1 Chronicles 28:16 – “The weight of gold for each table for consecrated bread; the weight of silver for the silver tables.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, King David is continuing to pass on detailed instructions to Solomon for the construction of the temple. Specifically, he is providing the exact amounts of gold and silver to be used for the tables of consecrated bread. These tables were essential for the temple worship, as they held the bread of the Presence, which symbolized God’s continual provision for His people and His fellowship with them. Each table had its own designated weight of gold or silver, indicating that nothing in the temple was done haphazardly—everything had a specific purpose and value in the worship of God.
Historical Context
David had long desired to build a permanent temple for God, but it was his son Solomon who was chosen for this task. As David prepared Solomon for the work ahead, he provided him with detailed instructions, including the specific materials and weights for various items in the temple. The “table for consecrated bread” refers to the table that held the bread of the Presence, which was part of Israel’s covenantal worship. This bread was placed in the temple as an offering and was a symbol of God’s provision and presence with His people. The use of gold and silver in the construction of the temple’s furnishings further emphasized the sacredness and importance of the temple.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of precision and intentionality in worship. God cares about the details of how He is worshiped, and David’s attention to the exact weight of gold and silver for each table shows that worship is meant to be both beautiful and reverent. The bread of the Presence, which these tables held, symbolized God’s faithful provision for His people, both physically and spiritually. Theologically, this teaches us that God desires to be present with His people and that He provides for their needs. It also reminds us that when we approach God, it should be with respect, reverence, and a desire to offer our best.
Literary Analysis
This verse emphasizes the detailed nature of temple worship. The mention of the “weight of gold” and “weight of silver” for each table highlights the care and precision involved in preparing the temple for worship. The repetition of the word “weight” in this passage suggests that everything in the temple was measured and planned according to God’s standards. The tables, which held the consecrated bread, were not just functional but symbolic, representing the presence of God with His people. The specific mention of materials and their use reinforces the sacredness of every aspect of temple worship.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:23-30: God gives Moses instructions for building the table of showbread in the tabernacle, including its materials and design.
- Leviticus 24:5-9: Instructions for the bread of the Presence, which was to be placed on the table in the tabernacle as a continual offering before the Lord.
- Hebrews 9:2: A reference to the tabernacle and its furnishings, including the table and the consecrated bread, which served as a foreshadowing of Christ’s greater work.
- John 6:35: Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life,” connecting the symbol of the bread of the Presence to His own role as the provider of spiritual nourishment.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse reminds us of the importance of offering our best in worship and service to God. Just as David carefully designated the weight of gold and silver for the temple tables, we are called to approach God with intentionality and reverence, giving Him our best. The bread of the Presence, which these tables held, points to God’s ongoing provision for His people, both in material needs and spiritual nourishment. Today, we can trust that God continues to provide for us, and we can respond with gratitude and faithful service.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in that He desires to dwell with His people and provide for their needs. The bread of the Presence was a continual reminder of God’s faithful provision and His desire to be in fellowship with His people. By giving such specific instructions for the temple, God showed His love for Israel by ensuring they had a sacred place to meet with Him. The use of gold and silver for the temple tables also reflects the value that God places on His relationship with His people—nothing is too precious when it comes to worshiping and honoring Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The bread of the Presence in the Old Testament finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Just as the consecrated bread in the temple symbolized God’s provision for Israel, Jesus is the true “bread of life” (John 6:35), providing spiritual nourishment and eternal life to all who believe in Him. The tables in the temple that held the bread pointed forward to the ultimate provision found in Christ, who sustains us and brings us into fellowship with God. Through Jesus, we no longer need the physical bread of the temple because He is the fulfillment of everything the temple and its furnishings symbolized.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to offer your best to God in worship and service, just as David ensured the temple was built with precision and care?
- What does the bread of the Presence represent, and how can we trust in God’s continual provision in our own lives?
- How does understanding the role of the temple and its furnishings help us appreciate the significance of worshiping God with reverence and respect?
- How does Jesus, as the “bread of life,” fulfill the symbolic meaning of the bread of the Presence in the Old Testament?
- In what ways can you reflect God’s provision and love in your relationships with others, as God provides for you both physically and spiritually?