, thus emphasizing the spiritual rather than the physical aspects of worship.

Implications for Worship

Acts 7:47 encourages an examination of how worship practices evolve from the physical temple to spiritual worship.

• Matthew Henry: He posits that with the arrival of Christ, the focus of worship transitioned from a physical temple to the spiritual body of Christ, which is the church.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes reiterates that true worship is not confined to a location but rather occurs wherever believers gather in the name of Jesus.

Conclusion

Acts 7:47 serves as a poignant reminder of God's faithfulness in building a "house" for His people, personified in the temple built by Solomon. However, through Stephen’s address, it challenges believers to view their relationship with God as transcending physical structures and realizing the broader spiritual implications of worship.

The reflections from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke together illuminate the enduring significance of Acts 7:47, urging a deeper understanding of worship, presence, and the intentions of God throughout biblical history.