CONTENTS This chapter is so closely connected with the former, that it may be considered but as a continuation of the same subject. The cloud which filled the house, as an intimation of the divine presence, gives occasion to Solomon to bless God for this grace manifested.... [ Continue Reading ]
In the opening of this chapter, I beg to refer the Reader to the history, as we have it almost literally the same, 1 Kings 8:1. Reader! what a blessed dispensation are we brought under! Jesus sweetly visits his people, and manifests his presence, not in clouds and darkness, but under the enlightenin... [ Continue Reading ]
Observe, Solomon first turns to the people, as if by an enumeration of the divine mercies he aimed to raise their souls into an holy flame of devotion, before that he fell upon his knees to present himself and the people before God. Do we not feel our minds irresistibly led to contemplate the Lord J... [ Continue Reading ]
Those verses throw a light upon the parallel passage in the book of the Kings. While Solomon addressed the people he stood before the altar. But when he came to address the Lord he fell upon his knees.... [ Continue Reading ]
I refer the Reader to the observations made on this prayer already in the Commentary on the 1 Kings 8:1. And only by way of enforcing what was there said, I would beseech the Reader, as he goeth over every part of it, to keep an eye stedfastly fixed on our glorious Solomon, whom the king of Israel h... [ Continue Reading ]
REFLECTIONS Oh! most gracious, most holy, most blessed Lord God Almighty! what expressions of thankfulness can be found sufficient to speak thy love in the unequalled gift of thy dear Son! Was it not enough, O thou Father of mercies, and God of all comfort, that from thine own free grace thou didst... [ Continue Reading ]