And there was an enlarging, and a winding about still upward to the side chambers: for the winding about of the house went still upward round about the house: therefore the breadth of the house was still upward, and so increased from the lowest chamber to the highest by the midst.
The chambers' expansion—'went still upward' and 'increased from the lowest chamber to the highest by the midst'—created progressively larger space at each level. This engineering provided stability (wider base) while maximizing upper-floor space. The 'midst' (Hebrew מִסַּבַּב, misabbab) suggests circular or surrounding construction. The upward expansion symbolizes spiritual growth—foundation (narrow) supporting increasing fruitfulness (wider). Reformed theology sees sanctification as progressive enlargement—'grow in grace' (2 Peter 3:18), 'increase and abound' (1 Thessalonians 3:12). The structural necessity (wide base, expanding floors) teaches that spiritual growth requires strong foundations supporting increasing capacity for service.
Historical Context
Solomon's temple chambers similarly expanded at each level: 'The nethermost chamber was five cubits broad, and the middle was six cubits broad, and the third was seven cubits broad' (1 Kings 6:6). This design reduced wall weight on lower floors while maximizing upper storage. Ancient architecture understood load-bearing principles. The graduated increase provided approximately 120 total increased cubits of width across three floors. The practical construction teaches theological truth: proper development starts narrow/small (foundation) and expands upward (maturity). Jesus' parable of talents (Matthew 25:14-30) shows similar principle—faithfulness with little leads to greater responsibility. Church growth should follow this pattern: solid foundation (doctrine) supporting expanding ministry (service).
Questions for Reflection
Is your spiritual life 'going still upward'—progressive growth and increasing capacity—or stagnating?
What solid foundation (narrow lower chamber) supports your expanding upper floors of ministry and service?
How do you ensure that growth builds on proper foundations rather than top-heavy instability?
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Analysis & Commentary
The chambers' expansion—'went still upward' and 'increased from the lowest chamber to the highest by the midst'—created progressively larger space at each level. This engineering provided stability (wider base) while maximizing upper-floor space. The 'midst' (Hebrew מִסַּבַּב, misabbab) suggests circular or surrounding construction. The upward expansion symbolizes spiritual growth—foundation (narrow) supporting increasing fruitfulness (wider). Reformed theology sees sanctification as progressive enlargement—'grow in grace' (2 Peter 3:18), 'increase and abound' (1 Thessalonians 3:12). The structural necessity (wide base, expanding floors) teaches that spiritual growth requires strong foundations supporting increasing capacity for service.