| David’s Family |
1 Chronicles 1:1–2:17
Just curious, did you read all those names? Not to brag, but I did. Only because I know it’s all inspired by God, it’s all there for a reason, I always learn something new in reading these genealogies, and every once in a while you find a little “nugget” tucked away in the midst of all those names.
1 and 2 Chronicles pretty much cover the same material we read in 2 Samuel, and 1 and 2 Kings, honing in on the southern kingdom of Judah. We’ll have nine chapters of genealogies and then begin the reign of David in chapter 10.
More than likely 1 and 2 Chronicles were written by Ezra, and it’s for that reason you’ll notice a distinctly priestly perspective. Genealogies would be important to Ezra who wrote to encourage those in captivity of their divine heritage and godly ancestry, especially kings and priests (Ezra 2:59, 62). As you read the history of the kings in Israel and then Judah (after the kingdom divided), you’ll find further details in 1 and 2 Chronicles. Ezra had time to pull from other resources, all under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
Warren Wiersbe said this of 1 and 2 Chronicles, “These books were important to the Jews who returned to the land after the captivity. The genealogy established their tribal connections, something especially significant to the priests (Ezra 2:59–62). The people needed David’s example of godliness, and the emphasis on the temple was needed at a time when it had to be rebuilt. The books of 1 and 2 Chronicles encourage people seeking to rebuild in a time of change and difficulty. As you read 1 and 2 Chronicles, you will want to note the cross-references to Samuel and Kings and compare complementary passages.”
The book begins with Adam, and swiftly moves to Noah and his three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth.
One of the descendants of Shem was a man named Peleg, for in his days the earth was divided (1 Chronicles 1:19). Some have speculated that this speaks of continental drift.
Another descendant of Shem was named Abram (1 Chronicles 1:24), a name changed by God to Abraham (Abram = exalted father; Abraham = father of a multitude) (Genesis 17:5). He’s the human father of the Jews.
1 Chronicles here hones in on the two sons of Isaac – Esau (Seir) and Israel (Jacob). In respect to Israel, the Chronicler interestingly begins in the tribe of Judah and her kings.
In the midst of many names, we have little bits of information. We’re reminded (and warned) of the sins of Er and Achan.
1 Chronicles 2:3 (NKJV) “The sons of Judah were Er, Onan, and Shelah. These three were born to him by the daughter of Shua, the Canaanitess. Er, the firstborn of Judah, was wicked in the sight of the LORD; so He killed him.”
1 Chronicles 2:7 (NKJV) “The son of Carmi was Achar, the troubler of Israel, who transgressed in the accursed thing.”
What will the summary of our lives be? After all, God knows us ALL by name.
(Summary of the Book of 1 Chronicles in Got Questions)
1 Chronicles 2:18–4:4
The primary lineage the Chronicler provides at this point is that of David, King of Israel. The king’s lineage however, goes beyond the book of 2 Kings and even through the time of the exile, thus demonstrating the importance of these records to the Jews. Eventually the Bible traces Jesus, the King of kings through this very lineage of David.
Hezron’s lineage is the emphasis of 1 Chronicles 2:18-24. Hezron was the son of Perez and grandson of Judah. He is listed in the genealogies of Christ (Matthew 1:3; Luke 3:33).
Jerahmeel’s lineage is the emphasis of 1 Chronicles 2:25-41. Jerahmeel was one of the three sons of Hezron through whom the genealogy of Judah is traced.
Caleb’s lineage is the emphasis of 1 Chronicles 2:42-55. This is not the same Caleb we saw in the book of Joshua. This Caleb is another son of Hezron, descendant of Judah.
In Chronicles 3:1-8 we have the family of David, King of Israel, followed by his son Solomon – and the subsequent kings (1 Chronicles 3:10-16). 2 Kings ends with King Jehoiachin and King Zedekiah (Jehoicahin’s uncle). 1 Chronicles lists the descendants of Jehoiachin (also known as Jechoniah). Jechoniah is mentioned in the kingly lineage of Jesus in Matthew 1:11-12.
After establishing the royal lineage, the book of Chronicles then begins to list the genealogies of the various tribes of Israel, beginning with Judah (1 Chronicles 4).
Below is the complete picture of David’s family from the Bible Knowledge commentary.
1 Chronicles 4:5–5:17
The Chronicler simply lists the significant names in the various families. In this section of reading we have the family of Judah (1 Chronicles 4:1-23). The family of Simeon (1 Chronicles 4:24-43). The family of Reuben (1 Chronicles 5:10). The family of Gad (1 Chronicles 5:11-22).
The reason for the list in this order is explained in:
1 Chronicles 5:1–2 (NKJV) “Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel—he was indeed the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s bed, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph, the son of Israel, so that the genealogy is not listed according to the birthright; 2 yet Judah prevailed over his brothers, and from him came a ruler, although the birthright was Joseph’s.”
