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1 Chronicles 11

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1 Then all Israel came together to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood. 2 Even in times past, while Saul was king, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And the LORD your God said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’" 3 So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, where David made a covenant with them before the LORD. And they anointed him king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD through Samuel. 4 Then David and all the Israelites marched to Jerusalem (that is, Jebus), where the Jebusites inhabited the land. 5 The people of Jebus said to David, “You will never get in here.” Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion (that is, the City of David). 6 Now David had said, “Whoever is the first to strike down a Jebusite will become chief commander.” And Joab son of Zeruiah went up first, and he became the chief. 7 So David took up residence in the fortress; that is why it was called the City of David. 8 He built up the city around it, from the supporting terraces to the surrounding wall, while Joab restored the rest of the city. 9 And David became greater and greater, for the LORD of Hosts was with him. 10 Now these were the chiefs of David’s mighty men, who, together with all Israel, bolstered and strengthened his kingdom, according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel. 11 This is the list of David’s mighty men: Jashobeam son of Hachmoni was chief of the officers; he wielded his spear against three hundred men, whom he killed at one time. 12 Next in command was Eleazar son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men. 13 He was with David at Pas-dammim when the Philistines gathered there for battle. At the place with a field full of barley, the troops fled from the Philistines. 14 But Eleazar and David stationed themselves in the middle of the field and defended it. They struck down the Philistines, and the LORD brought about a great victory. 15 Three of the thirty chief men went down to David, to the rock at the cave of Adullam, while a company of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim. 16 At that time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was at Bethlehem. 17 David longed for water and said, “Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!" 18 So the Three broke through the Philistine camp, drew water from the well at the gate of Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out to the LORD, 19 saying, “Far be it from me, my God, to do this! How can I drink the blood of these men who risked their lives?” Because they had brought it at the risk of their lives, David refused to drink it. Such were the exploits of the three mighty men. 20 Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he lifted his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. 21 He was doubly honored above the Three, and he became their commander, even though he was not included among the Three. 22 And Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a man of valor from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion. 23 He also killed an Egyptian, a huge man five cubits tall. Although the Egyptian had a spear like a weaver’s beam in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club, snatched the spear from his hand, and killed the Egyptian with his own spear. 24 These were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who won a name alongside the three mighty men. 25 He was most honored among the Thirty, but he did not become one of the Three. And David appointed him over his guard. 26 Now these were the mighty men: Asahel the brother of Joab, Elhanan son of Dodo of Bethlehem, 27 Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite, 28 Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, Abiezer the Anathothite, 29 Sibbecai the Hushathite, Ilai the Ahohite, 30 Maharai the Netophathite, Heled son of Baanah the Netophathite, 31 Ithai son of Ribai from Gibeah of the Benjamites, Benaiah the Pirathonite, 32 Hurai from the brooks of Gaash, Abiel the Arbathite, 33 Azmaveth the Baharumite, Eliahba the Shaalbonite, 34 the sons of Hashem the Gizonite, Jonathan son of Shagee the Hararite, 35 Ahiam son of Sachar the Hararite, Eliphal son of Ur, 36 Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite, 37 Hezro the Carmelite, Naarai son of Ezbai, 38 Joel the brother of Nathan, Mibhar son of Hagri, 39 Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah, 40 Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite, 41 Uriah the Hittite, Zabad son of Ahlai, 42 Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, chief of the Reubenites, and the thirty with him, 43 Hanan son of Maacah, Joshaphat the Mithnite, 44 Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jeiel the sons of Hotham the Aroerite, 45 Jediael son of Shimri and his brother Joha the Tizite, 46 Eliel the Mahavite, Jeribai and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, Ithmah the Moabite, 47 Eliel, Obed, and Jaasiel the Mezobaite.

Study Notes — 1 Chronicles 11

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Chapter Summary

1 Chronicles 11 describes the events surrounding David's coronation as king over all Israel. The chapter begins with the gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron, where they anoint him king over Israel, as the Lord had promised through Samuel. The chapter then recounts the conquest of Jerusalem, which became the capital city of Israel, and the arrival of David's mighty men, who fought alongside him in battle. The chapter highlights the bravery and loyalty of these men, including Jashobeam, Eleazar, and Shammah, who performed great deeds in battle. The chapter concludes with a list of David's mighty men, who were renowned for their bravery and military prowess.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Chronicles, which describes the history of Israel from the death of Saul to the reign of David. The chapter is also part of the broader biblical narrative, which tells the story of God's relationship with His people and His plan to redeem them through Christ. The chapter is closely connected to 2 Samuel 5, which provides a parallel account of David's coronation and the conquest of Jerusalem.

