1 Chronicles 18

1 Chronicles 18:1

D. David’s Victories (Chaps. 1820)The events summarized in the next three chapters (1820) took place historically after David was made king (chap. 12) and before the ark was brought to Jerusalem (chaps. 1317). Many of Israel’s hostile neighbors were now brought under her sway as had been originally intended by God. Up till then sin and disobedience had kept her in servitude under those she was meant to conquer. Now, tribute was sent from these Gentile nations to Israel in recognition of her superiority and power. 18:1-6 The Philistines, Moabites, Syrians, and Edomites were all defeated because the Lord preserved [“helped,” NASB] David wherever he went.Verse 4 records another failure on David’s part to observe the laws concerning the behavior of Israel’s kings (Deu_17:15-17). First he had multiplied wives for himself (1Ch_14:3), and now he multiplied horses. 18:7-11 Much wealth was subsequently acquired. For example, all kinds of articles of gold, silver, and bronze, taken from Hadadezer’s servants, he dedicated . . . to the LORD, later to be used by Solomon in building the temple. 18:12, 13 The eighteen thousand who were killed by Abishai are attributed to David in the parallel passage in 2Sa_8:13. See the commentary there for a resolution of this apparent discrepancy. 18:14-17 David’s enemies felt his wrath, but his people enjoyed his righteousness and justice. He was not only a good general but also an efficient administrator. David’s officers and officials are listed here as well as in 2Sa_8:16-18. God likes to give recognition for service to Him and His leaders.