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Offerings for the Temple
1Then King David said to the whole assembly, “My son Solomon, the one whom God has chosen, is young and inexperienced. The task is great because this palace is not for man, but for the LORD God. 2Now with all my ability I have made provision for the house of my God—gold for the gold articles, silver for the silver, bronze for the bronze, iron for the iron, and wood for the wood, as well as onyx for the settings, turquoise, stones of various colors, all kinds of precious stones, and slabs of marble—all in abundance.
3Moreover, because of my delight in the house of my God, I now give for it my personal treasures of gold and silver, over and above all that I have provided for this holy temple: 4three thousand talents of golda (the gold of Ophir) and seven thousand talents of refined silver,b to overlay the walls of the buildings, 5for the gold work and the silver work, and for all the work to be done by the craftsmen. Now who will volunteer to consecrate himself to the LORD today?”
6Then the leaders of the households, the officers of the tribes of Israel, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and the officials in charge of the king’s work gave willingly. 7Toward the service of God’s house they gave 5,000 talentsc and 10,000 darics of gold,d 10,000 talents of silver,e 18,000 talents of bronze,f and 100,000 talents of iron.g 8Whoever had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the house of the LORD, under the care of Jehielh the Gershonite. 9And the people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given to the LORD freely and wholeheartedly. And King David also rejoiced greatly.
David’s Prayer of Blessing
10Then David blessed the LORD in the sight of all the assembly and said:
“May You be blessed, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.
11Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the splendor and the majesty, for everything in heaven and on earth belongs to You.
Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom, and You are exalted as head over all. 12Both riches and honor come from You, and You are the ruler over all. In Your hands are power and might to exalt and give strength to all.
13Now therefore, our God, we give You thanks, and we praise Your glorious name. 14But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? For everything comes from You, and from Your own hand we have given to You. 15For we are foreigners and strangers in Your presence, as were all our forefathers. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope.
16O LORD our God, from Your hand comes all this abundance that we have provided to build You a house for Your holy Name, and all of it belongs to You. 17I know, my God, that You test the heart and delight in uprightness. All these things I have given willingly and with an upright heart, and now I have seen Your people who are present here giving joyfully and willingly to You.
18O LORD, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, keep this desire forever in the intentions of the hearts of Your people, and direct their hearts toward You. 19And give my son Solomon a whole heart to keep and carry out all Your commandments, decrees, and statutes, and to build Your palace for which I have made provision.”
20Then David said to the whole assembly, “Blessed be the LORD your God.”
So the whole assembly blessed the LORD, the God of their fathers. They bowed down and paid homage to the LORD and to the king.
Solomon Anointed King
21The next day they offered sacrifices and presented burnt offerings to the LORD: a thousand bulls, a thousand rams, and a thousand lambs, along with their drink offerings, and other sacrifices in abundance for all Israel. 22That day they ate and drank with great joy in the presence of the LORD.
Then, for a second time, they designated David’s son Solomon as king, anointing him before the LORD as ruler, and Zadok as the priest.
23So Solomon sat on the throne of the LORD as king in place of his father David. He prospered, and all Israel obeyed him. 24All the officials and mighty men, as well as all of King David’s sons, pledged their allegiance to King Solomon.
25The LORD highly exalted Solomon in the sight of all Israel and bestowed on him royal majesty such as had not been bestowed on any king in Israel before him.
David’s Reign and Death
26David son of Jesse was king over all Israel. 27The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem. 28He died at a ripe old age, full of years, riches, and honor, and his son Solomon reigned in his place.
29Now the acts of King David, from first to last, are indeed written in the Chronicles of Samuel the Seer, the Chronicles of Nathan the Prophet, and the Chronicles of Gad the Seer, 30together with all the details of his reign, his might, and the circumstances that came upon him and Israel and all the kingdoms of the lands.
Footnotes:
4 a3,000 talents is approximately 113 tons or 103 metric tons of gold.
4 b7,000 talents is approximately 264 tons or 239.5 metric tons of silver.
7 c5,000 talents is approximately 188.5 tons or 171 metric tons of gold.
7 dOr 10,000 gold drachmas; that is, approximately 185.2 pounds or 84 kilograms of gold coins
7 e10,000 talents is approximately 377 tons or 342 metric tons of silver.
7 f18,000 talents is approximately 678.6 tons or 615.6 metric tons of bronze.
7 g100,000 talents is approximately 3,770 tons or 3,420 metric tons of iron.
8 hJehiel is a variant of Jehieli; see 1 Chronicles 26:21.
The Greatness of God
By A.W. Tozer4.7K39:14God's Character1CH 29:11JOB 26:14ISA 6:31TI 6:15REV 4:11REV 19:6In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a mother who takes her young child to the beach to escape the monotony of housework. As the mother reads, she occasionally looks up to check on her child who is happily playing with sand. However, when the mother gets engrossed in her reading, she looks up to find that her child has disappeared. The speaker uses this story to emphasize the importance of paying attention to God and not getting distracted by worldly things. He encourages the audience to focus on God's glory and the coming of Jesus Christ.
(God's Sanctuary) 04 Men of His Own Heart 3
By Bakht Singh3.9K52:20Sanctuary1CH 28:11CH 28:211CH 29:19PSA 32:8PRO 3:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of learning how to find God's will. They highlight that there are similar conditions for people to learn these lessons. The speaker repeats this point multiple times throughout the sermon, emphasizing its significance. They also mention that only by understanding these conditions can individuals be brought into God's personal family plan. The sermon repeatedly emphasizes the need to learn these lessons and find God's will.
When You Call Down Heaven
By Shane Idleman3.5K58:101CH 29:11MAT 6:6EPH 6:181TH 5:17JAS 5:16
This sermon emphasizes the importance of prayer as a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare. It highlights the need for a deeper walk with Christ through motives, positioning oneself to receive from God, and understanding the significance of prayer in calling down heaven. The message stresses the necessity of prioritizing prayer, seeking God's will, forgiveness, and deliverance from evil, while acknowledging God's sovereignty over all things.
Spirit Filled, Word Centered Praying
By Bill McLeod3.3K48:57Prayer In The Spirit1CH 29:11MAT 6:9In this sermon transcript, the speaker shares his experience of speaking at a conference where he felt the presence of God. The church was packed with 12-1400 people, and the speaker gave an invitation for salvation and revival. The speaker also mentions a conference held by six Baptist groups that aimed to bring more people to Jesus, but they were disappointed with the low numbers. They decided to have a revival conference the following year and prayed for a speaker. Two weeks before the conference, the speaker was sent to Argentina and spoke at various places, including a Southern Baptist seminary. The speaker emphasizes the importance of waiting on the Lord and being silent before Him, as God wants to speak and show us how to pray. The speaker also mentions being awakened at night to pray and references Amy Carmichael, a famous missionary to India.
David - the Father
By Devern Fromke2.1K56:56David1CH 28:201CH 29:11CH 29:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the discovery of a stone with a mark on it, which suddenly takes on new meaning and significance. The speaker then mentions a brilliant lawyer who gives a masterful explanation of Mormonism, discussing the concept of God closing the reservoir of spirit in human flesh for testing and perfection. The speaker questions the difference between Jesus and other humans, and introduces the concept of the ultimate touchstone, which determines and governs everything else. The speaker then focuses on David's role as a father and his conversation with his son Solomon, suggesting that this interaction reveals the real unifying factor in God's economy.
Principles of Giving
By William MacDonald1.9K43:22Giving1CH 29:14ACT 17:242CO 8:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being led by the Lord to give the right amount at the right time. He shares a story of a man in San Luis Obispo who was prompted by the Spirit of God to give money to a young brother in Iowa. The preacher highlights the significance of giving out of love for Jesus and not for the praise of men, referencing Matthew 6:2-4. He also discusses the test of life mentioned in 1 John, stating that if someone has worldly possessions and sees a brother in need but does not help, it questions the presence of God's love in their heart. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that giving to the Lord's work is equivalent to giving to Jesus himself, referencing Matthew 25:40.
Recovery - Part 2 of 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K54:18Recovery1CH 29:28EZR 7:6EZR 7:9PSA 127:1MAT 7:13JHN 6:60REV 21:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being committed to God's purpose. He highlights the need for a specific and personal vision of God's plan in the present time. The speaker references the story of Nehemiah and how his heart committal to God's purpose brought God into evidence and led to the fulfillment of His plan. The sermon also emphasizes the sovereignty of God and how He takes the initiative to see His purpose through, even in the face of opposition.
Integrity of Heart
By Erlo Stegen1.6K1:18:18IntegrityGEN 16:81CH 29:151CH 29:17HEB 4:121PE 2:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of David and how he tried to cover up his sins until God exposed him. The preacher then shares a story about a little girl who had a powerful encounter with God when she saw a great eye looking at her. This eye revealed all her sins, including stealing, and she was deeply convicted. The preacher also talks about a man who had a life-changing encounter with God and how he shared his testimony with others. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing our sins, seeking God's forgiveness, and sharing our testimonies with others.
The Kingdom of God
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:12:25Kingdom Of God1CH 29:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that all people are born into the kingdom of darkness, separated from God and without hope. However, God did not give up on humanity and began to restore what was lost. The preacher then focuses on the importance of understanding the kingdom of God, which is often neglected and misunderstood. The kingdom of God is described as being different from the worldly kingdom, focusing on righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, rather than material things like eating and drinking. The sermon concludes by highlighting God's unchanging purpose and his plan to create man as part of his kingdom.
Our Awesome God - Part 4
By Chuck Smith1.3K09:171CH 29:9ROM 11:36EPH 1:11COL 1:12REV 4:8
This sermon emphasizes the act of worshiping God with a perfect heart, just as David and the people willingly offered their resources for the building of the temple. It reflects on how all things belong to God, and we are called to offer back to Him what is already His. The message highlights the greatness, power, and preeminence of God, acknowledging that all things are created by Him, through Him, and for Him.
David - Which Shall Fufill All My Will
By Stephen Kaung9921:12:06EXO 33:152SA 7:111CH 22:141CH 29:2MAT 6:33ACT 13:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of God's presence in our lives. Without His presence, everything else is meaningless. The preacher reminds us that Jesus promised to be with us until the end of the age and sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within believers. He encourages us to have a deep desire for God's presence, not just individually, but also in the church. The preacher urges us to prioritize God's house and to prepare spiritual materials for it, such as the nature of God, the redemption of Christ, and the work of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the need for repentance and a right relationship with God in order to experience His presence.
Belfast Easter Conference 1964
By Tom Bentley93231:121CH 29:5PSA 37:5MAT 6:33JHN 3:7JHN 10:16ROM 12:1In this sermon, the speaker recounts a challenge he received from a young Chinese student who questioned the reality of the living God. The student pointed out that believers in a dead God would not be able to walk across fire, as some devotees of a particular God did in their religious ceremony. The speaker reflects on how to respond to this challenge and convey the truth of the living God and the gospel. He also expresses gratitude for the success of their gospel meetings and the conversions they have witnessed. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the Lord's work in Bolivia and the importance of consecrating oneself to the service of the Lord.
