Chronicles of David (By Chris Barnes)

Text: 1 Chronicles – Chapters 11-14
OBSERVE: After ten chapters of genealogies and the mention of the fall of Saul, the text quickly shifts to David. In Chapter 11, we immediately read about David becoming the King of Israel and his first act of duty is to conquer Jerusalem. Joab becomes the commander of the army after leading the attack on Jerusalem. We then read about the mighty warriors of David and their exploits which is followed in the text by a description of many esteemed men who join David’s army.

In chapter 13, we read about David calling for the ark to join him in Jerusalem. This decision appears to be a little too spontaneous as Uzzah is killed by touching the ark. This sequence then causes David to be afraid and troubled by God. The ark remains at the house of Obed-Edom for three months, which brings about many blessings to this particular household. However, David’s rule as King is certified as God leads David’s army to victory over the Philistines which brings all the nations to fear David.

INTERPRET: The book of Chronicles commences with ten chapters of genealogies. These genealogies are important to understand as they begin with the genealogy of Adam; which clearly shows the link between Israel and the human race. From there the lists move through the genealogies of the tribes of Israel, in particular the tribe of Judah which occurs at the front of the list. David’s ancestors and royal descendants are prominently featured in its center. History then begins with Saul’s demise and David’s rise. All the genealogies in Chronicles end when David arrives on the historical scene thus showing that all of history to this point has been waiting for David from the tribe of Judah – all history at this point is regarded as a footnote to David.

The importance of David is clear in these chapters as we read about David becoming King and capturing Jerusalem. It is clear that genealogy and geography are key focal points in these chapters. David’s reign has begun and the land where the temple will be built has been obtained. The book is directing our attention to David; and in particular what God will do through him.

APPLICATION: The genealogies help us see that there had been a plan for David, long before David was aware of his calling. God had a purpose for David before he was born. Despite many setbacks and failures, David was able to fulfill his purpose because of God’s mercy, patience and faithfulness.

God has a purpose for all of us. He has called us to serve his Kingdom and will help us to be faithful. God will stand by us as he did with David. God will show us mercy when we seek his forgiveness, he will be patient with us and he will be faithful to his promises. David may have been the earthly king of Israel, but we will all be royalty in God’s eternal Kingdom - if we put our faith and trust in him; just as David did.

REFLECTION: Reflect on the truth that God had a purpose and plan for you long before your birth.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus; I am holding on to your promise that you will keep me strong to the end so that I will be blameless on the day when you bring everything into the light. How I long to hear your “well done” on that day. It’s your Spirit at work inside me that makes me confident that that day will surely come. AMEN.

SONG(S):
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDkmnzNvA_o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcC1Bp13n_4