When Reuben was younger he slept with his father’s concubine. The Scriptures don’t tell us if his father Jacob said or did anything to him at the time, only that he’d heard what happened. At the end of his life, however, Jacob issued this punishment upon his son – the loss of his birthright as firstborn because of what he had done years earlier (Genesis 35:22; 49:4).
You may have noticed tucked away in the midst of all those names, an amazing testimony in a man named Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:9-10). His name means “pain.” Apparently his mother named him that because he caused her pain (but what child doesn’t?). Imagine going around, living life with a name like that! It followed him. Sometimes those names people call us stick with us, next thing you know Jabez IS causing people pain…so he prayed. He asked four things of God:
1. That God would bless him indeed.
2. That God would enlarge his territory.
3. That God’s hand would be with him.
4. That God would keep him from evil, SO THAT HE WOULD NOT CAUSE PAIN.
We should all pray for God’s true blessings upon our lives. An enlargement of our territory may be physical land, but it also may be interpreted as the grace to reach more people with His glorious Gospel. What can we do without God’s hand upon us? But what can’t we do if His hand is with us? (see Acts 4:30; 11:21). O that God would keep us from evil! Why would we ask such a thing? So that we would not grieve the LORD or cause pain to others. It’s a great prayer that some have been led to pray (it’s always good to pray Bible). But don’t pray it as a mantra, pray it from the heart.
God granted him that request – so much so, that Jabez became more honorable than his brothers (1 Chronicles 4:9). You may have noticed that an entire territory in Israel bears his name (1 Chronicles 2:55).
The story of Jabez is a testimony of how God can intervene and change anyone’s life – but we must pray and seek the Lord as Jabez did. Many years ago I read a book by Bruce Wilkinson entitled, “The Prayer of Jabez.” It was a good read – we just need to be careful not to “market” or mantra the prayer.
1 Chronicles 5:18–6:81
We begin this section of the genealogy with the account of an alliance of the 2 1/2 tribes located on the east side of the Jordan. When the children of Israel entered the land in their inception, they went to war and won. The reason for their victory is given in:
1 Chronicles 5:20 (NKJV) “And they were helped against them, and the Hagrites were delivered into their hand, and all who were with them, for they cried out to God in the battle. He heeded their prayer, because they put their trust in Him.”
These 2 1/2 tribes of Israel cried out to God in battle – they put their trust in Him, so He heeded their prayer and helped them. It’s as simple as that, a lesson for us all…that we would do the same in our every day “battles.”
Fast forward a few centuries, and these same 2 1/2 tribes – who once trusted the LORD, turned away from Him. God therefore allowed the Assyrians to come, conquer, and carry them away captive. Such a tragedy.
We all have that choice, to serve God or not. Here we see the clear contrast – the diametrically different results – victory or captivity, life or death? The choice is ours (Deuteronomy 30:19).
Chapter 6 begins with the sons of Levi.
Bible Knowledge Commentary, “Levi’s genealogy begins by referring to the line of which Moses and Aaron were a part because of their obvious importance.”
This chapter goes on to trace the lineage of the High Priests until the time of the captivity (1 Chronicles 6:14).
Levi was the priestly tribe, and just as Jacob (Israel) is known for his twelve sons, Levi is known for his three sons, Gershon, Kohath, and Merrari. Here we have the priest’s families and cities saturated throughout the nation of Israel. The priests were not allowed to own the land (for the LORD was their portion), but they were granted land to live on from each tribe, along with its common-lands (pasture).
Chronicles is written by a priest (Ezra) with a priestly perspective. It’s for that reason the priests are given a little more attention at this point, with an emphasis upon the musicians appointed by David (another musician). These musicians would lead worship at the Tabernacle and eventually the Temple (1 Chronicles 6:31-32).
1 Chronicles 7:1–8:40
Today’s Old Testament reading includes genealogies of:
The tribe of Issachar (1 Chronicles 7:1-5).
The tribe of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 7:6-12).
The tribe of Naphtali (briefly) (1 Chronicles 7:13).
The tribe of Manasseh (west) (1 Chronicles 7:14-19).
The tribe of Ephraim (1 Chronicles 7:20-29).
The tribe of Asher (1 Chronicles 7:30-40).
We conclude with the Tribe of Benjamin, honing in on the family tree of King Saul.
To us, most of these are random names, but to the LORD, every name is valuable – He knows us all by name (Exodus 31:2; John 10:3).
Woven in and throughout the genealogies you may have noticed that phrase, “mighty men of valor.” It’s found nine times in today’s reading. Mighty men of valor speaks of strong men of heroic courage, fighting men, fit for war, full on warriors. We need men like this in our nation, and we need men like this in the Kingdom of God (2 Timothy 2:3-4).