Preparation in Building
By Stephen Kaung9291:19:51EXO 25:11CH 29:2MAT 6:33MAT 16:18ROM 12:1ROM 12:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the process of building and presenting vessels for God's purpose. The sermon begins by emphasizing that God had a purpose in mind even before the creation of the world, and that purpose was to satisfy the heart of His beloved Son, Jesus. The speaker then highlights the importance of offering ourselves and everything we have to God for the building of His church, but also acknowledges how the enemy often tempts us to waste what God has given us. The sermon concludes with a call to be transformed by renewing our minds and to recognize that we are all members of one body in Christ.
The Walk of Faith - Part 1
By Larry Ainsworth80653:37GEN 5:24DEU 5:72KI 4:81CH 29:11MAT 6:33LUK 8:43In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging the absence of some attendees from the morning session and provides a brief recap of the previous study on the words of Jesus, "follow me." The speaker then introduces the topic of six character studies from the Bible, three men and three women, to explore during the sermon series. The sermon emphasizes the importance of contentment and obedience in the face of trials and challenges, using the example of Gehazi's discontentment leading to negative consequences. The speaker also highlights the significance of keeping God's commandments and the temptation to compromise in the playroom of our minds.
Choose Fire
By G.W. North6031:25:02Holy Spirit1CH 29:232CH 1:1MAT 3:11LUK 12:49ACT 2:3HEB 12:29In this sermon, the preacher continues the theme of fire from the previous night. He emphasizes that Jesus Christ came to send fire, which represents holiness in every aspect of our lives. The preacher refers to the book of Zechariah, where it is stated that the purpose of the fire is to bring holiness to all areas of our lives. Moving on to the second book of Chronicles, the preacher focuses on Solomon, who became king and was greatly blessed by God. The sermon highlights the importance of seeking God's presence and allowing Him to magnify us in our lives.
What Is a Christian 17 Christian Is a Temple
By James K. Boswell41249:19EXO 4:2EXO 24:21CH 29:21CH 29:5MAT 6:33ROM 1:14In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the theme of preparation and dedication to the Lord. He references 1 Chronicles 29:2, where King David expresses his commitment to preparing with all his might and setting his affection on the Lord. The speaker emphasizes that when we prepare wholeheartedly and center our affection on God, we can expect to receive blessings and provisions from Him. He then connects this idea to Exodus 4:2, where God asks Moses what is in his hand, highlighting the importance of using our hands and other body parts to serve the Lord. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of fellowship and love among believers, as Jesus commanded us to love one another as a sign of discipleship.
Reason for Leaving Gig Harbor
By David Ravenhill3455:23Christian LifeTransition and ChangeDivine Guidance1CH 29:11CH 29:91CH 29:14PSA 37:5PRO 3:5ECC 3:1ISA 43:19MAT 6:212CO 8:5PHP 4:19David Ravenhill shares his personal journey of faith and the divine guidance he has received throughout his life, culminating in his decision to leave his pastoral role in Gig Harbor for a traveling ministry. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's timing and preparation in our lives, drawing parallels to biblical figures who also experienced transitions. Ravenhill encourages the congregation to trust in God's plan and to remain open to the new season ahead, reminding them that God is in control and will lead them as He has led him. He calls for a fresh commitment to God and a willingness to give generously as they navigate this change together.
Money - Cirrhosis of the Giver
By Shane Idleman2057:24StewardshipGenerosityDEU 28:121CH 29:14PRO 11:25MAL 3:10MAT 6:2LUK 6:382CO 9:7Shane Idleman addresses the critical topic of money in his sermon 'Money - Cirrhosis of the Giver,' emphasizing the importance of stewardship and the dangers of allowing money to become a master rather than a servant. He draws parallels between cirrhosis of the liver and the spiritual condition of a stingy giver, advocating for a heart of generosity that reflects God's blessings. Idleman warns against the prosperity gospel, reminding believers that true wealth is not merely financial but found in a relationship with God and the blessings of a well-stewarded life. He encourages the congregation to give cheerfully and to prioritize their giving as a reflection of their faith and trust in God. Ultimately, he calls for a heart transformation that recognizes everything belongs to God and that we are merely stewards of His resources.
A Man After God's Own Heart
By John Johnson01SA 16:71SA 17:451CH 29:28PRO 4:23HEB 12:1John Johnson preaches about the life of David, a man after God's own heart, focusing on his choosing, anointing, and his victory over evil. He emphasizes the importance of responding to God's grace from the heart, rather than just outward appearances, and the need for obedience to God's call. Through David's example of facing Goliath, he encourages believers to stand firm in God's power and overcome evil in the world, highlighting the significance of finishing strong in faith and giving praise and glory to God.
Rev. 12:6. Strangership and Pilgrimage
By Horatius Bonar0Faith and PerseveranceStrangers And PilgrimsGEN 12:1EXO 16:11CH 29:15PSA 39:12MIC 2:10ACT 14:22HEB 11:10HEB 11:161PE 2:11REV 12:6Horatius Bonar emphasizes the Christian's identity as a stranger and pilgrim in this world, drawing parallels between the journey of the Church and the experiences of biblical figures like Abraham and Paul. He warns against the dangers of becoming too comfortable in worldly pursuits, which can lead to spiritual complacency and a loss of focus on the heavenly calling. Bonar illustrates that while earthly comforts may provide temporary relief, they can distract believers from their true purpose and destination. He encourages Christians to embrace their journey through life with faith, patience, and a readiness to endure hardships, always looking forward to the eternal city of God. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a life of holiness and separation from worldly influences, urging believers to follow the footsteps of the faithful who have gone before them.
Thine Is the Kingdom the Power and the Glory Forever
By Zac Poonen0Giving Glory to GodGod's AuthorityPower Of God1CH 29:11PSA 62:11PSA 112:7MAT 4:10MAT 6:13LUK 17:17ROM 11:36PHP 4:6COL 3:171PE 4:11Zac Poonen emphasizes the significance of the phrase 'Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever' from the Lord's Prayer, explaining that it reflects God's ultimate authority, power, and the glory He deserves. He urges believers to submit to God's government in all aspects of life, including speech, finances, and time management, highlighting that true joy and peace come from accepting His authority. Poonen also stresses the importance of recognizing God's power to overcome fear and sinful habits, and the necessity of giving thanks and glory to God for all achievements, as everything we have is a result of His grace.
Commentary Notes - I Chronicles
By Walter Beuttler0EXO 4:12DEU 21:51SA 13:141SA 16:131CH 17:271CH 28:91CH 29:12Walter Beuttler preaches on the Books of the Chronicles, emphasizing their division, retrospective nature post-Babylonian captivity, and focus on Judah's history from a heavenly perspective. The Chronicles aim to encourage the Babylonian returnees to rebuild God's house, affirm divine selection, and highlight the importance of recognizing God's presence for national restoration. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles reveal God's exclusion and inclusion principles, showcasing His relentless pursuit of His ultimate goal through individuals like David.
The Christian Service
By Mary Wilder Tileston01CH 29:5PSA 51:10PRO 3:6ISA 1:19MAT 16:24ROM 12:1JAS 4:71PE 5:61JN 1:9Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of consecrating our service to the Lord daily, echoing the call from 1 Chronicles 29:5. She highlights the significance of obeying God's will humbly and gladly, as seen in the example of Isaiah. Tileston stresses the need to restore a weakened will by faithfully obeying even the smallest acts of obedience, leading to gradual growth in conformity to God's will. She encourages the congregation to break off evil, uproot sin, and deny self-indulgence as offerings to God, with the promise of receiving faith, life, and love from the eternal Source of love.
Epistle 405
By George Fox0Diligence in FaithEvangelism1CH 29:15JER 9:3MAT 5:15MAT 25:3LUK 19:201CO 7:291CO 7:311TI 2:41TI 6:9HEB 13:17George Fox encourages his friends to actively engage in spreading the truth of the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of not hiding their gifts and talents. He urges them to be diligent in their service to God and to be mindful of their time on earth, reminding them that they are sojourners and should live in the fear of God. Fox warns against the distractions of worldly desires and calls for unity among Friends in ministry to effectively share the truth with others. He expresses a desire for them to be valiant in their efforts and to give a joyful account to God at the end of their lives.
The Children of Israel and the Children
By F.B. Meyer0StewardshipGenerosity1CH 29:14NEH 10:39PRO 11:24MAL 3:10MAT 6:21LUK 6:38ACT 20:352CO 8:122CO 9:7PHP 4:19F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of giving and separation to God, drawing parallels between the children of Israel and modern believers. He highlights that true commitment to God involves setting aside a significant portion of one's income for His service, reflecting on the Jewish practice of giving a third of their income. Meyer challenges the congregation to evaluate their generosity and commitment, urging them to give more than just leftovers to God. He reminds them that genuine giving leads to blessings and that withholding can lead to poverty. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of stewardship and the joy of contributing to God's work.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Matthew Henry
- John Gill
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Tyndale
Introduction
David enumerates the gifts which he designed for the building of the temple; and exhorts the princes and people to make their offerings, Ch1 29:1-5. They offer willingly, and to a great amount, Ch1 29:6-9. David's thanksgiving and prayer to God on the occasion, Ch1 29:10-19. The princes and people praise God, offer sacrifices and feasts before him, make Solomon King, and do him homage, Ch1 29:20-24. The Lord magnifies Solomon, Ch1 29:25. Concluding account of David's reign, character, and death, Ch1 29:26-30.
Verse 1
The palace is not for man - "The palace is not prepared for the name of a son of man, but for the name of the Word of the Lord God." - T.
Verse 2
And marble stones - אבני שיש abney shayish, which the Vulgate translates marmor Parium, Parian marble. Paros was one of the Cyclade islands, and produced the whitest and finest marble, that of which most of the finest works of antiquity have been made. That the word shaish means marble is probable from the Chaldee, which has אבני מרמורייה abney marmoraiyah, marble stones. Josephus says that the temple was built of large blocks of white marble, beautifully polished, so as to produce a most splendid appearance. - Jos., De Bell. Jud., lib. v., c. 5, s. 2.
Verse 5
To consecrate his service - למלאות ידו lemalloth yado, to fill his hand; to bring an offering to the Lord.
Verse 7
Of gold five thousand talents - These, at five thousand and seventy-five pounds, fifteen shillings, and seven pence halfpenny each, amount to twenty-five millions, three hundred and seventy-eight thousand nine hundred and six pounds, five shillings, sterling. If, with Dr. Prideaux, we estimate the golden talent at upwards of seven thousand pounds sterling, the value of these five thousand talents will be much more considerable. See the notes on Exo 25:39; Mat 18:24; and the calculations at the end of the notes on Ch2 9:29. Ten thousand drams - Probably golden darics, worth each about twenty shillings, amounting to ten thousand pounds. Of silver ten thousand talents - These, at three hundred and fifty-three pounds, eleven shillings, and ten-pence halfpenny, each, amount to three millions five hundred and thirty-five thousand, nine hundred and thirty-seven pounds, ten shillings, sterling. Brass eighteen thousand talents - Each six hundred and fifty-seven thousand grains, amount to one thousand and twenty-six tons, eleven hundred weight, and one quarter. One hundred thousand talents of iron - Each six hundred and fifty-seven thousand grains, amount to five thousand seven hundred and three tons, two hundred weight, and a half.
