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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Chronicles 22:6–16. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Though Solomon was young and tender, he was capable of receiving instructions, which his father accordingly gave him, concerning the work for which he was designed. When David came to the throne he had many things to do, for the foundations were all out of course; but Solomon had only one thing in charge, and that was to build a house for the Lord God of Israel, Ch1 22:6. Now,
I.David tells him why he did not do it himself.
It was in his mind to do it (Ch1 22:7), but God forbade him, because he had shed much blood, Ch1 22:8. Some think this refers to the blood of Uriah, which fastened such a reproach upon him as rendered him unworthy the honour of building the temple: but that honour was forbidden him before he had shed that blood; therefore it must be meant, as it is here explained, of the blood he shed in his wars (for he had been a man of war from his youth), which, though shed very justly and honourably in the service of God and Israel, yet made him unfit to be employed in this service, or rather less fit than another that had never been called to such bloody work. God, by assigning this as the reason of laying David aside from this work, showed how precious human life is to him, and intended a type of him who should build the gospel temple, not by destroying men's lives, but by saving them, Luk 9:56.
II.He gives him the reason why he imposed this task upon him.
1.Because God had designed him for it, nominated him as the man that should do it: A son shall be born to thee, that shall be called Solomon, and he shall build a house for my name, Ch1 22:9, Ch1 22:10. Nothing is more powerful to engage us to any service for God, and encourage us in it, than to know that hereunto we are appointed.
2.Because he would have leisure and opportunity to do it. He should be a man of rest, and therefore should not have his time, or thoughts, or wealth, diverted from this business. He should have rest from his enemies abroad (none of them should invade or threaten him, or give him provocation), and he should have peace and quietness at home; and therefore let him build the house. Note, Where God gives rest he expects work.
3.Because God had promised to establish his kingdom. Let this encourage him to honour God, that God had honour in store for him; let him build up God's house, and God will build up his throne. Note, God's gracious promises should quicken and invigorate our religious service.
III.He delivers him an account of the vast preparations he had made for this building (Ch1 22:14), not in a way of pride and vain glory (he speaks of it as a poor thing - I have, in my poverty, prepared, margin), but as an encouragement to Solomon to engage cheerfully in the work, for which so solid a foundation was laid. The treasure here mentioned of the 100,000 talents of gold, and 1,000,000 talents of silver, amounts to such an incredible sum that most interpreters either allow an error in the copy or think the talent here signifies no more than a plate or piece: ingots we call them. I am inclined to suppose that a certain number is here put for an uncertain, because it is said (Ch1 22:16) that of the gold and silver, as well as of the brass and iron, there was no number, and that David here includes all the dedicated things (Ch1 18:11) which he designed for the house of the Lord, that is, not only for the building of it, but for the treasure of it; and putting all together, it might come pretty near what is here spoken of. Hundreds and thousands are numbers which we often use to express that which is very much, when yet we would not be understood strictly.
IV.He charges them to keep God's commandments and to take heed to his duty in every thing, Ch1 22:13.
He must not think by building the temple to purchase a dispensation to sin; no, on the contrary, his doing that would not be accepted, nor accounted of, if he did not take heed to fulfil the statutes which the Lord charged Moses with, Ch1 22:13. Though he was to be king of Israel, he must always remember that he was a subject to the God of Israel.
V.He encourages him to go about this great work, and to go on in it (Ch1 22:13):
"Be strong, and of good courage, Though it is a vast undertaking, thou needest not fear coming under the reproach of the foolish builder, who began to build and was not able to finish it; it is God's work, and it shall come to perfection. Dread not, nor be dismayed." In our spiritual work, as well as in our spiritual warfare, we have need of courage and resolution.
VI.He quickens him not to rest in the preparations he had made, but to add thereto, Ch1 22:14.
Those that enter into the labours of others, and build upon their advantages, must still be improving.
VII.He prays for him:
The Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel, Ch1 22:12. Whatever charge we have, if we see God giving us the charge and calling us to it, we may hope he will give us wisdom for the discharge of it. Perhaps Solomon had an eye to this prayer of his father for him, in the prayer he offered for himself: Lord, give me a wise and understanding heart. He concludes (Ch1 22:16), Up, and be doing, and the Lord be with thee. Hope of God's presence must not slacken our endeavours. Though the Lord be with us, we must rise and be doing, and, if we do this, we have reason to believe he is and will be with us. Work out your salvation, and God will work in you.
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Summary
1 Chronicles 22:16 encapsulates King David's pivotal and final charge to his son Solomon regarding the monumental task of constructing the Temple in Jerusalem. Having been divinely prohibited from building the Temple himself, David meticulously prepared an immeasurable quantity of materials—gold, silver, bronze, and iron—and laid out the architectural plans. This verse serves as a powerful exhortation, transitioning from the assurance of boundless divine provision to the imperative for Solomon to "arise and be doing," concluding with the crucial promise of God's sustaining presence and active partnership in the work.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically positioned within David's final instructions to Solomon and the leaders of Israel, specifically detailed in 1 Chronicles 22. The chapter commences with David designating the precise site for the Temple (verse 1) and then dedicates considerable attention to his tireless efforts in amassing an extraordinary amount of materials (verses 2-5). Following this, David formally charges Solomon with the sacred task, explaining God's prohibition against his own construction of the Temple due to his history of warfare and the divine promise that Solomon, a man of peace, would complete it (verses 6-10). David then provides a fervent blessing and exhortation, urging Solomon to be strong and courageous in the undertaking (verses 11-13). Verse 14 meticulously details the specific, immense quantities of gold, silver, and other materials David has prepared, setting the immediate stage for verse 16's declaration of their immeasurable abundance. Thus, verse 16 acts as a critical pivot, seamlessly transitioning from the what (the overwhelming provision of materials) to the how (the urgent call to action) and the who (the indispensable divine presence enabling the work).