1 Chronicles 9:1–10:14
We’re nearing the end of the genealogies in 1 Chronicles. It’s good to keep in mind that the books of 1 and 2 Chronicles are written from a priestly perspective, so it’s no wonder the city of Jerusalem and the tribe of Levi (the priestly tribe) get more attention in this section.
Today’s reading covers:
The dwellers in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 9:1-9)
The priests in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 9:10-13)
The Levites in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 9:14-16)
The gatekeepers (1 Chronicles 9:17-27)
The Levitical servants (1 Chronicles 9:28-34)
The family of King Saul and his death (1 Chronicles 9:35-10:14)
Verse 1 of chapter 9 gives us a brief description of how Judah was conquered and carried away captive by the Babylonians (586 B.C.). The reason? Unfaithfulness. After years of warning from God and His prophets, the sins of the nation persisted and His people were therefore judged.
Seventy years later the Jews were permitted to return to the land. As a matter of fact the Bible Knowledge Commentary said this, “The purpose of the remainder of chapter 9 is to identify the people who settled in Jerusalem and Gibeon after their return from the Exile.” So we read in:
1 Chronicles 9:2 (NLT) The first of the exiles to return to their property in their former towns were priests, Levites, Temple servants, and other Israelites.
We read of the Dwellers in Jerusalem, Priests who headed up the ministry, Levites, who were helpers to the priests, and the Gatekeepers.
Holmon Bible Dictionary explains what a gatekeeper is, “One who guards access to a place, either a city (2 Sam. 18:26; 2 Kings 7:10–11), a residence (John 18:17), the sacred precincts of the ark (1 Chron. 15:23–24), or the temple (1 Chron. 23:5). KJV uses “porter.” Temple gatekeepers were charged with preventing anyone unclean from entering the temple (2 Chron. 23:19) and with guarding the temple treasuries and storehouses (1 Chron. 9:26; 26:20–22; Neh. 12:25).”
I’m fascinated by the detailed responsibilities of the Levites in 1 Chronicles 9:28-34. There were those in charge of the serving vessels, furnishings, fine flour, wine, and oil. There who those who made spices, others who baked, and those who prepared the showbread each week. We read in 1 Chronicles 9:33 of the singers who were free from other responsibilities, they did music ministry full-time. As I read this section I’m reminded that the church is described as a body. We’re all different parts of that body with different responsibilities, and we all need each other. What’s your part? Ask God and He will reveal this to you; if you’re willing to follow Him, He will lead you, and use you for His glory and their good (see 1 Corinthians 12:15-27; Ephesians 4:15-16).
The account of King Saul and his sons killed in battle is a heartbreaking story. Not necessarily that he died (for we will all die one day). It’s just the fact that his death was premature and his death was due to his unfaithfulness (1 Chronicles 10:13). It’s truly tragic how his unfaithfulness caused the death of his sons and the defeat of a nation. King Saul had a good beginning, but a terrible ending. God help us to learn from his tragedy. How will our lives end? May we finish well.
1 Chronicles 10:13–14 (NKJV) “So Saul died for his unfaithfulness which he had committed against the LORD, because he did not keep the word of the LORD, and also because he consulted a medium for guidance. 14 But he did not inquire of the LORD; therefore He killed him, and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse.”
1 Chronicles 11:1–12:18
1 Chronicles covers pretty much the same timeframe found in 2 Samuel – but from a priestly perspective. In 2 Samuel, however, we find that initially, after the death of King Saul, Ishbosheth his son was crowned king over eleven tribes of Israel and David was king over the house of Judah. Eventually the elders of the nation (and generals) and of course, God, crowned David as king over ALL Israel.
After thirteen years as a fugitive, living in caves, in the wilderness, and on the run as a wanted man, David was finally crowned king! This was according to the word (prophecy) of Samuel back in 1 Samuel 16:1-13. One might wonder why David had to wander – why did he have to go through so many trials?
The hard times are to prepare us, to mold us and shape us, to instill the character needed to fulfill our calling – for David it would be the calling of a king.
The key was always – and will always be the perpetual presence of God.
1 Chronicles 11:9 (NKJV) “So David went on and became great, and the LORD of hosts was with him.”
The Chronicler goes on to list David’s mighty men. These men were gifted, loyal, mighty men of valor (heroic courage). There’s no way David could possibly have been the king he became, had God not surrounded him with such an awesome army, and elite “fleet.” Consider Benaiah:
1 Chronicles 11:22 (NKJV) “Benaiah was the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man from Kabzeel, who had done many deeds. He had killed two lion-like heroes of Moab. He also had gone down and killed a lion in the midst of a pit on a snowy day.”
He faced the worst enemy, in the worst place, under the worst circumstances – and prevailed. Over the years I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by people much better than me in many, many ways – and I’m grateful to God.