Verse 11
Thine, O Lord, is the greatness - This verse is thus paraphrased by the Targum: "Thine, O Lord, is the magnificence; for thou hast created the world by thy great power, and by thy might hast led our fathers out of Egypt, and with great signs hast caused them to pass through the Red Sea. Thou hast appeared gloriously on Mount Sinai, with troops of angels, in giving law to thy people. Thou hast gained the victory over Amalek; over Sihon and Og, kings of Canaan. By the splendor of thy majesty thou hast caused the sun to stand still on Gibeon, and the moon in the valley of Ajalon, until thy people, the house of Israel, were avenged of their enemies. All things that are in heaven and earth are the work of thy hands, and thou rulest over and sustainest whatsoever is in the heavens and in the earth. Thine, O Lord, is the kingdom in the firmament; and thou art exalted above the heavenly angels, and over all who are constituted rulers upon earth.
Verse 14
Of thine own have we given thee - "For from thy presence all good comes, and of the blessings of thy hands have we given thee." - Targum.
Verse 15
For we are strangers - We have here neither right nor property. And sojourners - Lodging as it were for a night, in the mansion of another. As were all our fathers - These were, as we are supported by thy bounty, and tenants at will to thee. Our days on the earth are as a shadow - They are continually declining, fading, and passing away. This is the place of our sojourning, and here we have no substantial, permanent residence. There is none abiding - However we may wish to settle and remain in this state of things, it is impossible, because every earthly form is passing swiftly away, all is in a state of revolution and decay, and there is no abiding, מקוה mikveh, no expectation, that we shall be exempt from those changes and chances to which our fathers were subjected. "As the shadow of a bird flying in the air [אויר avir] of heaven, such are our days upon the earth; nor is there any hope to any son of man that he shall live for ever." - Targum.
Verse 18
Keep this for ever - All the good dispositions which myself and my people have, came from thee; continue to support and strengthen them by the same grace by which they have been inspired!
Verse 19
Give unto Solomon - a perfect heart - This he did, but Solomon abused his mercies.
Verse 20
Worshipped the Lord, and the king - They did reverence to God as the supreme Ruler, and to the king as his deputy.
Verse 21
With their drink-offerings - The Targum says a thousand drink-offerings, making these libations equal in number to the other offerings. And sacrifices - These were peace-offerings, offered for the people, and on the flesh of which they feasted.
Verse 22
They made Solomon - king the second time - The first time of his being anointed and proclaimed king was when his brother Adonijah affected the throne; and Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah anointed and proclaimed him in a hurry, and without pomp. See Kg1 1:39. Now that all is quiet, and David his father dead, (for he was probably so at the time of the second anointing), they anointed and proclaimed him afresh, with due ceremonies, sacrifices, etc. To be the chief governor - To be the vicegerent or deputy of Jehovah; for God never gave up his right of king in Israel; those called kings were only his lieutenants: hence it is said, Ch1 29:23, "that Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord as king instead of David his father."
Verse 24
Submitted themselves - נתנו יד תחת שלמה nathenu yad tachath Shelomoh. "They gave the hand under Solomon;" they swore fealty to him. We have already seen that putting the hand under the thigh (super sectionem circumcisionis) was the form of taking an oath. See the note on Gen 24:9.
Verse 28
And he died - David, at his death, had every thing that his heart could wish. 1. A good old age, having lived as long as living could be desirable, and having in the main enjoyed good health. 2. Full of days; having lived till he saw every thing that he lived for either accomplished or in a state of forwardness. 3. Full of riches; witness the immense sums left for the temple. 4. Full of honorer; having gained more renown than any crowned head ever did, either before his time or since - laurels that are fresh to the present hour.
Verse 29
The acts of David - first and last - Those which concerned him in private life, as well as those which grew out of his regal government. All these were written by three eminent men, personally acquainted with him through the principal part of his life; these were Samuel and Gad the seers, and Nathan the prophet. These writings are all lost, except the particulars interspersed in the books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles, none of which are the records mentioned here.
Verse 30
The times that went over him - The transactions of his reign, and the occurrences and vicissitudes in his own kingdom, as well as those which were over all the kingdoms of the countries, i.e., in the surrounding nations, in most of which David had a share during his forty years' reign. Relative to the character of David, see a few remarks in the note on Kg1 2:10 (note); and see more at the end of the Psalms. Dr. Delaney gives a just view of his character in a few words: "To sum up all, David was a true believer, a zealous adorer of God, teacher of his law and worship, and inspirer of his praise. A glorious example, a perpetual and inexhaustible fountain of true piety. A consummate and unequalled hero; a skillful and fortunate captain; a steady patriot; a wise ruler; a faithful, generous, and magnanimous friend; and, what is yet rarer, a no less generous and magnanimous enemy. A true penitent, a divine musician, a sublime poet, and an inspired prophet. By birth, a peasant; by merit, a prince; in youth, a hero; in manhood, a monarch; and in age, a saint." The matter of Uriah and Bath-sheba is his great but only blot! There he sinned deeply; and no man ever suffered more in his body, soul, and domestic affairs, than he did in consequence. His penitence was as deep and as extraordinary as his crime; and nothing could surpass both but that eternal mercy that took away the guilt, assuaged the sorrow, and restored this most humbled transgressor to character, holiness, and happiness. Let the God of David be exalted for ever!
Introduction
DAVID CAUSES THE PRINCES AND PEOPLE TO OFFER FOR THE HOUSE OF GOD. (Ch1 29:1-9) Solomon . . . is yet young and tender--Though Solomon was very young when he was raised to the sovereign power, his kingdom escaped the woe pronounced (Ecc 10:16). Mere childhood in a prince is not always a misfortune to a nation, as there are instances of the government being wisely administered during a minority. Solomon himself is a most illustrious proof that a young prince may prove a great blessing; for when he was but a mere child, with respect to his age, no nation was happier. His father, however, made this address before Solomon was endowed with the divine gift of wisdom, and David's reference to his son's extreme youth, in connection with the great national undertaking he had been divinely appointed to execute, was to apologize to this assembly of the estates--or, rather, to assign the reason of his elaborate preparations for the work.
Verse 3
Moreover . . . I have of mine own proper good, &c.--In addition to the immense amount of gold and silver treasure which David had already bequeathed for various uses in the service of the temple, he now made an additional contribution destined to a specific purpose--that of overlaying the walls of the house. This voluntary gift was from the private fortune of the royal donor, and had been selected with the greatest care. The gold was "the gold of Ophir," then esteemed the purest and finest in the world (Job 22:24; Job 28:16; Isa 13:12). The amount was three thousand talents of gold and seven thousand talents of refined silver.
Verse 5
who then is willing to consecrate his service--Hebrew, "fill his hand"; that is, make an offering (Exo 32:29; Lev 8:33; Kg1 13:33). The meaning is, that whoever would contribute voluntarily, as he had done, would be offering a freewill offering to the Lord. It was a sacrifice which every one of them could make, and in presenting which the offerer himself would be the priest. David, in asking freewill offerings for the temple, imitated the conduct of Moses in reference to the tabernacle (Exo 25:1-8).
Verse 6
Then the chief of the fathers--or heads of the fathers (Ch1 24:31; Ch1 27:1). princes of the tribes-- (Ch1 27:16-22). rulers of the king's work--those who had charge of the royal demesnes and other possessions (Ch1 27:25-31). offered willingly--Influenced by the persuasive address and example of the king, they acted according to their several abilities, and their united contributions amounted to the gross sum--of gold 5,000 talents and 10,000 drams; and of silver, 10,000 talents, besides brass and iron.
Verse 7
drams--rather, darics, a Persian coin, with which the Jews from the time of the captivity became familiar, and which was afterwards extensively circulated in the countries of Western Asia. It is estimated as equal in value to 25s. of British currency. of brass eighteen thousand talents, and one hundred thousand talents of iron--In Scripture, iron is always referred to as an article of comparatively low value, and of greater abundance and cheaper than bronze [NAPIER].
Verse 8
and they with whom precious stones were found--rather, "whatever was found along with it of precious stones they gave" [BERTHEAU]. These gifts were deposited in the hands of Jehiel, whose family was charged with the treasures of the house of the Lord (Ch1 26:21).
Verse 10
HIS THANKSGIVING. (1Ch. 29:10-25) Wherefore David blessed the Lord--This beautiful thanksgiving prayer was the effusion overflowing with gratitude and delight at seeing the warm and widespread interest that was now taken in forwarding the favorite project of his life. Its piety is displayed in the fervor of devotional feeling--in the ascription of all worldly wealth and greatness to God as the giver, in tracing the general readiness in contributing to the influence of His grace, in praying for the continuance of this happy disposition among the people, and in solemnly and earnestly commending the young king and his kingdom to the care and blessing of God.
Verse 16
all this store that we have prepared--It may be useful to exhibit a tabular view of the treasure laid up and contributions stated by the historian as already made towards the erection of the proposed temple. Omitting the brass and iron, and precious stones, which, though specified partly (Ch1 29:7), are represented in other portions as "without weight" (Ch1 22:3, Ch1 22:14), we shall give in this table only the amount of gold and silver; and taking the talent of gold as worth £5475 (the talent being 125 pounds in weight), the value of the gold will be about 73s. per ounce. The talent of silver is given at £342 3s. 9d., or 4s. 41/2d. per ounce. The total amount of the contributions will be: Sum accumulated, and in public treasury (Ch1 22:14): Gold £547,500,000 Silver 342,187,500 Contributed by David from his private resources [Ch1 29:4]: Gold 16,425,000 Silver 2,395,312 Contributed by the assembled rulers [Ch1 29:7]: Gold 28,000,000 Silver 3,421,875 A grand total of approximately £939,929,687 Though it has been the common practice of Eastern monarchs to hoard vast sums for the accomplishment of any contemplated project, this amount so far exceeds not only every Oriental collection on record, but even the bounds of probability, that it is very generally allowed that either there is a corruption of the text in Ch1 22:14, or that the reckoning of the historian was by the Babylonian, which was only a half, or the Syrian, which was only a fifth part, of the Hebrew talent. This would bring the Scripture account more into accordance with the statements of JOSEPHUS, as well as within the range of credibility.
Verse 20
all the congregation . . . worshipped the Lord, and the king--Though the external attitude might be the same, the sentiments of which it was expressive were very different in the two cases--of divine worship in the one, of civil homage in the other.
Verse 21
they sacrificed . . . And did eat and drink--After the business of the assembly was over, the people, under the exciting influence of the occasion, still remained, and next day engaged in the performance of solemn rites, and afterwards feasted on the remainder of the sacrifices.
Verse 22
before the Lord--either in the immediate vicinity of the ark, or, perhaps, rather in a religious and devout spirit, as partaking of a sacrificial meal. made Solomon . . . king the second time--in reference to the first time, which was done precipitately on Adonijah's conspiracy (Kg1 1:35). they . . . anointed . . . Zadok--The statement implies that his appointment met the popular approval. His elevation as sole high priest was on the disgrace of Abiathar, one of Adonijah's accomplices.
