“But Solomon built him an house.”
But Solomon built a house for him - the note is deliberately brief: Solomon's building of the temple is presented as a historical fact, but theologically it is preparation for Stephen's argument that follows. The temple is not condemned but contextualized: it is one stage in God's dealing with Israel, not the permanent dwelling place of the divine. The brevity of this statement contrasts with the elaborate discussion of the tabernacle, suggesting Stephen's decreasing interest in the built structure.
Church Fathers on Acts 7:47
But Solomon, it says, built Him a house. Howbeit the Most High dwells not in (places) made with hands. Acts 7:47-50 This was shown indeed already by what had been before said: but it is shown also by the voice of a prophet; What house will you build for Me? Says the Lord God. As says the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will you build for me? Says the Lord: or what is the place of my rest? Hath not my hand made all these things? Isaiah…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
Publish a reflection on this verse
No reflections on this verse yet. Be the first to write one!