But Solomon built him an house.

ACTS 7:47KJV
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Acts 7:47 (KJV)

What does Acts 7:47 mean?

Acts 7:47 states that Solomon was the one who built a house for God. This verse highlights Solomon’s role in constructing the temple in Jerusalem, which became the central place of worship for the Israelites.

In this passage, Stephen is speaking to the Jewish council, recounting the history of Israel. He points out that, although earlier leaders like Moses and David played key roles, it was Solomon who actually built the temple. This verse sets up Stephen’s larger point about God’s presence not being limited to any one building or location.

The Greek behind Acts 7:47

  • "οἶκος" (oikos, G3624) means "house" and here refers specifically to the temple, not just any dwelling. This word emphasizes the temple as a physical structure meant for God.
  • "οἰκοδομέω" (oikodomeō, G3618) is the verb for "built." The Greek here stresses the act of constructing something substantial and lasting, highlighting Solomon’s active role.

Why Acts 7:47 matters

  • Acts 7:47 clarifies that, in Israel’s history, it was Solomon—not David—who actually built the temple, correcting any confusion about their roles.
  • This verse helps set up Stephen’s argument that God’s presence and work are not confined to the temple, preparing the listener for his challenge to the council’s focus on the building itself.
  • By mentioning Solomon’s building of the temple, Stephen connects the story of Israel’s leaders to his larger message about God’s unfolding plan, which goes beyond any one place or structure.

Where else these words appear

“Solomon” Greek G4672 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 1:6 And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias;
  • Matthew 12:42 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
  • John 10:23 And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch.

“built” Greek G3618 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
  • Luke 4:29 And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong.
  • Acts 4:11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

“house” Greek G3624 · used in 106 verses

  • Matthew 9:6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins,(then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.
  • Luke 10:5 And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.
  • Acts 11:13 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;