Verse 23
Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord--As king of Israel, he was the Lord's vicegerent.
Verse 24
submitted themselves--Hebrew, "put their hands under Solomon," according to the custom still practised in the East of putting a hand under the king's extended hand and kissing the back of it (Kg2 10:15).
Verse 26
HIS REIGN AND DEATH. (Ch1 29:26-30) Thus David . . . reigned--(See Kg1 2:11). Next: 2 Chronicles Introduction
Introduction
David has said what he had to say to Solomon. But he had something more to say to the congregation before he parted with them. I. He pressed them to contribute, according to their ability, towards the building and furnishing of the temple (Ch1 29:1-5). II. They made their presents accordingly with great generosity (Ch1 29:6-9). III. David offered up solemn prayers and praises to God upon that occasion (Ch1 29:10-20), with sacrifices (Ch1 29:21, Ch1 29:22). IV. Solomon was hereupon enthroned, with great joy and magnificence (Ch1 29:23-25). V. David, soon after this finished his course (Ch1 29:26-30). And it is hard to say which shines brighter here, the setting sun or the rising sun.
Verse 1
We may here observe, I. How handsomely David spoke to the great men of Israel, to engage them to contribute towards the building of the temple. It is our duty to provoke one another to love and to good works, not only to do good ourselves, but to draw in others to do good too as much as we can. There were many very rich men in Israel; they were all to share in the benefit of the temple, and of those peaceable days which were to befriend the building of it; and therefore, though David would not impose on them, as a tax, what they should give towards it, he would recommend the present as a fair occasion for a free-will offering, because what is done in works of piety and charity should be done willingly and not by constraint; for God loves a cheerful giver. 1. He would have them consider that Solomon was young and tender, and needed help; but that he was the person whom God had chosen to do this work, and therefore was well worthy their assistance. It is good service to encourage those in the work of God that are as yet young and tender. 2. That the world was great, and all hands should contribute to the carrying of it on. The palace to be built was not for man, but for the Lord God; and the more was contributed towards the building the more magnificent it would be, and therefore the better would it answer the intention. 3. He tells them what great preparations had been made for this work. He did not intend to throw all the burden upon them, nor that it should be built wholly by contributions, but that they should show their good will, by adding to what was done (Ch1 29:2): I have prepared with all my might, that is, "I have made it my business." Work for God must be done with all our might, or we shall bring nothing to pass in it. 4. He sets them a good example. Besides what was dedicated to this service out of the spoils and presents of the neighbouring nations, which was for the building of the house (of which before, Ch1 22:14), he had, out of his own share, offered largely for the beautifying and enriching of it, 3000 talents of gold and 7000 talents of silver (Ch1 29:4, Ch1 29:5), and this because he had set his affection on the house of his God. He gave all this, not as Papists build churches, in commutation of penance, or to make atonement for sin, nor as Pharisees give alms, to be seen of men; but purely because he loved the habitation of God's house; so he professed (Psa 26:8) and here he proved it. Those who set their affection upon the service of God will think no pains nor cost too much to bestow upon it; and then our offerings are pleasing to God when they come from love. Those that set their affection on things above will set their affection on the house of God, through which our way to heaven lies. Now this he gives them an account of, to stir them up to do likewise. Note, Those who would draw others to do that which is good must themselves lead. Those especially who are advanced above others in place and dignity should particularly contrive how to make their light shine before men, because the influence of their example is more powerful and extensive than that of other people. 5. He stirs them up to do as he had done (Ch1 29:5): And who then is willing to concentrate his service this day unto the Lord? (1.) We must each of us, in our several places, serve the Lord, and consecrate our service to him, separate it from other things that are foreign and interfere with it, and direct and design it for the honour and glory of God. (2.) We must make the service of God our business, must fill our hands to the Lord, so the Hebrew phrase is. Those who engage themselves in the service of God will have their hands full; there is work enough for the whole man in that service. The filling of our hands with the service of God intimates that we must serve him only, serve him liberally, and serve him in the strength of grace derived from him. (3.) We must be free herein, do it willingly and speedily, do it this day, when we are in a good mind. Who is willing? Now let him show it. II. How handsomely they all contributed towards the building of the temple when they were thus stirred up to it. Though they were persuaded to it, yet it is said, They offered willingly, Ch1 29:6. So he said who knew their hearts. Nay, they offered with a perfect heart, from a good principle and with a sincere respect to the glory of God, Ch1 29:9. How generous they were appears by the sum total of the contributions, Ch1 29:7, Ch1 29:8. They gave like themselves, like princes, like princes of Israel. And a pleasant day's work it was; for, 1. The people rejoiced, which may be meant of the people themselves that offered: they were glad of the opportunity of honouring God thus with their substance, and glad of the prospect of bringing this good work to perfection. Or the common people rejoiced in the generosity of their princes, that they had such rulers over them as were forward to this good work. Every Israelite is glad to see temple work carried on with vigour. 2. David rejoiced with great joy to see the good effects of his psalms and the other helps of devotion he had furnished them with, rejoiced that his son and successor would have those about him that were so well affected to the house of God, and that this work, upon which his heart was so much set, was likely to go on. Note, It is a great reviving to good men, when they are leaving the world, to see those they leave behind zealous for religion and likely to keep it up. Lord, now let thou thy servant depart in peace.
Verse 10
We have here, I. The solemn address which David made to God upon occasion of the noble subscriptions of the princes towards the building of the temple (Ch1 29:10): Wherefore David blessed the Lord, not only alone in his closet, but before all the congregation. This I expected when we read (Ch1 29:9) that David rejoiced with great joy; for such a devout man as he would no doubt make that the matter of his thanksgiving which was so much the matter of his rejoicing. He that looked round with comfort would certainly look up with praise. David was now old and looked upon himself as near his end; and it well becomes aged saints, and dying saints, to have their hearts much enlarged in praise and thanksgiving. This will silence their complaints of their bodily infirmities, and help to make the prospect of death itself less gloomy. David's psalms, toward the latter end of the book, are most of them psalms of praise. The nearer we come to the world of everlasting praise the more we should speak the language and do the work of that world. In this address, 1. He adores God, and ascribes glory to him as the God of Israel, blessed for ever and ever. Our Lord's prayer ends with a doxology much like this which David here begins with - for thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory. This is properly praising God - with holy awe and reverence, and agreeable affection, acknowledging, (1.) His infinite perfections; not only that he is great, powerful, glorious, etc., but that his is the greatness, power, and glory, that is, he has them in and of himself, Ch1 29:11. He is the fountain and centre of every thing that is bright and blessed. All that we can, in our most exalted praises, attribute to him he has an unquestionable title to. His is the greatness; his greatness is immense and incomprehensible; and all others are little, are nothing, in comparison of him. His is the power, and it is almighty and irresistible; power belongs to him, and all the power of all the creatures is derived from him and depends upon him. His is the glory; for his glory is his own end and the end of the whole creation. All the glory we can give him with our hearts, lips, and lives, comes infinitely short of what is his due. His is the victory; he transcends and surpasses all, and is able to conquer and subdue all things to himself; and his victories are incontestable and uncontrollable. And his is the majesty, real and personal; with him is terrible majesty, inexpressible and inconceivable. (2.) His sovereign dominion, as rightful owner and possessor of all: "All that is in the heaven, and in the earth, is thine, and at thy disposal, by the indisputable right of creation, and as supreme ruler and commander of all: thine is the kingdom, and all kings are thy subjects; for thou art head, and art to be exalted and worshipped as head above all." (3.) His universal influence and agency. All that are rich and honourable among the children of men have their riches and honours from God. This acknowledgment he would have the princes take notice of and join in, that they might not think they had merited any thing of God by their generosity; for from God they had their riches and honour, and what they had returned to him was but a small part of what they had received from him. Whoever are great among men, it is God's hand that makes them so; and, whatever strength we have, it is God that gives it to us, as the God of Israel our father, Ch1 29:10. Psa 68:35. 2. He acknowledges with thankfulness the grace of God enabling them to contribute so cheerfully towards the building of the temple (Ch1 29:13, Ch1 29:14): Now therefore, our God, we thank thee. Note, The more we do for God the more we are indebted to him for the honour of being employed in his service, and for grace enabling us, in any measure, to serve him. Does he therefore thank that servant? Luk 17:9. No: but that servant has a great deal of reason to thank him. He thanks God that they were able to offer so willingly. Note, (1.) It is a great instance of the power of God's grace in us to be able to do the work of God willingly. He works both to will and to do; and it is in the day of his power that his people are made willing, Psa 110:3. (2.) We must give God all the glory of all the good that is at any time done by ourselves or others. Our own good works must not be the matter of our pride, nor the good works of others the matter of our flattery, but both the matter of our praise; for certainly it is the greatest honour and pleasure in the world faithfully to serve God. 3. He speaks very humbly of himself, and his people, and the offerings they had now presented to God. (1.) For himself, and those that joined with him, though they were princes, he wondered that God should take such notice of them and do so much for them (Ch1 29:14): Who am I, and what is my people? David was the most honourable person, and Israel the most honourable person, then in the world; yet thus does he speak of himself and them, as unworthy the divine cognizance and favour. David now looks very great, presiding in an august assembly, appointing his successor, and making a noble present to the honour of God; and yet he is little and low in his own eyes: Who am I, O Lord? for (Ch1 29:15) we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, poor despicable creatures. Angels in heaven are at home there; saints on earth are but strangers here: Our days on the earth are as a shadow. David's days had as much of substance in them as most men's; for he was a great man, a good man, a useful man, and now an old man, one that lived long and lived to good purpose: and yet he puts himself not only into the number, but in the front, of those who must acknowledge that their days on the earth are as a shadow, which intimates that our life is a vain life, a dark life, a transient life, and a life that will have its periods either in perfect light or perfect darkness. The next words explain it: There is no abiding, Heb. no expectation. We cannot expect any great matters from it, nor can we expect any long continuance of it. This is mentioned here as that which forbids us to boast of the service we do to God. Alas! it is confined to a scantling of time, it is the service of a frail and short life, and therefore what can we pretend to merit by it? (2.) As to their offerings, Lord, says he, of thy own have we given thee (Ch1 29:14), and again (Ch1 29:16), It cometh of thy hand, and is all thy own. "We have it from thee as a free gift, and therefore are bound to use it for thee; and what we present to thee is but rent or interest from thy own." "In like manner" (says bishop Patrick) "we ought to acknowledge God in all spiritual things, referring every good thought, good purpose, good work, to his grace, from whom we receive it." Let him that glories therefore glory in the Lord. 4. He appeals to God concerning his own sincerity in what he did, Ch1 29:17. It is a great satisfaction to a good man to think that God tries the heart and has pleasure in uprightness, that, whoever may misinterpret or contemn it, he is acquainted with and approves of the way of the righteous. It was David's comfort that God knew with what pleasure he both offered his own and saw the people's offering. He was neither proud of his own good work nor envious of the good works of others. 5. He prays to God both for the people and for Solomon, that both might hold on as they began. In this prayer he addresses God as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, a God in covenant with them and with us for their sakes. Lord, give us grace to make good our part of the covenant, that we may not forfeit the benefit of it. Or thus: they were kept in their integrity by the grace of God establishing their way; let the same grace that was sufficient for them be so for us. (1.) For the people he prays (Ch1 29:18) that what good God had put into their minds he would always keep there, that they might never be worse than they were now, might never lose the convictions they were now under, nor cool in their affections to the house of God, but always have the same thoughts of things as they now seemed to have. Great consequences depend upon what is innermost, and what uppermost, in the imagination of the thoughts of our heart, what we aim at and what we love to think of. If any good have got possession of our hearts, or the hearts of our friends, it is good by prayer to commit the custody of it to the grace of God: "Lord, keep it there, keep it for ever there. David has prepared materials for the temple; but, Lord, do thou prepare their hearts for such a privilege;" establish their hearts, so the margin. "Confirm their resolutions. They are in a good mind; keep them so when I am gone, them and theirs for ever." (2.) For Solomon he prays (Ch1 29:19), Give him a perfect heart. He had charged him (Ch1 28:9) to serve God with a perfect heart; now here he prays to God to give him such a heart. He does not pray, "Lord, make him a rich man, a great man, a learned man;" but, "Lord, make him an honest man;" for that is better than all. "Lord, give him a perfect heart, not only in general to keep thy commandments, but in particular to build the palace, that he may do that service with a single eye." Yet his building the house would not prove him to have a perfect heart unless he made conscience of keeping God's commandments. It is not helping to build churches that will save us if we live in disobedience to God's law. II. The cheerful concurrence of this great assembly in this great solemnity. 1. They joined with David in the adoration of God. When he had done his prayer he called to them to testify their concurrence (Now bless the Lord your God, Ch1 29:20), which accordingly they did, by bowing down their heads, a gesture of adoration. Whoever is the mouth of the congregation, those only have the benefit who join with him, not by bowing down the head so much as by lifting up the soul. 2. They paid their respects to the king, looking upon him as an instrument in God's hand of much good to them; and, in honouring him, they honoured God. 3. The next day they offered abundance of sacrifices to God (Ch1 29:21), both burnt-offerings, which were wholly consumed, and peace-offerings, which the offerer had the greatest part of to himself. Hereby they testified a generous gratitude to God for the good posture their public affairs were in, though David was going the way of all the earth. 4. They feasted and rejoiced before God, Ch1 29:22. In token of their joy in God, and communion with him, they feasted upon their peace-offerings in a religious manner before the Lord. What had been offered to God they feasted upon, by which was intimated to them that they should be never the poorer for their late liberal contributions to the service of the temple; they themselves should feast upon the comfort of it. 5. They made Solomon king the second time. He having been before anointed in haste, upon occasion of Adonijah's rebellion, it was thought fit to repeat the ceremony, for the greater satisfaction of the people. They anointed him to the Lord. Magistrates must look upon themselves as set apart for God, to be his ministers, and must rule accordingly in the fear of God. Zadok also was anointed to be priest in the room of Abiathar, who had lately forfeited his honour. Happy art thou, O Israel! under such a prince and such a pontiff.
