2 chronicles 6:33 - then hear from heaven, even from your dwelling place, and do according to all that the foreigner calls to you for; that all the peoples of the earth may know your name and fear you, as do your people Israel, and that they may know that this house which I have built is called by your name.

Generated Verse: 2 chronicles 6:33

What does "2 chronicles 6:33" mean?


This verse, 2 Chronicles 6:33, is part of Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the Temple. It speaks to the universality of God's compassion and the potential for foreigners (non-Israelites) to find favor with Him through prayer offered towards the Temple. Let's break it down:

"Then hear from heaven, even from your dwelling place...": This refers to God's home in heaven. Solomon is asking God to listen intently and respond to prayers offered toward the Temple.

"...and do according to all that the foreigner calls to you for...": This is the key element. Solomon is specifically requesting that God hear and respond to the prayers of foreigners who come to the Temple seeking His help. This is a radical idea in the ancient world, where deities were often associated with specific nations or people groups. Solomon is suggesting that God's concern extends beyond just Israel.

"...that all the peoples of the earth may know your name and fear you, as do your people Israel...": The purpose of God answering the prayers of foreigners is to demonstrate His power and grace to all nations. By experiencing God's help, foreigners will come to recognize and acknowledge His name (His character and reputation) and have reverential fear (respect and awe) of Him, just as the Israelites do. This is about evangelism and the spread of God's fame.

"...and that they may know that this house which I have built is called by your name.": The Temple, being called by God's name, would become a focal point for people from all nations to encounter God. The Temple's reputation as a place where God answers prayers would draw more people to seek Him.

In Summary:

Solomon's prayer envisions the Temple as a place where foreigners can encounter God and experience His power. The purpose is to make God known to all nations, so they will recognize and fear Him. The Temple itself becomes a symbol of God's presence and a testament to His universal love and concern. This verse highlights the potential for God to be a blessing to all nations, not just Israel, and hints at the future inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan of salvation.

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