I’m saddened when I read that Urijah was one of David’s mighty. David backslid, fell into adultery with Bathsheba, and murdered Uriah in an attempt to cover it up. (2 Samuel 11)
When you read the formation of David’s mighty men while on the run in Ziklag and other places, you find that they were men who were in debt, distressed, and discontented – they were a rag-tag bunch of guys, a motley crew, but God made them amazing soldiers. It reminds me of the Apostles. It reminds me of me. I’m so grateful that God chooses the weak things of the world to be saved and then even to serve Him (1 Corinthians 1:26-27).
Many of the soldiers were ambidextrous, they were gifted, they had faces like lions and ran like gazelles. They fought for their nation. God calls us to be soldiers in His Kingdom, but it’s the Kingdom of God. I pray you would discover, develop, and deploy your gifts for His Kingdom (1 Peter 4:10; 2 Timothy 2:3-4).
One last thing for today. It is very important to be loyal when you’re part of a team. David was blessed, but also concerned at times. How beautiful when you see loyalty in the church and have men and women who can humbly keep rank (see also 1 Chronicles 12:38).
1 Chronicles 12:17–18 (NKJV) “And David went out to meet them, and answered and said to them, “If you have come peaceably to me to help me, my heart will be united with you; but if to betray me to my enemies, since there is no wrong in my hands, may the God of our fathers look and bring judgment.” 18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, chief of the captains, and he said: “We are yours, O David; We are on your side, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, And peace to your helpers! For your God helps you.” So David received them, and made them captains of the troop.
1 Chronicles 12:19–14:17
At this time (early on) David’s army had grown to well over 300,000 strong. In this section we continue to see the history of the formation of “David’s Mighty Men,” as well as their support for David as King. It wasn’t as if David was drafting the guys or forcing them to join, no, they were coming of their own volition – God was the one drawing them in.
1 Chronicles 12:22 (NKJV) “For at that time they came to David day by day to help him, until it was a great army, like the army of God.”
When we do things God’s way, just letting the Lord rule in our hearts, we’re going to experience what Israel did during the reign of David – who is a typology of Jesus – joy.
1 Chronicles 12:40 (NKJV) “…for there was joy in Israel.”
David loved the Lord and wanted God to be the foundation of their nation, so he had it in his heart to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. It had been in Kirjath Jearim for the past 100 years.
It was the right thing to do – but – we need to make sure to do the right thing, the right way. Tragically, David didn’t transport the Ark according to the Scriptures. The Ark was to be carried on poles by the priests who were the sons of Kohath, the son of Aaron (Numbers 4:4; 7:9). It was not to be touched by anyone else. It didn’t matter that it was a nice new cart they moved it on, and it didn’t matter that Uzza was a nice guy with good intentions. When Uzza touched the Ark, he died immediately. Everyone was instantly reminded of the holiness of God and the importance of doing things according to the Scriptures.
When Uzza died, David was angry. Isn’t it crazy how we sometimes blame the Lord for the consequences of our own rebellion? ALL the bad that happens in the world today – is due to our own sin, going all the way back to Adam and Eve.
We’ll see in 1 Chronicles 15 that David learns from his mistake and moves the Ark God’s way. In the meantime God continues to graciously bless David in many ways, including a king’s palace, establishing him as ruler in Israel.
Whenever good things happen, we must be ready for our enemies to oppose us. Sure enough, that’s the case with David, and the Philistines (Israel’s archenemy) comes against him. I love the way David “inquired of God,” twice (1 Chronicles 14:10, 14) and how God directed David with details on how to defeat the Philistines. He will do the same for us, if we seek Him.
1 Chronicles 15:1–16:36
David built houses for himself, but the emphasis of this chapter is the Tabernacle of the Lord…and not just the Tabernacle, but the Ark of the Covenant which symbolized the presence of God.
Back in 1 Chronicles 13 we read about the error David made in not transporting the Ark according to the Scriptures. It ended in the death of Uzza. This time, however, David does it right, he learned from his tragic mistake.
1 Chronicles 15:2 (NKJV) “Then David said, “No one may carry the ark of God but the Levites, for the LORD has chosen them to carry the ark of God and to minister before Him forever.”
1 Chronicles 15:13 (NKJV) “For because you did not do it the first time, the LORD our God broke out against us, because we did not consult Him about the proper order.”
David made it not only a holy celebration but a joyful celebration. He made sure the participants sanctified themselves. And he made sure there was plenty of praise and worship – singers, with stringed instruments, trumpets, cymbals and resounding joy.