Verse 23
These verses bring king Solomon to his throne and king David to his grave. Thus the rising generation thrusts out that which went before, and says, "Make room for us." Every one has his day. I. Here is Solomon rising (Ch1 29:23): Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord. Not his throne which he prepared in the heavens, but the throne of Israel is called the throne of the Lord because not only is he King of all nations, and all kings rule under him, but he was in a peculiar manner King of Israel, Sa1 12:12. He had the founding, he had the filling, of their throne, by immediate direction. The municipal laws of their kingdom were divine. Urim and prophets were the privy counsellors of their princes; therefore is their throne called the throne of the Lord. Solomon's kingdom typified the kingdom of the Messiah, and his is indeed the throne of the Lord; for the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment to him; hence he calls him his King, Psa 2:6. Being set on the throne of the Lord, the throne to which God called him, he prospered. Those that follow the divine guidance may expect success by the divine blessing. Solomon prospered; for, 1. His people paid honour to him, as one to whom honour is due: All Israel obeyed him, that is, were ready to swear allegiance to him (Ch1 29:23), the princes and mighty men, and even the sons of David, though by seniority their title to the crown was prior to his, and they might think themselves wronged by his advancement. God thought fit to make him king, and made him fit to be so, and therefore they all submitted themselves to him. God inclined their hearts to do so, that his reign might, from the first, be peaceable. His father was a better man than he, and yet came to the crown with much difficulty, after long delay, and by many and slow steps. David had more faith, and therefore had it more tried. They submitted themselves (Heb. They gave the hand under Solomon), that is, bound themselves by oath to be true to him (putting the hand under the thigh was a ceremony anciently used in swearing); or they were so entirely devoted that they would put their hand under his feet to serve him. 2. God put honour upon him; for those that honour him he will honour: The Lord magnified Solomon exceedingly, Ch1 29:25. His very countenance and presence, I am apt to think, had something in them very great and awful. All he said and all he did commanded respect. None of all the judges or kings of Israel, his predecessors, made such a figure as he did nor lived in such splendour. II. Here is David's setting, that great man going off the stage. The historian here brings him to the end of his day, leaves him asleep, and draws the curtains about him. 1. He gives a summary account of the years of his reign, Ch1 29:26, Ch1 29:27. He reigned forty years, as did Moses, Othniel, Deborah, Gideon, Eli, Samuel, and Saul, who were before him, and Solomon after him. 2. He gives a short account of his death (Ch1 29:28), that he died full of days, riches, and honour; that is, (1.) Loaded with them. He was very old, and very rich, and very much honoured both of God and man. He had been a man of war from his youth, and, as such, had his soul continually in his hand; yet he was not cut off in the midst of his days, but was preserved through all dangers of a military life, lived to a good old age, and died in peace, died in his bed, and yet in the bed of honour. (2.) Satiated with them. He was full of days, riches, and honour; that is, he had enough of this world and of the riches and honours of it, and knew when he had enough, for he was very willing to die and leave it, having said (Psa 49:15), God shall receive me, and (Psa 23:4), Thou art with me. A good man will soon be full of days, riches, and honour, but will never be satisfied with them; no satisfaction but in God's loving kindness. 3. For a fuller account of David's life and reign he refers to the histories or records of those times, which were written by Samuel while he lived, and continued, after his death, by Nathan and Gad, Ch1 29:29. There was related what was observable in his government at home and his wars abroad, the times, that is, the events of the times, that went over him, Ch1 29:29, Ch1 29:30. These registers were then in being, but are now lost. Note, Good use may be made of those histories of the church which are authentic though not sacred or of divine inspiration.
Introduction
INTRODUCTION TO 1 CHRONICLES 29 This chapter relates how largely and liberally David, besides what he had before done, and his princes, offered towards defraying the expenses of building the temple, Ch1 29:1 and the joy and thankfulness that he and his people expressed on that account, attended with prayers for Solomon, and offering sacrifices unto the Lord, Ch1 29:9 and the chapter is closed, and so the book, with an account of the second unction of Solomon, the placing him on the throne, and the submission of all ranks of men unto him, and of the death of David, Ch1 29:22.
Verse 1
Furthermore, David the king said unto all the congregation,.... Having finished what he had to say to Solomon, he addressed the congregation again: Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen; both to be king, and to build the temple is yet young and tender; see Ch1 22:5. and the work is great; both of governing so great a people, and of building so magnificent a temple, especially the latter is meant: for the palace is not for man; for any mortal king, though ever so great: but for the Lord God; the Targum is,"but for the Word of the Lord God,''who is the King of kings, and Lord of lords; and therefore is to be built as with the greatest exactness, according to the pattern he himself has given, so with the greatest splendour and magnificence.
Verse 2
Now I have prepared with all my might for the house of my God,.... According to the utmost of his ability for the building and decorating of it: the gold for the things to be made of gold; as the candlesticks, shewbread tables, &c. and the silver for things of silver; as for basins, &c. and the brass for things of brass; as the brasen altar, brasen laver: and iron for things of iron; for nails, hinges, &c. and wood for things of wood; for rafters, ceilings, floors, &c. onyx stones; the Targum, stones of beryl: and stones to be set; other precious stones to be set in gold and silver: glistering stones; the Targum, emeralds; the word is used for stibium, or black lead, with which women painted their eyes; and so may signify black stones, like black lead; as white marble is after mentioned, perhaps black is here meant, or such stones Solomon paved the ways with leading to Jerusalem (y): but as such stones are not very glistering, there seems to be no reason for such an epithet; unless the stone "phengites" should be meant, which was a clear bright stone, and served for looking glasses. Domitian the Roman emperor, when under suspicion of being murdered by persons he had offended, garnished the porticos of his palace with this stone, which was of such brightness, that by the images formed in it he could see what was behind him (z); and so Lucian speaks (a) of Astarte having a splendid stone about her, called which in the night gave much light to the temple, but shone weakly in the day time, and looked like fire: and of divers colours; that is, stones of various colours, as jaspers, amethysts, &c. Kimchi interprets it of embroidered clothes, and garments of needlework, and in these precious stones were sometimes inserted: and all manner of precious stones; as pearls, diamonds, &c. it is hard to say what all these precious stones were for; Jarchi and Kimchi think they were to decorate the walls overlaid with gold, in which they were set; it is certain they were for garnishing and beautifying the house, see Ch2 3:6. and marble stones in abundance; for pillars, tables, and pavement, as Jarchi; this was Parian marble, according to the Septuagint and Vulgate Latin versions; the whitest of marble (b), found the island of Paros, and which agrees with the word here used. (y) Joseph. Antiqu. l. 8. c. 7. sect. 4. (z) Sueton. Vit. Domitian. c. 14. Vid. Plin. Nat. Hist. l. 36. c. 22. Isidor. Origin. l. 16. c. 4. (a) De Dea Syria. (b) "----Pario marmore purius." Horat. Carmin. l. 1. ode 19.
Verse 3
Moreover, because I have set my affection to the house of my God,.... Had a good will to it, and was earnestly desirous of having it built, and that in a grand manner: I have of my own proper good; which he had treasured up for his own use: of gold and silver, even that I have given to the house of my God; to build or ornament it, or make vessels for it: over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house; for the building of the temple, which is made mention of in the preceding chapter.
Verse 4
Even three thousand talents of gold,.... Which, according to Scheuchzer (c), amount to 36,660,000 ducats of gold; and, according to Brerewood (d), to 13,500,000 pounds of our money: of the gold of Ophir; which was reckoned the best gold; not Ophir in India, which was not known till Solomon's time, but in Arabia, as Bochart (e) has shown; so Eupolemus (f), an Heathen writer, says, that David having built ships at Achan, a city of Arabia, sent miners to Urphe (supposed to be the same with Ophir) in the island of the Red sea, abounding with gold, and from thence fetched it; see Gill on 1Ki 9:28, and that he was able to give so great a sum out of his own substance, Dr. Prideaux (g) thinks, can only be accounted for by his great returns from this traffic; since these 3000 talents, according to him, amounted to 21,600,000 pounds sterling: and seven thousand talents of refined silver; amounting, according to Scheuchzer (h), to 31,500,000 imperials, or rix dollars; and, according to Brerewood (i), to 2,625,000 pounds of our money: to overlay the walls of the houses withal; the gold was to overlay the walls of the holy and most holy place, the silver to overlay the walls of the chambers built around the temple. (c) Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631. (d) De Ponder. & Pret. Vet. Num. c. 5. (e) Phaleg. l. 2. c. 27. col. 140. (f) Apud Euseb. Evangel. Praepar. l. 9. c. 30. p. 447. (g) Connection, par. 1. p. 5, 6. (h) Ut supra. (Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631.) (i) Ut supra. (De Ponder. & Pret. Vet. Num. c. 5.)