Heart Application

This chapter encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness and to seek unity and cooperation with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It also inspires us to be brave and loyal, like David's mighty men, and to stand firm in the face of adversity. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of obedience to God's will and the need to seek His guidance in all that we do.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of David's coronation as king over all Israel and the conquest of Jerusalem. It highlights the unity and cooperation between David and the Israelites, as well as the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and seeking unity and cooperation with our brothers and sisters in Christ (1 Chronicles 11:1-3).

Voices from the Church

“The establishment of David's kingdom is a type of the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which will never end. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the ultimate triumph of Christ and the glory that awaits Him.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men are an inspiration to all who read their stories. They demonstrate the importance of courage and devotion in the face of adversity and encourage us to stand firm in our faith.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Coronation of David (1 Chronicles 11:1-3) — The chapter begins with the gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron, where they anoint him king over Israel.
  2. The Conquest of Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 11:4-9) — The chapter then recounts the conquest of Jerusalem, which became the capital city of Israel.
  3. The Arrival of David's Mighty Men (1 Chronicles 11:10-47) — The chapter highlights the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men, who fought alongside him in battle and performed great deeds.
  4. The List of David's Mighty Men (1 Chronicles 11:26-47) — The chapter concludes with a list of David's mighty men, who were renowned for their bravery and military prowess.
  5. Conclusion (1 Chronicles 11:47) — The chapter ends with a summary of David's military victories and the establishment of his kingdom.

Core Doctrines

The Doctrine of God's Faithfulness
This chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises, as He gives David victory over his enemies and establishes him as king over all Israel.
The Doctrine of Unity and Cooperation
The chapter highlights the importance of unity and cooperation between believers, as seen in the gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron.
The Doctrine of Bravery and Loyalty
The chapter emphasizes the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men, who fought alongside him in battle and performed great deeds.
The Doctrine of Christ's Kingdom
The establishment of David's kingdom is a type of the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which will never end.

Lessons from 1 Chronicles 11

  1. The Importance of Unity and Cooperation — This chapter teaches us the importance of unity and cooperation between believers, as seen in the gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron.
  2. The Power of Bravery and Loyalty — The chapter emphasizes the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men, who fought alongside him in battle and performed great deeds.
  3. The Faithfulness of God — The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises, as He gives David victory over his enemies and establishes him as king over all Israel.
  4. The Establishment of Christ's Kingdom — The establishment of David's kingdom is a type of the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which will never end.
  5. The Importance of Obedience to God's Will — The chapter teaches us the importance of obedience to God's will, as seen in David's trust in God and his commitment to following God's guidance.

Themes from 1 Chronicles 11

  1. The Kingdom of God — This chapter teaches us about the kingdom of God, as seen in the establishment of David's kingdom and the foreshadowing of Christ's kingdom.
  2. The Importance of Unity and Cooperation — The chapter emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation between believers, as seen in the gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron.
  3. The Power of Bravery and Loyalty — The chapter highlights the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men, who fought alongside him in battle and performed great deeds.
  4. The Faithfulness of God — The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises, as He gives David victory over his enemies and establishes him as king over all Israel.
  5. The Importance of Obedience to God's Will — The chapter teaches us the importance of obedience to God's will, as seen in David's trust in God and his commitment to following God's guidance.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What can we learn from the unity and cooperation between David and the Israelites in this chapter?
  2. How does the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men inspire us to be courageous and devoted in our own lives?
  3. What does this chapter teach us about God's faithfulness to His promises?
  4. How does the establishment of David's kingdom foreshadow the establishment of Christ's kingdom?
  5. What practical applications can we make from this chapter in our own lives?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Coronation of David (1 Chronicles 11:1-3)

11:1 The chapter begins with the gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron, where they anoint him king over Israel.
11:2 The Israelites recognize David as their rightful king and pledge their loyalty to him.

2. The Conquest of Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 11:4-9)

11:4 The chapter then recounts the conquest of Jerusalem, which became the capital city of Israel.
11:5 The Jebusites, who inhabited the city, are defeated by David and his men.

3. The Arrival of David's Mighty Men (1 Chronicles 11:10-47)

11:10 The chapter highlights the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men, who fought alongside him in battle and performed great deeds.
11:11 Jashobeam, Eleazar, and Shammah are among the most notable of David's mighty men, who fought bravely in battle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of David's coronation as king over all Israel?

David's coronation marks the beginning of his reign as king over all Israel, and it is a fulfillment of God's promise to him. As seen in 1 Chronicles 11:1-3, the Israelites gather to David at Hebron and anoint him king, recognizing him as their rightful leader.