David was unashamed in his worship of God. He danced, and whirled, and played music in his praise and procession. What a wonderful thing it is when we’re set free to worship God like this – from the heart, joyful for His grace and presence; grateful for all He’s done – for who He is. Too often we hold back in shame, we’re reserved in our expressions of worship, but here we see David exemplifying a passionate praise. It’s sad to see his wife, Michal, disgusted with David for the way he praised the Lord. She’s symbolic of how the enemy HATES it, when we praise God like this.
David set up a Tabernacle for the Ark, blessed the people, and distributed food to all. This prompted a Psalm which was actually a compilation of three other Psalms (Psalm 105:1-15; 96:1-13; 106:1, 47-48)
1 Chronicles 16:8, 34 are the book ends to this Psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Chronicles 16:8 (NKJV) “Oh, give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples!”
1 Chronicles 16:34 (NKJV) “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.”
We are to call upon the Lord. Sing and talk of His wondrous works so that others might seek the Lord. We are to continue to seek the LORD – even His face (His presence) forevermore! (Psalm 16:12).
The LORD is our God and we are His covenant people. He has provided for us. He sets boundaries to protect us – so no one can touch us without His permission (Psalm 16:22).
The LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is God, He is the only God, all others are not gods, we are therefore called to give Him ALL the glory – to bring our offerings – to worship, tremble, and rejoice that He reigns.
The LORD is coming to judge the earth (Psalm 16:33) and finish what He started.
David wants us to say these words:
1 Chronicles 16:35 (NKJV) “And say, ‘Save us, O God of our salvation; gather us together, and deliver us from the gentiles (in this context non-believers), to give thanks to Your holy name, to triumph in Your praise.”
Go ahead, say it if you haven’t already. And then add a hearty, “Amen.” (Psalm 16:36)
1 Chronicles 16:37–18:17
David brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and left the Levites to serve in the Tabernacle. I like the way 1 Chronicles 16:37 puts it, “…as each day’s work required.” Life is like that, isn’t it? Especially in the ministry. You never know what will take place each day, who will call, who will come in, tragedies, victories, prayer requests, offerings and opportunities, various areas of service for God’s people. As we live life one day at a time, we should serve as the Levites did, “…as each day’s work,” will require.
There in the Tabernacle, the burnt offerings were offered up every morning and evening (1 Chronicles 16:40), which is significant to me. I always try to start the day dedicating myself to God, which is what the burnt offering symbolizes – giving all that I am to Him. I then aspire to go out and live my day for Him in all that I do, and in all that I am. But it would also be good to do something special in the evening as well…to end the day in a significant way with God.
David had it in his heart to build a Temple for God. He mentioned it to Nathan who hastily gave him the green light. But when Nathan went home, the LORD told him that wasn’t His plan. God planned to build a “house” for David but David wouldn’t build a house for God. Nathan was sent back to the king with the news…David’s son would build the Temple, not him. David wasn’t upset, as a matter of fact, he was blessed and humbled, considering all that God had done for him, and the fact that his sons would follow after him, as kings, God would build a dynasty from David. I often echo the words he spoke at this point:
1 Chronicles 17:16 (NKJV) “Then King David went in and sat before the LORD; and he said: ‘Who am I, O LORD God? And what is my house, that You have brought me this far?’”
David went on to thank God, to praise God, and he even prayed that God would indeed, bring it all to pass (1 Chronicles 17:24).
In 1 Chronicles 18 we have David’s further conquests of other lands and a list of his administration. Part of the reason this is provided is simply history, for us to see that this is what God did through David. But another reason (from a priestly perspective) is we see that this is the way God would provide the gold, silver, and bronze that would be used by his son Solomon, to build the Temple. Just because David couldn’t build it himself, didn’t mean that he couldn’t be part of it. He would give His son the treasures necessary, the vision, the heart, and even the plans to build a house for the glory of God.
Don’t you just love the way, “the Lord preserved David wherever he went?” (1 Chronicles 18:6, 13). He does the same for us. He’s a good and gracious God (see Psalm 121:7-8).
The chapter closes with a list of David’s administration (1 Chronicles 18:15-17). Although David was clearly favored, appointed, and anointed by God, there’s no man who can do a good work without a good team that’s “with him.”
1 Chronicles 19:1–21:30
David genuinely offered condolences and wanted to show kindness to the country of Ammon, as their king had passed.
1 Chronicles 19:2 (NKJV) “Then David said, ‘I will show kindness to Hanun the son of Nahash, because his father showed kindness to me.’ So David sent messengers to comfort him concerning his father. And David’s servants came to Hanun in the land of the people of Ammon to comfort him.”
But the princes of the people had a twisted heart (often times we are a ill-intentioned people and suspect others to be the same way we are). The princes convinced their new king that these messengers of David were only sent to spy out the land in order to overthrow it…so they sent the men back shamefully.