Verse 5
The gold for things of gold, the silver for things of silver,.... The one for what was to be overlaid with gold, the other for what was to be overlaid with silver: and for all manner of work to be made by the hands of artificers; what remained was to be made use of in employing artificers in making vessels for the temple that were needful: and who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord; or fill his hand? (k) and give largely and liberally towards building an house for the service and worship, honour and glory, of God; and David, having set so good an example, could with the better grace recommend the good work to his nobles and people, and which had its desired effect, as follows. (k) "impleat manum suam", V. L. "ut impleat manum suam", Vatablus, Piscator.
Verse 6
Then the chief of the fathers and princes of the tribes of Israel,.... The princes of the twelve tribes: and the captains of thousands, and of hundreds, with the rulers over the king's work; who were now assembled, Ch1 28:1. offered willingly; and cheerfully; needed no more arguments to press them to it, but at once readily communicated.
Verse 7
And gave for the service of the house of God,.... For building and adorning it, and providing proper utensils for it: of gold five thousand talents; which, according to Scheuchzer (l), came to 61,100,000 ducats of gold: and these, with "the 10,000 drachms"; make of our money, according to Brerewood (m), 22,507,500 pounds; some reckon a drachm at two ducats and a half, and somewhat more (n): and of silver ten thousand talents; which, according to the former writer, amounted to 450,000,000 imperials, or rix dollars; and, according to the latter, they made of our money 3,750,000 pounds: and of brass eighteen thousand talents, and one hundred thousand talents of iron; the weight of each of which were so much. (l) Ut supra. (Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631.) (m) Ut supra. (Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631.) (n) Eisenschmidius apud Scheuchzer. ib. p. 635.
Verse 8
And they with whom precious stones were found,.... Such as are mentioned Ch1 29:2. gave them to the treasure of the house of the Lord; to be laid up there: by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite; who, and his sons, had the care of that treasury, Ch1 27:21.
Verse 9
Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly,.... They were not only glad that they had it to offer, but that they had hearts to do it; they found themselves quite free to do the work, and saw it was so with others, which gave them extreme pleasure: because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the Lord; not grudgingly, but cheerfully; not pressed and urged to it; not by constraint, but freely, and that with a pure view to the honour and glory of God: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy; it made his heart glad exceedingly, now he was old, and just going out of the world, to see this good work in such forwardness, on which his heart had been so much set; it gave him reason to believe it would be set about in good earnest, be carried on with vigour, and brought to perfection.
Verse 10
Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the congregation,.... To whose goodness he ascribed both the ability and willingness of him, and his people, to offer after such a manner; he knew it was God that wrought in them both to will and to do, and therefore gave him the glory of it: and David said, blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel our Father, for ever and ever; the phrase, "our father", does not belong to the God of Israel, their father by covenant and adoption, but to Israel, or Jacob, the ancestor of the Jewish nation; who is made mention of on this occasion, he being the first that spoke of building an house for God, as some Jewish writers, Jarchi and Kimchi, observe, see Gen 28:22.
Verse 11
Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty,.... That is, either God is possessed of all greatness and immensity, of dignity of nature, and of all perfections; of almighty power, of excellent glory, of superiority to all beings and of honour, and majesty, and all that grandeur, might, and honour in men, and victory over others; the majestic appearance they make, and exaltation above others they have, are all of God: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; they are both made by him, and all that is in them, and therefore he has the sole right unto them: thine is the kingdom, O Lord; of nature and Providence; he has the sole dominion over all creatures, and the sovereign disposal of all things: and thou art exalted as head above all; men on earth, and angels in heaven.
Verse 12
Both riches and honour come of thee,.... Whatever of either the children of men have is not owing to their merits, nor to their diligence and industry, and wise conduct, but to the providence of God, Ecc 9:11 so the gods with the Heathens are said (o) to be givers of riches: and thou reignest over all; govern the world by wisdom, and dispose all things in it for the best: in thine hand is power and might; to do whatsoever he pleaseth: and in thine hand it is to make great; in worldly things, and so in spiritual: and to give strength unto all; against their enemies, and to do the will and work of God; of all which David had had an experience. (o) Hesiod. Opera, ver. 124. see ver. 316.
Verse 13
Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. That he that was so great, and so much above them, should take notice of them, and bestow so many great and good things on them. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. That he that was so great, and so much above them, should take notice of them, and bestow so many great and good things on them. 1 Chronicles 29:14 ch1 29:14 ch1 29:14 ch1 29:14But who am I,.... Originally dust and ashes, a sinful creature, unworthy to receive anything from God, and of having the honour of doing anything for him: and what is my people: subject to him, the least of all people, separated from the nations round about them, and despised by them: that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? that they, who were a poor people, some years ago brought out of Egyptian bondage, should now be possessed of such an affluence, and have such a generous heart and liberal spirit given them, as to contribute in so large and liberal a manner as they had done; all was owing to the goodness of God to them, and the efficacy of his grace upon them: for all things come of thee; all good things, temporal and spiritual; the Lord is the fountain of goodness, and Father of mercies: and of thine own have we given thee; for there is nothing a man has but he has received from the Lord, and therefore can give nothing to him but his own, see Rom 11:35.
Verse 14
For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers,.... For though they were in possession of the land of Canaan, yet they held it not in their own right, but as the Lord's: who said, the land is mine, Lev 25:23, they were but tenants in it, and were not to abide long here; they belonged to another city and country; the consideration of which might tend to set them loose to worldly things, and the more easily to part with them for the service of God, and the honour of his name: our days on the earth are as a shadow; man's life is expressed by days, not months and years, being so short; and by days on earth, in distinction from the days of heaven, or eternity; and these said to be as a shadow, of a short continuance, empty, mutable, and uncertain, dark and obscure, quickly gone, like the shadow of the sun; and not only like that, or of a mountain, tree or wall; but, as the Targum, of a bird that is flying, which passes away at once: and there is none abiding; not long, much less always, being but sojourners as before; so Cato in Cicero (p) is represented as saying,"I depart out of this life as from an inn, and not an house; for nature has given us an inn to sojourn, not a place to dwell in:''or "there is no hope or expectation" (q); of living long, of recalling time, and of avoiding death. (p) De Senectute, c. 23. (q) "non est expectatio sive spes", Pagninus, Montanus, Vatablus, Michaelis.
Verse 15
O Lord our God, all this store that we have prepared,.... Of gold, silver, &c. that he and his people had provided and contributed: the gold, according to Jacob Leon (r), amounted to 59,766 tons of gold, and 46,123 gilders, each ton to be reckoned at least 1000 pounds sterling; the silver, reduced to the value of gold, made 46,337 tons, and two hundred and fifty gilders; but both, according to Witsius (s), amounted to 20,585 tons of gold; and if the talents were talents of the sanctuary, and they double the common talents, as some say they were, it was as much more, and may well be expressed by all this store, besides the brass, iron, &c. to build thee an house for thine holy name; to perform holy and religious worship in it, for the glory of his name: cometh of thine hand, and is all thine own: this he repeats, that God might have all the glory of all they had and did. (r) Relation of Memorable Things in the Tabernacle and Temple, ch. 3. p. 14, 15. (s) Miscellan. tom. 2. p. 258.
Verse 16
I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart,.... Searchest it, and knowest it perfectly, whether what is done is from it: and hast pleasure in uprightness; in what is done in sincerity and uprightness of heart: as for me, in the uprightness of my heart I have willingly offered all these things; for the truth of which he could appeal to the heart searching God: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee; he judged by what they did, and their manner of doing it, that it was done in the uprightness of their hearts also, as his were, which gave him sensible joy and pleasure.
Verse 17
O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, our fathers, The ancestors of the Jewish nation, whose covenant God the Lord was, and who had ever been mindful of his promise to them, with respect to them their seed: keep this for ever in the imagination of the thoughts of the heart of thy people; let the same disposition of mind always continue in them to serve the Lord their God: and prepare their heart unto thee; incline and dispose their minds always to fear the Lord, and obey his will.
Verse 18
And give unto Solomon my son a perfect heart to keep thy commandments, thy testimonies, and thy statutes,.... All the laws of God, moral, ceremonial, and judicial, even to observe them cordially and sincerely: and to do all those things; he had suggested to him particularly: and to build the palace for the which I have made provision; as before declared.
Verse 19
And David said to all the congregation,.... Consisting of princes, captains, and officers, Ch1 28:1. now bless the Lord your God; as he had done, for putting it into the power of their hands, and into their hearts, to do what they had: and all the congregation blessed the Lord God of their fathers; some one as the mouth of the rest put up a thanksgiving to God, as David directed, to which they all assented, and in which they all joined: and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the Lord and the king; the one with religious worship, the other with civil; the Syriac and Arabic versions more plainly distinguish, "they worshipped the Lord, and blessed David the king"; though some think Solomon, now made king, is meant.
Verse 20
And they sacrificed sacrifices unto the Lord,.... David and the congregation: and offered burnt offerings unto the Lord on the morrow after that day; not having time enough on that day to perform, at least not all of them; and these they offered on the altar David had erected in the threshingfloor of Araunah, by the order of God, where afterwards the temple was built: even a thousand bullocks, a thousand rams, and a thousand lambs, with their burnt offerings; and meat offerings also, both which always went along with them: and sacrifices in abundance for all Israel; whom they represented; these last were peace offerings, part of which the offerers had for themselves and friends to feast on, as these did, as follows.
Verse 21
And they did eat and drink before the Lord on that day with great gladness,.... Before the ark of the Lord, which was in the tabernacle David had pitched for it: and they made Solomon the son of David king the second time; the first was upon Adonijah's rebellion, and was done in the presence only of the inhabitants of Jerusalem; but this was done by and in the presence of all the great personages in the land: and anointed him unto the Lord to be the chief governor; under his father during his lifetime, and then to reign in his own right: and Zadok to be priest; high priest; which office yet he did not exercise till after the death of David, when Abiathar was thrust out by Solomon.
Verse 22
Then Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord,.... Who had given it to him, and established him on it, and whose vicegerent he was, and over whose people he ruled: as king instead of David; he was viceroy to him in his life time, and succeeded him at his death, when he had the full power of government: and prospered; his reign was happy and peaceable: and all Israel obeyed him; at once; whereas it was some time, even years, before all Israel obeyed David.
