I. Today's Theme: Solomon's Glorious Temple

1:1 It took Solomon seven years to build God's glorious church.

1:2 Prayer that is answered and heard is key to building a glorious church.

II. Scripture: 2 Chronicles 7:14-16

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.

III. Prayer

IV. Background of this Passage

It took Solomon seven years to build God's temple. At a young age, he built the church according to the will of his father, David. When he had built the church, he put the Ark of the Covenant into the temple, and the glory of God filled the temple. However, everyone could not stand. Then Solomon offered a very long prayer, calling on God to answer. Finally, God appeared to Solomon that night.

V. After Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven

5:1 “When Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the temple.” (2 Chronicles 7:1)

5:2 God accepts the sacrifices we offer, and fire comes down from heaven.

5:3 We should have a heart to build a glorious church, and fire will be planted in us.

VI. God's Presence and the Glorious Temple

6:1 God's presence is manifested through man's prayers, offerings, and altars.

6:2 The concept of the church is to establish an altar.

6:3 Walking with God is living out glory.

VII. Key Elements for Prayers to be Heard

7:1 Humility: Knowing our place.

7:2 Prayer: Calling upon God.

7:3 Seeking God's face.

7:4 Turning away from your evil ways.

7:5 Praying within God's glorious church.

VIII. One Key to Prayers Being Heard—Building God's Glorious Temple (Church)

8:1 This temple was personally revealed to David by the Lord God (1 Chronicles 28:11-19).

-We build the glorious church according to the model established by Paul.

8:2 This temple is willingly and freely offered by God's people (1 Chronicles 29:14-17).

-O Lord our God, as for all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name, it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you. I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things I have given willingly and with sincere heart. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. (1 Chronicles 29:17)

8:3 People know they are sojourners on earth.

-For we are aliens and strangers in your sight, as were all our ancestors. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope. (1 Chronicles 29:15)

IX. Conclusion: What we are to build is Solomon's glorious temple (church)