Though many commentators treat 1 Kings 8:12–13 as a separate section or tie them to the previous section (1 Kings 8:1–11), we can connect them with the following verses (1 Kings 8:14–21). Here are some preparatory thoughts before we begin the specific interpretation of 1 Kings 8:12–21.
We need to remind ourselves that from our perspective as Christians, who do not worship God in a physical temple, that this passage comes to us from the realm of type (a person, institution, or event that points beyond itself to something that is to come) and shadow. Many commentators ignore this truth as they come to address this section. They point to what was, to Solomon, the ancient past, more recent past, and the present to show the fulfillment of the Lord’s promise to that present generation. Nevertheless, they do not include in their discussions a future fulfillment in Israel’s Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Without an emphasis referring to him, Christians may well ask how this is relevant to them. Is the only application from this chapter the suggestion that we ought to dedicate our churches, homes, and means of livelihood to the service of the Lord? However, beneficial such an application might be, it does not encompass the main point of the chapter or this portion of it. In our study of the Old Testament Scriptures, we must remember that Jesus said, These are they that testify of me
(John 5:39 KJV). What we are taught of Jesus should always be our question. This section, as well as the rest of the chapter to follow, has something to tell us about Jesus Christ.
12 Then Solomon said, “The LORD has said that he would dwell in thick darkness.