Verse 23
And all the princes and the mighty men,.... The princes of the tribes, and the officers of the army: and all the sons likewise of King David; as many as were living: and though they were elder than Solomon: they submitted to Solomon the king; or "gave the hand under" (t) him, promised obedience, and swore allegiance to him, see Gen 24:2. (t) "dederunt manum sub Selomoh", Pagninus, Montanus, Michaelis.
Verse 24
And the Lord magnified Solomon exceedingly before all Israel,.... By giving him such a large share of wisdom and understanding in government: and bestowed upon him such royal majesty; not only such wealth and riches, but such honour and reverence: as had not been on any king before him in Israel; not on Saul, nor even on David.
Verse 25
Thus David the son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. As before related in this book, and in the second book of Samuel; his reign being long and glorious. Thus David the son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. As before related in this book, and in the second book of Samuel; his reign being long and glorious. 1 Chronicles 29:27 ch1 29:27 ch1 29:27 ch1 29:27And the time that he reigned over Israel was forty years,.... See Kg1 2:11.
Verse 26
And he died in a good old age,.... Being seventy years of age: full of days, riches, and honour; had as much of either of them as he could wish for; and having enough, he sought after, and was taken to the possession of, eternal life, durable riches, and honours, and glory, that fade not away: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead; in full power and authority.
Verse 27
Now the acts of David the king, first and last,.... All that he did that was memorable, both before he was king, and when king in Hebron, and then in Jerusalem: behold, they are written in the book of Samuel the seer, and in the book of Nathan the prophet, and in the book of Gad the seer; which were journals of his life and actions, begun by Samuel, and carried on by Nathan and Gad; out of which what is recorded in canonical Scripture was taken by divine direction, and preserved, while other writings are lost; or rather the book of Samuel designs the first book of Samuel, and the books of Nathan and Gad the second book of Samuel, by whom it was written.
Verse 28
With all his reign and his might,.... The whole of it, and the mighty valiant acts done by him, the battles he fought, and the victories he obtained: and the times that went over him, and over Israel, and all the kingdoms of the countries; things that were done in his time in Israel, and in the nations round about subdued by him, as Moab, Ammon, Syria, and Philistia. Next: 2 Chronicles Introduction
Introduction
INTRODUCTION TO 1 CHRONICLES 29 This chapter relates how largely and liberally David, besides what he had before done, and his princes, offered towards defraying the expenses of building the temple, Ch1 29:1 and the joy and thankfulness that he and his people expressed on that account, attended with prayers for Solomon, and offering sacrifices unto the Lord, Ch1 29:9 and the chapter is closed, and so the book, with an account of the second unction of Solomon, the placing him on the throne, and the submission of all ranks of men unto him, and of the death of David, Ch1 29:22.
Verse 1
Furthermore, David the king said unto all the congregation,.... Having finished what he had to say to Solomon, he addressed the congregation again: Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen; both to be king, and to build the temple is yet young and tender; see Ch1 22:5. and the work is great; both of governing so great a people, and of building so magnificent a temple, especially the latter is meant: for the palace is not for man; for any mortal king, though ever so great: but for the Lord God; the Targum is,"but for the Word of the Lord God,''who is the King of kings, and Lord of lords; and therefore is to be built as with the greatest exactness, according to the pattern he himself has given, so with the greatest splendour and magnificence.
Verse 2
Now I have prepared with all my might for the house of my God,.... According to the utmost of his ability for the building and decorating of it: the gold for the things to be made of gold; as the candlesticks, shewbread tables, &c. and the silver for things of silver; as for basins, &c. and the brass for things of brass; as the brasen altar, brasen laver: and iron for things of iron; for nails, hinges, &c. and wood for things of wood; for rafters, ceilings, floors, &c. onyx stones; the Targum, stones of beryl: and stones to be set; other precious stones to be set in gold and silver: glistering stones; the Targum, emeralds; the word is used for stibium, or black lead, with which women painted their eyes; and so may signify black stones, like black lead; as white marble is after mentioned, perhaps black is here meant, or such stones Solomon paved the ways with leading to Jerusalem (y): but as such stones are not very glistering, there seems to be no reason for such an epithet; unless the stone "phengites" should be meant, which was a clear bright stone, and served for looking glasses. Domitian the Roman emperor, when under suspicion of being murdered by persons he had offended, garnished the porticos of his palace with this stone, which was of such brightness, that by the images formed in it he could see what was behind him (z); and so Lucian speaks (a) of Astarte having a splendid stone about her, called which in the night gave much light to the temple, but shone weakly in the day time, and looked like fire: and of divers colours; that is, stones of various colours, as jaspers, amethysts, &c. Kimchi interprets it of embroidered clothes, and garments of needlework, and in these precious stones were sometimes inserted: and all manner of precious stones; as pearls, diamonds, &c. it is hard to say what all these precious stones were for; Jarchi and Kimchi think they were to decorate the walls overlaid with gold, in which they were set; it is certain they were for garnishing and beautifying the house, see Ch2 3:6. and marble stones in abundance; for pillars, tables, and pavement, as Jarchi; this was Parian marble, according to the Septuagint and Vulgate Latin versions; the whitest of marble (b), found the island of Paros, and which agrees with the word here used. (y) Joseph. Antiqu. l. 8. c. 7. sect. 4. (z) Sueton. Vit. Domitian. c. 14. Vid. Plin. Nat. Hist. l. 36. c. 22. Isidor. Origin. l. 16. c. 4. (a) De Dea Syria. (b) "----Pario marmore purius." Horat. Carmin. l. 1. ode 19.
Verse 3
Moreover, because I have set my affection to the house of my God,.... Had a good will to it, and was earnestly desirous of having it built, and that in a grand manner: I have of my own proper good; which he had treasured up for his own use: of gold and silver, even that I have given to the house of my God; to build or ornament it, or make vessels for it: over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house; for the building of the temple, which is made mention of in the preceding chapter.
Verse 4
Even three thousand talents of gold,.... Which, according to Scheuchzer (c), amount to 36,660,000 ducats of gold; and, according to Brerewood (d), to 13,500,000 pounds of our money: of the gold of Ophir; which was reckoned the best gold; not Ophir in India, which was not known till Solomon's time, but in Arabia, as Bochart (e) has shown; so Eupolemus (f), an Heathen writer, says, that David having built ships at Achan, a city of Arabia, sent miners to Urphe (supposed to be the same with Ophir) in the island of the Red sea, abounding with gold, and from thence fetched it; see Gill on 1Ki 9:28, and that he was able to give so great a sum out of his own substance, Dr. Prideaux (g) thinks, can only be accounted for by his great returns from this traffic; since these 3000 talents, according to him, amounted to 21,600,000 pounds sterling: and seven thousand talents of refined silver; amounting, according to Scheuchzer (h), to 31,500,000 imperials, or rix dollars; and, according to Brerewood (i), to 2,625,000 pounds of our money: to overlay the walls of the houses withal; the gold was to overlay the walls of the holy and most holy place, the silver to overlay the walls of the chambers built around the temple. (c) Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631. (d) De Ponder. & Pret. Vet. Num. c. 5. (e) Phaleg. l. 2. c. 27. col. 140. (f) Apud Euseb. Evangel. Praepar. l. 9. c. 30. p. 447. (g) Connection, par. 1. p. 5, 6. (h) Ut supra. (Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631.) (i) Ut supra. (De Ponder. & Pret. Vet. Num. c. 5.)
Verse 5
The gold for things of gold, the silver for things of silver,.... The one for what was to be overlaid with gold, the other for what was to be overlaid with silver: and for all manner of work to be made by the hands of artificers; what remained was to be made use of in employing artificers in making vessels for the temple that were needful: and who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord; or fill his hand? (k) and give largely and liberally towards building an house for the service and worship, honour and glory, of God; and David, having set so good an example, could with the better grace recommend the good work to his nobles and people, and which had its desired effect, as follows. (k) "impleat manum suam", V. L. "ut impleat manum suam", Vatablus, Piscator.
Verse 6
Then the chief of the fathers and princes of the tribes of Israel,.... The princes of the twelve tribes: and the captains of thousands, and of hundreds, with the rulers over the king's work; who were now assembled, Ch1 28:1. offered willingly; and cheerfully; needed no more arguments to press them to it, but at once readily communicated.
Verse 7
And gave for the service of the house of God,.... For building and adorning it, and providing proper utensils for it: of gold five thousand talents; which, according to Scheuchzer (l), came to 61,100,000 ducats of gold: and these, with "the 10,000 drachms"; make of our money, according to Brerewood (m), 22,507,500 pounds; some reckon a drachm at two ducats and a half, and somewhat more (n): and of silver ten thousand talents; which, according to the former writer, amounted to 450,000,000 imperials, or rix dollars; and, according to the latter, they made of our money 3,750,000 pounds: and of brass eighteen thousand talents, and one hundred thousand talents of iron; the weight of each of which were so much. (l) Ut supra. (Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631.) (m) Ut supra. (Physica Sacra, vol. 4. p. 631.) (n) Eisenschmidius apud Scheuchzer. ib. p. 635.
Verse 8
And they with whom precious stones were found,.... Such as are mentioned Ch1 29:2. gave them to the treasure of the house of the Lord; to be laid up there: by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite; who, and his sons, had the care of that treasury, Ch1 27:21.
Verse 9
Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly,.... They were not only glad that they had it to offer, but that they had hearts to do it; they found themselves quite free to do the work, and saw it was so with others, which gave them extreme pleasure: because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the Lord; not grudgingly, but cheerfully; not pressed and urged to it; not by constraint, but freely, and that with a pure view to the honour and glory of God: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy; it made his heart glad exceedingly, now he was old, and just going out of the world, to see this good work in such forwardness, on which his heart had been so much set; it gave him reason to believe it would be set about in good earnest, be carried on with vigour, and brought to perfection.
Verse 10
Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the congregation,.... To whose goodness he ascribed both the ability and willingness of him, and his people, to offer after such a manner; he knew it was God that wrought in them both to will and to do, and therefore gave him the glory of it: and David said, blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel our Father, for ever and ever; the phrase, "our father", does not belong to the God of Israel, their father by covenant and adoption, but to Israel, or Jacob, the ancestor of the Jewish nation; who is made mention of on this occasion, he being the first that spoke of building an house for God, as some Jewish writers, Jarchi and Kimchi, observe, see Gen 28:22.
Verse 11
Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty,.... That is, either God is possessed of all greatness and immensity, of dignity of nature, and of all perfections; of almighty power, of excellent glory, of superiority to all beings and of honour, and majesty, and all that grandeur, might, and honour in men, and victory over others; the majestic appearance they make, and exaltation above others they have, are all of God: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; they are both made by him, and all that is in them, and therefore he has the sole right unto them: thine is the kingdom, O Lord; of nature and Providence; he has the sole dominion over all creatures, and the sovereign disposal of all things: and thou art exalted as head above all; men on earth, and angels in heaven.
Verse 12
Both riches and honour come of thee,.... Whatever of either the children of men have is not owing to their merits, nor to their diligence and industry, and wise conduct, but to the providence of God, Ecc 9:11 so the gods with the Heathens are said (o) to be givers of riches: and thou reignest over all; govern the world by wisdom, and dispose all things in it for the best: in thine hand is power and might; to do whatsoever he pleaseth: and in thine hand it is to make great; in worldly things, and so in spiritual: and to give strength unto all; against their enemies, and to do the will and work of God; of all which David had had an experience. (o) Hesiod. Opera, ver. 124. see ver. 316.
