March 5, 2021 – 1 Chronicles 22-26

David’s love of God led to a desire to build a temple dedicated to the Lord. In chapter 22, we see David repeating the covenant that he had received from the Lord to Solomon. Also, in chapter 22 and in chapters 23-26, David makes preparations for Solomon to build and operate the temple. He does this by acquiring materials for the building and organizing the Levites, servants of the Lord’s house to be priests, musicians, gatekeepers, and treasurers.

At first this may seem like a self-fulfilling prophecy: It was told to David that his descendant would build a temple (1 Chron 22: 9-10), and David then proceeded to do the things necessary to fulfill the prophecy (by giving his descendant instructions, materials, and servants). But this is to misunderstand the nature of biblical prophecy or promises as mere predictions of future events. Rather, biblical prophecy or promises are the sovereign God’s proclamation of what He will certainly do. David did not just say, “In the Lord’s timing the temple will be built” and then do nothing. David understood that God often fulfills His promises through the efforts of His people. We should do the same. One application: Do not just say, “One day every nation will worship the Lord” and then do nothing. But be a witness.

These chapters also serve as validation of the priests and Levites as spiritual leaders and teaches Israel that they need to listen to them and allow them to do their job. Furthermore, these chapters show that worship and obedience should be the central concern for the people of God. We are also people of God if we have repented and trust in Christ for salvation.