1 Kings 6:1-18
It is not of boards, as in the tabernacle, but of stones that the new house is to be built — a beautiful picture of believers, those "lively stones" which are built up "a spiritual house" (1 Peter 2:5). V. 7 however, teaches us that the stones had been fully dressed before being transported. This world is "the quarry", from which the redeemed are first of all hewn, and in which they are the objects of patient toil on God’s part, before being fit to be introduced into the glorious house. This is what is happening to us right now.
As well as the holy place and the most holy place, the temple had chambers built at its sides, such as were not found in the tabernacle. They were reserved for the priests: a picture of the "many mansions" prepared by the Lord in the Father’s house, so as to be able to have His own with Himself. Stones dressed, chambers furnished! The Lord has prepared, and today is still preparing, His own to occupy a place in His Father’s house. Such is the teaching of John 13; but He has also prepared the place for His own, as John 14 teaches us. Perfect labour of love of our Lord Jesus!