Verse 13
Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. That he that was so great, and so much above them, should take notice of them, and bestow so many great and good things on them. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. That he that was so great, and so much above them, should take notice of them, and bestow so many great and good things on them. 1 Chronicles 29:14 ch1 29:14 ch1 29:14 ch1 29:14But who am I,.... Originally dust and ashes, a sinful creature, unworthy to receive anything from God, and of having the honour of doing anything for him: and what is my people: subject to him, the least of all people, separated from the nations round about them, and despised by them: that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? that they, who were a poor people, some years ago brought out of Egyptian bondage, should now be possessed of such an affluence, and have such a generous heart and liberal spirit given them, as to contribute in so large and liberal a manner as they had done; all was owing to the goodness of God to them, and the efficacy of his grace upon them: for all things come of thee; all good things, temporal and spiritual; the Lord is the fountain of goodness, and Father of mercies: and of thine own have we given thee; for there is nothing a man has but he has received from the Lord, and therefore can give nothing to him but his own, see Rom 11:35.
Verse 14
For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers,.... For though they were in possession of the land of Canaan, yet they held it not in their own right, but as the Lord's: who said, the land is mine, Lev 25:23, they were but tenants in it, and were not to abide long here; they belonged to another city and country; the consideration of which might tend to set them loose to worldly things, and the more easily to part with them for the service of God, and the honour of his name: our days on the earth are as a shadow; man's life is expressed by days, not months and years, being so short; and by days on earth, in distinction from the days of heaven, or eternity; and these said to be as a shadow, of a short continuance, empty, mutable, and uncertain, dark and obscure, quickly gone, like the shadow of the sun; and not only like that, or of a mountain, tree or wall; but, as the Targum, of a bird that is flying, which passes away at once: and there is none abiding; not long, much less always, being but sojourners as before; so Cato in Cicero (p) is represented as saying,"I depart out of this life as from an inn, and not an house; for nature has given us an inn to sojourn, not a place to dwell in:''or "there is no hope or expectation" (q); of living long, of recalling time, and of avoiding death. (p) De Senectute, c. 23. (q) "non est expectatio sive spes", Pagninus, Montanus, Vatablus, Michaelis.
Verse 15
O Lord our God, all this store that we have prepared,.... Of gold, silver, &c. that he and his people had provided and contributed: the gold, according to Jacob Leon (r), amounted to 59,766 tons of gold, and 46,123 gilders, each ton to be reckoned at least 1000 pounds sterling; the silver, reduced to the value of gold, made 46,337 tons, and two hundred and fifty gilders; but both, according to Witsius (s), amounted to 20,585 tons of gold; and if the talents were talents of the sanctuary, and they double the common talents, as some say they were, it was as much more, and may well be expressed by all this store, besides the brass, iron, &c. to build thee an house for thine holy name; to perform holy and religious worship in it, for the glory of his name: cometh of thine hand, and is all thine own: this he repeats, that God might have all the glory of all they had and did. (r) Relation of Memorable Things in the Tabernacle and Temple, ch. 3. p. 14, 15. (s) Miscellan. tom. 2. p. 258.
Verse 16
I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart,.... Searchest it, and knowest it perfectly, whether what is done is from it: and hast pleasure in uprightness; in what is done in sincerity and uprightness of heart: as for me, in the uprightness of my heart I have willingly offered all these things; for the truth of which he could appeal to the heart searching God: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee; he judged by what they did, and their manner of doing it, that it was done in the uprightness of their hearts also, as his were, which gave him sensible joy and pleasure.
Verse 17
O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, our fathers, The ancestors of the Jewish nation, whose covenant God the Lord was, and who had ever been mindful of his promise to them, with respect to them their seed: keep this for ever in the imagination of the thoughts of the heart of thy people; let the same disposition of mind always continue in them to serve the Lord their God: and prepare their heart unto thee; incline and dispose their minds always to fear the Lord, and obey his will.
Verse 18
And give unto Solomon my son a perfect heart to keep thy commandments, thy testimonies, and thy statutes,.... All the laws of God, moral, ceremonial, and judicial, even to observe them cordially and sincerely: and to do all those things; he had suggested to him particularly: and to build the palace for the which I have made provision; as before declared.
Verse 19
And David said to all the congregation,.... Consisting of princes, captains, and officers, Ch1 28:1. now bless the Lord your God; as he had done, for putting it into the power of their hands, and into their hearts, to do what they had: and all the congregation blessed the Lord God of their fathers; some one as the mouth of the rest put up a thanksgiving to God, as David directed, to which they all assented, and in which they all joined: and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the Lord and the king; the one with religious worship, the other with civil; the Syriac and Arabic versions more plainly distinguish, "they worshipped the Lord, and blessed David the king"; though some think Solomon, now made king, is meant.
Verse 20
And they sacrificed sacrifices unto the Lord,.... David and the congregation: and offered burnt offerings unto the Lord on the morrow after that day; not having time enough on that day to perform, at least not all of them; and these they offered on the altar David had erected in the threshingfloor of Araunah, by the order of God, where afterwards the temple was built: even a thousand bullocks, a thousand rams, and a thousand lambs, with their burnt offerings; and meat offerings also, both which always went along with them: and sacrifices in abundance for all Israel; whom they represented; these last were peace offerings, part of which the offerers had for themselves and friends to feast on, as these did, as follows.
Verse 21
And they did eat and drink before the Lord on that day with great gladness,.... Before the ark of the Lord, which was in the tabernacle David had pitched for it: and they made Solomon the son of David king the second time; the first was upon Adonijah's rebellion, and was done in the presence only of the inhabitants of Jerusalem; but this was done by and in the presence of all the great personages in the land: and anointed him unto the Lord to be the chief governor; under his father during his lifetime, and then to reign in his own right: and Zadok to be priest; high priest; which office yet he did not exercise till after the death of David, when Abiathar was thrust out by Solomon.
Verse 22
Then Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord,.... Who had given it to him, and established him on it, and whose vicegerent he was, and over whose people he ruled: as king instead of David; he was viceroy to him in his life time, and succeeded him at his death, when he had the full power of government: and prospered; his reign was happy and peaceable: and all Israel obeyed him; at once; whereas it was some time, even years, before all Israel obeyed David.
Verse 23
And all the princes and the mighty men,.... The princes of the tribes, and the officers of the army: and all the sons likewise of King David; as many as were living: and though they were elder than Solomon: they submitted to Solomon the king; or "gave the hand under" (t) him, promised obedience, and swore allegiance to him, see Gen 24:2. (t) "dederunt manum sub Selomoh", Pagninus, Montanus, Michaelis.
Verse 24
And the Lord magnified Solomon exceedingly before all Israel,.... By giving him such a large share of wisdom and understanding in government: and bestowed upon him such royal majesty; not only such wealth and riches, but such honour and reverence: as had not been on any king before him in Israel; not on Saul, nor even on David.
Verse 25
Thus David the son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. As before related in this book, and in the second book of Samuel; his reign being long and glorious. Thus David the son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. As before related in this book, and in the second book of Samuel; his reign being long and glorious. 1 Chronicles 29:27 ch1 29:27 ch1 29:27 ch1 29:27And the time that he reigned over Israel was forty years,.... See Kg1 2:11.
Verse 26
And he died in a good old age,.... Being seventy years of age: full of days, riches, and honour; had as much of either of them as he could wish for; and having enough, he sought after, and was taken to the possession of, eternal life, durable riches, and honours, and glory, that fade not away: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead; in full power and authority.
Verse 27
Now the acts of David the king, first and last,.... All that he did that was memorable, both before he was king, and when king in Hebron, and then in Jerusalem: behold, they are written in the book of Samuel the seer, and in the book of Nathan the prophet, and in the book of Gad the seer; which were journals of his life and actions, begun by Samuel, and carried on by Nathan and Gad; out of which what is recorded in canonical Scripture was taken by divine direction, and preserved, while other writings are lost; or rather the book of Samuel designs the first book of Samuel, and the books of Nathan and Gad the second book of Samuel, by whom it was written.
Verse 28
With all his reign and his might,.... The whole of it, and the mighty valiant acts done by him, the battles he fought, and the victories he obtained: and the times that went over him, and over Israel, and all the kingdoms of the countries; things that were done in his time in Israel, and in the nations round about subdued by him, as Moab, Ammon, Syria, and Philistia. Next: 2 Chronicles Introduction
Verse 1
29:1-9 David persuaded the assembly of Israel’s leaders (28:1) to offer gifts to the Lord for the Temple. David’s own generous gift provided an example of the amounts leaders should consider. The Chronicler emphasizes that the heavy expense of building the Temple was not shouldered by Solomon alone; Solomon added to the contributions made by David and the leaders of Israel (see 22:14).
Verse 6
29:6 Israel’s leaders gave willingly, as had been the case with the Tabernacle (Exod 25:1-7).
Verse 7
29:7 10,000 gold coins: Persian darics were first minted during the reign of King Darius I of Persia (522–486 BC). In describing the Temple gifts presented during the days of Solomon, the Chronicler converted the information of his sources into the equivalents of his own day, just as the NLT converts Hebrew weights and measures to modern equivalents.
Verse 10
29:10-19 David’s prayer of praise concluded his addresses at Solomon’s coronation. The prayer extols God’s power and the glory of his kingdom, and it serves to dedicate the offerings given for building the Temple. The prayer is composed of three parts: the doxology (29:10b-13), the presentation and dedication of the offerings (29:14-17), and the petition (29:18-19).
Verse 18
29:18-19 David did not ask God to grant power, victory, or riches, or for the establishment of Solomon’s kingdom. Instead he asked God to make the people of Israel, and Solomon in particular, always want to obey the Lord. Gaining this kind of heart attitude is a gift from the Lord; success and prosperity are secondary.
Verse 21
29:21-25 Sacrifices followed the speeches and prayers at Solomon’s coronation. Solomon and Zadok were anointed, and Solomon acceded to the throne. Zadok was not beginning his priestly role but was being dedicated to serve in the Temple itself. (The descendants of Zadok are mentioned in Ezek 40:46; 43:19; 44:15; 48:11.)
Verse 26
29:26-30 The Chronicler concludes his account of David’s reign with a stylized summary, similar in form to those used for all the kings of Israel and Judah (e.g., 1 Kgs 22:41-50). Like Abraham (Gen 25:8) and Isaac (Gen 35:29), David . . . died at a ripe old age with wealth and honor.
Verse 29
29:29 The sources used for the chronicles of David’s reign are associated with three prophets, named in the order in which they appear in Chronicles: Samuel (11:3), Nathan (17:1-27), and Gad (21:9). The Chronicler had access to various sources in addition to the books of Samuel and Kings (see study note on 9:1; see also 1 Kgs 11:41-43; 14:19-20, 29-31).
Verse 30
29:30 The concluding verse extols David by making him the center of the events of his time.