He made chains in the inner sanctuary and placed them on the tops of the pillars; and he made one hundred pomegranates and placed them on the chains.

As we study Old Testament history, we see pillars play significant roles. Jacob and Laban used pillars as a promise to God that neither man would trust the other. A pillar of fire led the Israelites through the wilderness. The church is called the pillar and ground of the truth1. God honors Christians as pillars in the temple of God in heaven2. When we read our text, we find that two pillars play a prominent part in worship in Solomon’s Temple. These two pillars were known by name as Jachin and Boaz. We will learn that the message of Jachin and Boaz is simple. We must trust God establish our service for the Lord in His strength.

Solomon constructed the first temple, which was the first permanent place for Israel’s worship. Our text tells us that two pillars stood in front of the temple building. Verse sixteen tells us how those pillars were decorated. These two ornate pillars added to the beauty of the elaborate Temple. 1 Kings 7:21 says, “Thus he set up the pillars at the porch of the nave; and he set up the right pillar and named it Jachin, and he set up the left pillar and named it Boaz.” King Solomon placed the pillars on either side of the entrance to the Temple. As one would enter the Temple courtyard, he could only be impressed with the massive, ornate columns.

In order to derive an application, let us examine the names of the pillars. Other pillars are mentioned in the Bible, but only these two are named specifically, so we may surmise that the names bear special significance. The name Jachin means, ‘He will establish;’ the name Boaz means, ‘In Him is strength.’ When we put the two names together, we may say ‘He will establish it in strength.’ With this in mind, let us take a moment to contrast the Temple with the Tabernacle to illustrate this great spiritual truth. While the arrangement of the Temple was identical to the Tabernacle floor plan, the Tabernacle was only a temporary structure. The Temple was a permanent structure, speaking of strength and stability. Solomon built the pillars to represent the strength and stability of our God.

Let us now consider God’s ability to establish His work. Since God is our only strength, any efforts we make on our own are worthless. Only God’s strength through us can result in lasting results from our service. We can only rely upon God to allow the fruits of our labors to remain. John 15:16 says, “You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.”

What are your thoughts on this verse?

In what way has God proved Himself strong and stable in your life?

Why is God’s work permanent?

What does the strength and stability of God’s work mean for your salvation?