GoD's WorK - God's Puzzle Solved

38 God’s WorkThe Temple PurposeWhy was it necessary for the tabernacle and the temple to exist?Let God’s “word” plainly reveal the truth. On the day of the dedicationof the temple, Solomon prayed to God and revealed thereason God had approved the construction of that temple. First,in Solomon’s prayer, he asked if God will dwell on earth (I Kings8:27). Again, in I Kings 8:43, Solomon states that God dwellsin heaven – and not on the earth. Then why build the temple?The purpose of the temple was to be God’s court. He would“justify” or “release” the righteous (I Kings 8:28-32). There youhave it. The temple, as the tabernacle, was God’s courthouse.In fact, Israel had received a special section in this Court of Law.Later, The Gentiles were also given a specified area in the templecourt, so they could approach God.The temple was not God’s dwelling place, but rather God’s “courtof judgment.” Why is this? It is because Israel was unconverted,unrepentant and rebellious. This Letter of The Law “legalworks” was The Law in court to judge carnal Israel. God hadto give Israel The Letter of The Law which kills (II Corinthians3:7). This was Moses’ administration of death. It could put you todeath, such as an eye for an eye. The purpose of the temple wasto be God’s court to try Israel for their behavior! God knewcarnal Israel couldn’t keep these Laws and The Law, therefore,condemned them. The Letter of The Law was to be kept in itsentirety, or else you were found guilty of breaking it all (James2:10).Christ’s AnswerJesus knew the temple wasn’t where God dwelt. Christ knew thatHis Father’s house was God’s place of “judgment” or “court.”