Who were David's mighty men, and what were their accomplishments?

David's mighty men were a group of brave and loyal warriors who fought alongside him in battle and performed great deeds. As seen in 1 Chronicles 11:10-47, they were renowned for their bravery and military prowess, and their stories are an inspiration to all who read them.

What is the significance of the conquest of Jerusalem in this chapter?

The conquest of Jerusalem is significant because it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel, and it establishes Jerusalem as the capital city of Israel. As seen in 1 Chronicles 11:4-9, the Jebusites, who inhabited the city, are defeated by David and his men, and the city becomes a symbol of God's presence and power.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 1 Chronicles 11:1 → 2 Samuel 5:1-5 The gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron is also described in 2 Samuel 5:1-5, which provides a parallel account of David's coronation.
2 1 Chronicles 11:4 → Joshua 15:63 The conquest of Jerusalem is also mentioned in Joshua 15:63, which describes the city as being inhabited by the Jebusites.
3 1 Chronicles 11:10 → 2 Samuel 23:8-39 The bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men are also described in 2 Samuel 23:8-39, which provides a more detailed account of their exploits.
4 1 Chronicles 11:1 → Psalm 2:1-12 The establishment of David's kingdom is a type of the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which will never end. As seen in Psalm 2:1-12, the nations will rage against God and His anointed king, but God will ultimately triumph over them.
5 1 Chronicles 11:4 → Isaiah 2:1-5 The conquest of Jerusalem is also prophesied in Isaiah 2:1-5, which describes the city as being exalted above all other cities and nations.
6 1 Chronicles 11:10 → Matthew 1:1-17 The bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men are also seen in the lives of the apostles and other early Christians, who were willing to suffer and die for their faith. As seen in Matthew 1:1-17, Jesus Christ is the ultimate king of Israel, and His kingdom will never end.
7 1 Chronicles 11:1 → Acts 13:22 The establishment of David's kingdom is also mentioned in Acts 13:22, which describes David as a man after God's own heart.
8 1 Chronicles 11:4 → Hebrews 11:32-40 The conquest of Jerusalem is also mentioned in Hebrews 11:32-40, which describes the faith and courage of David and other Old Testament heroes.
9 1 Chronicles 11:10 → Revelation 19:11-21 The bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men are also seen in the final conquest of God's enemies, as described in Revelation 19:11-21.
10 1 Chronicles 11:1 → John 1:1 The establishment of David's kingdom is a type of the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which will never end. As seen in John 1:1, Jesus Christ is the ultimate king of Israel, and His kingdom will never end.

Sermons on 1 Chronicles 11

SermonDescription
Carter Conlon A Final Warning to the Indulgent Church by Carter Conlon This sermon emphasizes the importance of not just agreeing with the truth of God, but embracing it fully, pouring out our lives for His glory and the benefit of others. Drawing fro
Mike Bickle Leadership Lessons From the Wilderness (1 Chr. 11-12) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle discusses leadership lessons from 1 Chronicles 11-12, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the value of others and the need for unity in vision during transitional
T. Austin-Sparks David by T. Austin-Sparks T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes David's spiritual greatness as a key characteristic of effective leadership, illustrating how despite numerous obstacles, including familial rejection a
H.J. Vine The Mighty Men of David by H.J. Vine H.J. Vine preaches about the parallels between David and his mighty men enduring rejection and hardship before his exaltation, and the rejection of Jesus Christ by the world before

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Chronicles 11

This chapter describes the establishment of David's kingdom, which is a type of the establishment of Christ's kingdom. The gathering of all Israel to David at Hebron and the conquest of Jerusalem are significant events that demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises. The bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men are also notable, as they fought alongside him in battle and performed great deeds. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Lord was with David, and he became greater and greater' (1 Chronicles 11:9). This chapter teaches us about the importance of unity and cooperation, the power of bravery and loyalty, and the faithfulness of God. It also points us to Christ, who is the ultimate king of Israel and whose kingdom will never end. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

Unity and Cooperation

The chapter highlights the unity and cooperation between David and the Israelites, who gather to him at Hebron and anoint him king. This unity is a key factor in their military victories and the establishment of David's kingdom.

Bravery and Loyalty

The chapter emphasizes the bravery and loyalty of David's mighty men, who fight alongside him in battle and perform great deeds. Their courage and devotion are an inspiration to all who read their stories.

God's Faithfulness

The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises, as He gives David victory over his enemies and establishes him as king over all Israel. This faithfulness is a testament to God's character and His commitment to His people.

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