Once the construction of the temple is complete, Solomon gathers the people of Israel and brings the ark of the LORD into the temple, and the glory of the LORD fills the house. Solomon blesses the people in the LORD's name, for He has promised that His name will be in the temple. Solomon prays to the LORD, acknowledging that He alone is the true God who shows steadfast love and keeps His promises. Therefore, Solomon asks the LORD to keep His promise by listening to the prayers offered to Him in the temple.

Rev. James Uglum, pastor at Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church in St. Peters, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Kings 8:1-30.

"A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, Jesus Christ.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected]