6 "Now therefore, command that they cut for me cedars from Lebanon , and my servants will be with your servants ; and I will give you wages for your servants according to all that you say , for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians ." 7 When Hiram heard the words of Solomon , he rejoiced greatly and said , "Blessed be the Lord today , who has given to David a wise son over this great people ." 8 So Hiram sent word to Solomon , saying , "I have heard the message which you have sent me; I will do what you desire concerning the cedar and cypress timber . 9 "My servants will bring them down from Lebanon to the sea ; and I will make them into rafts to go by sea to the place where you direct me, and I will have them broken up there , and you shall carry them away. Then you shall accomplish my desire by giving food to my household ."
10 So Hiram gave Solomon as much as he desired of the cedar and cypress timber .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Kings 5:6-10
Commentary on 1 Kings 5:1-9
(Read 1 Kings 5:1-9)
Here is Solomon's design to build a temple. There is no adversary, no Satan, so the word is; no instrument of Satan to oppose it, or to divert from it. Satan does all he can, to hinder temple work. When there is no evil abroad, then let us be ready and active in that which is good, and get forward. Let God's promises quicken our endeavours. And all outward skill and advantages should be made serviceable to the interests of Christ's kingdom. It Tyre supplies Israel with craftsmen, Israel will supply Tyre with corn, Ezekiel 27:17. Thus, by the wise disposal of Providence, one country has need of another, and is benefitted by another, that there may be dependence on one another, to the glory of God.
Commentary on 1 Kings 5:10-18
(Read 1 Kings 5:10-18)
The temple was chiefly built by the riches and labour of Gentiles, which typified their being called into the church. Solomon commanded, and they brought costly stones for the foundation. Christ, who is laid for a Foundation, is a chosen and precious Stone. We should lay our foundation firm, and bestow most pains on that part of our religion which lies out of the sight of men. And happy those who, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, for a habitation of God through the Spirit. Who among us will build in the house of the Lord?