THEOSISPhilaret of Moscow (Drosdow)
The concept of the splendor of the Christian temple should not be mistaken for its outward beauty and grandeur. There is a blessed sentiment within Christians akin to that of the ancient admirer of the temple: “Lord, I love the splendour of Thy house” (Psalm 25:8). Blessed is the heart that resonates with King David’s feelings when he expressed to the Prophet Nathan, “Behold I dwell in a house of cedar, but the covenant of the Lord is under the skins.” He believed it was disgraceful to reside in a magnificent home while the house of God lacked its intended glory. If the Lord has bestowed great blessings upon me, it is only fitting that the finest of these be offered back to Him, the Giver.
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Therefore, I confidently echo the sentiment of the Prophet: “Thou hast done well, because it is in thy heart” (3 Kings 8:18). “All that is in thine heart thou shalt do, because the Lord is with thee” (1 Chron. 17:2). However, if someone were to claim that through their generous contributions to God’s temple they have earned their glory, I would remind them of the words of Haggai the Prophet: “My silver and my gold, saith the Lord Almighty” (Haggai 2:9). You have not enriched God, nor have you elevated His temple; He has bestowed upon you the gifts you present, along with the inclination to dedicate them. Give thanks to Him, rejoice in His presence, and glorify Him; yet, remain humble within yourself. The Lord Almighty alone holds the power and authority to fill the temple with His glory.
The concept of the Christian temple's glory should not be mistaken for its mere splendor and grandeur. There is a sacred joy within believers that echoes the sentiments of the ancient temple lover, as expressed in the words, “Lord, I love the splendour of Thy house” (Psalm 25:8). Blessed indeed is the spirit that resonates with the heart of David, who confided in the Prophet Nathan: “Behold I dwell in the house of the cedar, and the covenant of the Lord is under the skins” (1 Chronicles 17:1). He believed it was disgraceful to reside in an exquisite home while the dwelling of God lacked its rightful magnificence; if the Lord has favored me with abundance, it is fitting that the finest part should be offered to the Giver.
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Therefore, to those who ponder, I can confidently affirm with the Prophet, “Thou hast done well, because it is in thy heart” (1 Kings 8:18). “All that is in thine heart thou shalt do, because the Lord is with thee” (1 Chron. 17:2).