Word is sent to David, who instructs the men to wait in Jericho until their beards grow back before returning home, but David wastes no time in sending Joab out to fight the Ammonites (he would later join them). I’ve always loved Joab’s philosophy for the battle:
1 Chronicles 19:12–13 (NKJV) “Then he said, ‘If the Syrians are too strong for me, then you shall help me; but if the people of Ammon are too strong for you, then I will help you. 13 Be of good courage, and let us be strong for our people and for the cities of our God. And may the LORD do what is good in His sight.’”
The Ammonites had hired the Syrians and it was looking to be a tough battle. Joab’s words are good words for us to take to heart. If what I’m going through is too tough for me, would you help me? And if what you’re facing seems to be too tough for you, I want you to know that I’ll do anything I can to help you. Let’s be strong with God’s strength, let’s fight for our families, our flock, and the future of our nation, and yet all along knowing the results are ultimately in God’s hands.
Thankfully the Lord gave Israel a great victory. He will do the same for us.
1 Chronicles 20:1 takes us back to the same time-frame as 2 Samuel 11:1. This is when David tragically fell into adultery with Bathsheba and then went on to murder her husband Uriah. We’re not sure why the Chronicler omitted this incident…but the story had already been told.
We do read of Israel’s victory over Rabbah. David arrived towards the end of that battle to claim a crown that weighed 75 pounds (a talent of gold).
Warren Wiersbe, “But all crowns are heavy, for it is not an easy thing to be a leader.”
Giants have a way of showing up, time and time again. Thank God David’s men had learned from their leader. We read in 1 Chronicles 20:4-8 of a variety of David’s soldiers slaying giants. By God’s grace, we too, as followers of Jesus, can slay “giants!” (defeat demons and move mountains)
This next series of events can be a bit confusing. According to 2 Samuel 24:1 the anger of the LORD was aroused against Israel, so we read that God moved David against them, to number the people. Here we read in 1 Chronicles 21:1, that it was Satan who moved David to number the people.
I found the following explanation to be helpful, “Both statements are true. Although it was Satan who immediately incited David, ultimately it was God who permitted Satan to carry out this provocation. Although it was Satan’s design to destroy David and the people of God, it was God’s purpose to humble David and the people and teach them a valuable spiritual lesson. This situation is quite similar to the first two chapters of Job in which both God and Satan are involved in the suffering of Job. Similarly, both God and Satan are involved in the crucifixion. Satan’s purpose was to destroy the Son of God (John 13:2; 1 Cor 2:8). God’s purpose was to redeem humankind by the death of His Son (Acts 2:14-39).” – Thomas Howe; Norman L. Geisler, Big Book of Bible Difficulties
David should have never numbered the people, and neither should we. May we simply trust God who can save by many or few (1 Samuel 14:6).
After he received the results from Joab, David was convicted. His confession may have helped, but it was too late to avoid the consequences. God sent the prophet Gad to David with options on how Israel would be disciplined. David chose the shorter sentence – the one that left them ONLY in the hands of the Lord. A plague hit the land and 70,000 men of the people died (David’s army just shrank)! It is also possible that the total tally did not include women and children (so there may have been much more). The angel was just about to destroy Jerusalem (imagine that), but the LORD showed mercy.
David was devastated by it all. We read his words:
1 Chronicles 21:17 (NKJV) “And David said to God, ‘Was it not I who commanded the people to be numbered? I am the one who has sinned and done evil indeed; but these sheep, what have they done? Let Your hand, I pray, O LORD my God, be against me and my father’s house, but not against Your people that they should be plagued.’”
David should have thought about that BEFORE he numbered the people. It may sound harsh, but one sinner can affect an entire church or nation (Joshua 7; 1 Corinthians 5:6). Solomon would later write in:
Ecclesiastes 9:18 (NKJV) “Wisdom is better than weapons of war; but one sinner destroys much good.”
The prophet Gad communicates to David God’s command, to build an altar on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. Ornan was willing to grant the property to David, but the king insisted on paying full price. Sometimes we do all that we can to give the least possible to God, but David teaches us on this:
1 Chronicles 21:24 (NKJV) “Then King David said to Ornan, ‘No, but I will surely buy it for the full price, for I will not take what is yours for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings with that which costs me nothing.’”
It’s been said that, “Ministry that costs nothing, accomplishes nothing.” I need to always search my heart, not regarding salvation, for that’s free, and ministry is truly, all about grace. But have I been giving to God the leftovers, or worse, the “hand- me downs?” Or have I been paying the price to give to God obediently, sacrificially, and honorably?
As we examine David’s life, Bible teachers note that his two most significant sins, were covered with so much grace, that they were transformed into two of the most epic blessings to Israel. The first was Solomon, who was born of Bathsheba. The second is the Temple that would be built on this site – this piece of property David bought from Ornan. Wow! Talk about grace! It reminds me of what we read in:
Romans 5:20 (NKJV) “Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more.”
