Scripture: 1 Kings 5:1-5; 8:1-13
Main Themes: Sacred space, control vs. surrender, transformation over time, God’s presence in the human heart
Discussion Questions:
- Building and Becoming:
- The temple took seven years to build. In that time, how have you seen yourself spiritually or emotionally grow over long stretches of time?
- Solomon’s identity evolved through the project—from self-serving ambition to spiritual insight. How do you relate to the idea of becoming someone new through extended effort or transformation?
- Where God Dwells:
- The sermon emphasizes that God never asked for a temple, preferring to dwell among the people. What does that say about our modern ideas of “sacred space”?
- How can we make space for God to “dwell” in our lives today—at work, at home, in community?
- Control and Containment:
- Pastor Mark said, “We want God to stay put. To be tame.” In what ways do we try to limit God to fit our preferences or agendas?
- When have you experienced God surprising you—breaking out of boxes you tried to place God in?
- Legacy and Purpose:
- Solomon may have been building a temple to secure his legacy. What legacy are you hoping to leave? How does your faith guide that vision?
- How can we, like Solomon eventually did, shift from building monuments to fostering movements rooted in God’s love?
- The True Temple:
- The sermon ends with a powerful reminder: “The only dwelling place God wants… is the sanctuary of the human heart.” What practices help you become more aware of God’s presence within?
- What would it look like for our church to be more focused on building the “temple of the heart” than the physical building?
