Bible Commentaries
2 Chronicles 5

Verses 1-14

Construction being completed, the happy and solemn ceremony of dedication by the people and consecration by God followed immediately. With awe-inspiring dignity the Ark of God was carried to its resting place-not a new one, but which for long years had been the very center of the nation's lifer Its progress to position was accompanied by vast sacrifices, which spoke eloquently and solemnly of sinful men's only way of approach to God.

Then came a great burst of harmony in which vocal and instrumental music were combined in chanting, the song of the goodness and mercy of God.

Thus man's dedication of the house of God was completed, and it was immediately answered by God's consecration. As in the Tabernacle of old, so now in the new Temple, the cloud of glory possessed and filled the sacred place so that the ministrations of the priests had to cease.

There is an order in this which we do well to consider. Work performed according to the divine order, offered in sacrifice and praise, is acceptable to God. Such work He receives by possessing it with His own presence and glory. Such reception ever halts our service, so that, without activity, even of the highest order, we may wonder and worship.