Have you blown it in life? Maybe even big time? Don’t lose heart. Return to the LORD completely. Leave the consequences (and hopefully crowns of grace), up to Him.
1 Chronicles 22:1–23:32
King David was not allowed to build the Temple. At least part of the reason was because he was a man of war; he had shed much blood. David had it deep in his heart and mind to build a “house” for God:
1 Chronicles 22:8 (NKJV) “…but the word of the LORD came to me, saying, ‘You have shed much blood and have made great wars; you shall not build a house for My name, because you have shed much blood on the earth in My sight.”
David would not be the one to build the Temple, but that didn’t stop him from doing everything within his power, to help his son build the Temple. And that’s exactly what happened.
David organized stonecutters, he prepared iron, and bronze, and cedar trees. David didn’t keep the treasures from all the countries he conquered, to himself, he sanctified them to the LORD. Did you notice how much he set aside for the Temple of God?
1 Chronicles 22:14 (NKJV) “Indeed I have taken much trouble to prepare for the house of the LORD one hundred thousand talents of gold and one million talents of silver, and bronze and iron beyond measure, for it is so abundant. I have prepared timber and stone also, and you may add to them.”
That’s 3,750 tons of gold, and 37,500 tons of silver! Together it was over 821 millions pounds! God indeed blessed David, and he in turn blessed the Lord.
I love the motive David had behind the building of the Temple:
1 Chronicles 22:5b (NKJV) “…the house to be built for the LORD must be exceedingly magnificent, famous and glorious throughout all countries.”
David wanted God to be glorified. He wanted the Temple to be excellent and magnificent. His desire was for God to be “famous” – that the whole wide world would know the LORD! I can’t help but think of the Great Commission whenever I hear David’s heart on this, things I should take to heart. Let’s do the absolute best we can, in whatever mission we’ve been given by God – that all nations would know His Name, what He’s done on that cross, and be saved from their sins.
Can you imagine the work behind building the Temple? If any of you are familiar with construction, you know the toil, and labor, and muscle involved. You may not think that any spirituality is really necessary – you might make a dichotomy there. But David commands his son Solomon to seek the Lord in the midst of all this.
1 Chronicles 22:19 (NKJV) “Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God. Therefore arise and build the sanctuary of the LORD God, to bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the holy articles of God into the house that is to be built for the name of the LORD.”
What were the construction commands? Set your heart and soul to seek the LORD your God. That’s the key to life isn’t it? As you read the Word, as you pray, as we live life each and every day, seek God, look for the Lord – He’s there in the midst of it all. As a matter of fact, nowadays (in New Testament times) the temple of the Lord is us as individual Christians, and us as a Church. God graciously lives in His people… so let’s do this with excellence!
In 1 Chronicles 23 we have a list of priests, the descendants of Levi and his three sons. The Levites were helpers to the High Priests (descendants of Aaron – 1 Chronicles 23:28).
I’ve always loved passages like the one we read in:
1 Chronicles 23:30 (NKJV) “to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at evening.”
Morning and evening…make special times with God – and – give Him everything in between. It’s life-changing!
1 Chronicles 24:1–26:11
I apologize for repeating myself, but 1 and 2 Chronicles were most likely written by Ezra, the priest, and are therefore written from a priestly perspective. After the return from exile, Ezra’s intention was to restore spiritual structure in the nation’s worship of God.
In this section we have various lists of the divisions of Priests, Levites (helpers to the priests) Musicians, and Gatekeepers. All these were of the priestly tribe of Israel – Levi.
These particular lists include some of the schedules of service (1 Chronicles 24:3, 19) – schedules that were determined by the Lord through the casting of lots.
1 Chronicles 25:8 (NKJV) “And they cast lots for their duty, the small as well as the great, the teacher with the student.”
King David organized the musicians in his day, and here we’re reading how hundreds of years later, that structure was still in place.
The musicians are a huge part of the priesthood. The enemy hates it when we worship, even he knows it’s vital for victory. This is why it’s emphasized by David, who appoints musicians who are called and skillful. The most important part of writing worship songs is the lyrics, which is why we read of these musicians prophesying with a harp, giving thanks, and praise to the LORD (1 Chronicles 25:3).
Pastor Chuck Smith wrote, “The word ‘prophesied’ in 1 Chronicles 25:2 does not necessarily mean ‘foretelling’ but ‘forth telling’ the works of God. It must have been quite an experience coming to the temple day and night, hearing 4,000 musicians prophesying in worship and praising God’s greatness, glory, power, and beauty.”
The final section of today’s Old Testament reading ends with the Gatekeepers.
According to the Holman Bible Dictionary a Gatekeeper was, “One who guards access to a place, either a city (2 Samuel 18:26; 2 Kings 7:10–11), a residence (John 18:17), the sacred precincts of the ark (1 Chronicles 15:23–24), or the temple (1 Chronicles 23:5). Temple gatekeepers were charged with preventing anyone unclean from entering the temple (2 Chronicles 23:19) and with guarding the temple treasuries and storehouses (1 Chronicles 9:26; 26:20–22; Nehemiah 12:25).”
In the New Testament we’re all part of the priesthood (1 Peter 2:5, 9). Our privilege is to find our place in the body of Christ and serve faithfully. Priests represent God to the people (we share His word and love). Priests also represent the people to God (we pray for them).
1 Chronicles 26:12–27:34
In this section we see how meticulously organized the nation of Israel was systematically arranged under King David’s leadership. Gatekeepers (guards) assigned to every gate and vicinity. They had their version of Brinks, which took care of the protection, and transportation of treasures…these were things deducted to the House of the LORD (1 Chronicles 26:27).
How awesome to see the plethora of gifted people God provided (able and capable) to serve as leaders in the nation.
The military had a rotation of 24,000 who served one month out of the year – and then there were the officers and leaders of every tribe.
1 Chronicles 27:1 (NKJV) “And the children of Israel, according to their number, the heads of fathers’ houses, the captains of thousands and hundreds and their officers, served the king in every matter of the military divisions. These divisions came in and went out month by month throughout all the months of the year, each division having twenty-four thousand.”
There were men specifically assigned to the king’s treasuries, storehouses in the field, the cities, the villages, and in the fortress. There were the foremen in the fields, the vineyards, and olive groves. There were those assigned to the herds in various places, the camels, the donkeys, and flocks.
There were counselors, Joab was the king’s general, Hachmoni was with the king’s sons, and Hushai was the king’s companion (friend). We all need one…even the king.
It’s good to be organized and it’s good to be “specialized.” David is symbolic of Jesus. We all have a “special” place. Where will you serve the Lord in His kingdom? It’s a blessing and a privilege to be a part of it, and just think (as you read all these names) GOD knows you by name and I’ll bet almost anything, there’s a book in heaven chronicling our lives too.
1 Chronicles 28–29
King David is approaching the end of his life. He assembles all the leaders of the nation in order to share with them his heart, which is to build a Temple for the LORD their God. It was something he wanted to do himself, but God did not permit it, due to all the wars he fought. God selected his son Solomon instead, to be king and builder of the Temple.
Although David was not allowed to build the Temple, he did everything he could to make sure it happened after his death. God gave him the plans and provisions, things which he passed along to Solomon. Did you notice how David considered the plans inspired by God? This reminds me of Moses’ plans for the Tabernacle.
1 Chronicles 28:11–12 (NKJV) “Then David gave his son Solomon the plans for the vestibule, its houses, its treasuries, its upper chambers, its inner chambers, and the place of the mercy seat; 12 and the plans for all that he had by the Spirit, of the courts of the house of the LORD, of all the chambers all around, of the treasuries of the house of God, and of the treasuries for the dedicated things.”
The gold the silver, the bronze, the iron, the wood, the precious stones David gave it all to God with all his might! Many people would rather spend their fortunes on themselves or give it all to their descendants, but David gave it to God. He was an example for the nation’s leaders. They saw what he did, and they followed suit through David’s encouragement.
1 Chronicles 29:5b (NKJV) “Who then is willing to consecrate himself this day to the LORD?”
1 Chronicles 29:6 (NKJV) “Then the leaders of the fathers’ houses, leaders of the tribes of Israel, the captains of thousands and of hundreds, with the officers over the king’s work, offered willingly.”
They gave generously to the work of the Lord, and they saw it as a privilege.
I love the way David words it in:
1 Chronicles 29:14 (NKJV) “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from You, and of Your own we have given You.”
David gave God all the glory for the way he was able to give back to God. The LORD had blessed David by entrusting him with an enormous amount of wealth. David had a heart and was in a position to give back to God obediently. Most people would pat themselves on the back in light of such grand donations, but not David. He considered himself unworthy to do such a thing. He saw it for what it was, an undeserving privilege. Let’s keep this in mind, the next time we give.
Throughout this section David encourages the people, along with his son Solomon, to seek the LORD and obey His commandments (1 Chronicles 28:8) if they did, God would be with them in a special way.
1 Chronicles 28:20 (NKJV) “And David said to his son Solomon, ‘Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God—my God—will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.’
It’s as simple as that. The same promise is true for us. We seek the Lord by obeying His Word and investing into His Kingdom the time, treasures, and talents we’ve been given. If we seek God, we’ll find Him (Jeremiah 29:13) and be blessed by Him…all the days of our lives.
David finished the work, he finished his race, and died at a good old age. The throne was successfully passed on to his son Solomon who was the vessel God would use to make his father’s dream come true. Solomon would go on to build the Temple of the LORD.