Historical & Cultural Context
The construction of a central temple was an unparalleled event in ancient Israel, serving as the physical embodiment of national identity, religious unity, and the tangible dwelling place of God among His people. Prior to this, the portable Tabernacle had served as the sanctuary. The Temple's construction under Solomon marked a new, settled era of worship and definitively solidified Jerusalem's status as the spiritual and political capital. In the ancient Near East, kings were typically responsible for initiating and overseeing grand building projects, especially temples, which demonstrated their piety, power, and solidified their reign. David's meticulous preparation, even though he was divinely prevented from building, showcased his profound devotion, foresight, and selfless commitment, ensuring the new king, Solomon, had all necessary resources readily available. The specific mention of "gold, silver, brass, and iron" reflects the primary and most valuable materials used in large-scale sacred and royal construction and ornamentation of the era, signifying immense wealth, unparalleled generosity, and royal patronage dedicated to God's glory.
Key Themes
1 Chronicles 22:16 powerfully encapsulates several foundational themes prevalent throughout the books of Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights Divine Provision, emphasizing that God's work is never hindered by a lack of resources, as He abundantly supplies all that is needed for His purposes. David's diligent preparations are a tangible expression of this truth, demonstrating God's faithfulness to equip those He calls. Secondly, the verse underscores the Call to Action and Diligence, an imperative for human responsibility in partnership with divine will. Solomon is not merely to passively receive, but to "arise and be doing," reflecting the profound biblical principle that faith is active and requires diligent effort and obedience, as powerfully articulated in James 2:17. Finally, and perhaps most crucially, it affirms Divine Presence and Empowerment. The assurance "the LORD be with thee" is a foundational and recurring promise throughout Scripture, reminding leaders like Joshua (see Joshua 1:9) and all believers that success in God's work hinges not on human strength or ingenuity alone, but on His enabling, guiding, and sustaining presence.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the root sâphar (to count), this word refers to a count, a definite or indefinite quantity. In the phrase "no number," it conveys an immeasurable, boundless, or innumerable quantity. This powerful hyperbole emphasizes the vastness of the materials David had amassed, signifying an abundance that surpasses human calculation and ensures that lack of resources would not be an impediment to the Temple's construction. It speaks to comprehensive and overflowing divine provision.
This is a strong, active imperative verb meaning "to rise," "to stand up," or "to be established." It is frequently used in the Bible as a decisive call to action, readiness, or to initiate a significant undertaking. In this context, it is a direct command to Solomon to move from any state of rest, contemplation, or hesitation to one of immediate and active engagement. It implies a posture of determination and readiness to commence the monumental work.
This is a primitive root verb meaning "to do," "to make," "to accomplish," or "to perform" in the broadest sense. Paired with "Arise," it forms a comprehensive and urgent command for active, diligent engagement. It emphasizes the practical execution of the task, moving beyond mere planning or preparation to actual construction and sustained effort. It signifies the necessity of commitment and perseverance to bring the vision to fruition.
Verse Breakdown
"Of the gold, the silver, and the brass, and the iron, [there is] no number."
This opening clause establishes the extraordinary material provision for the Temple's construction. By meticulously listing the primary construction and decorative metals, David emphasizes the comprehensive and overwhelming abundance of resources. The phrase "no number" highlights that the quantity is not just large, but immeasurable, ensuring Solomon understands that a lack of materials will not, under any circumstances, be an impediment to the sacred work. This serves as a powerful reassurance to Solomon and a testament to David's diligent preparation, ultimately reflecting God's ultimate and boundless supply.
"Arise [therefore], and be doing,"
This is a direct, urgent, and twofold imperative command from David to Solomon. "Arise" calls Solomon to a posture of readiness and initiation, urging him to shake off any hesitation, fear, or passivity and to stand up to the task. "And be doing" (or "and do") then mandates active, diligent, and sustained engagement in the work. The implied "therefore" connects this imperative directly to the preceding assurance of abundant provision, suggesting that because the resources are limitless, there is no excuse for delay; immediate and persistent action is now required.
"and the LORD be with thee."
This concluding phrase is a profound promise of divine presence, active support, and empowering partnership. It is not merely a wish or a hopeful blessing, but a declaration of God's unwavering commitment to partner with Solomon in this sacred and daunting task. This assurance is absolutely crucial for such an immense undertaking, reminding Solomon that his ultimate success and the completion of the Temple will depend not on his own strength, wisdom, or resources alone, but on the enabling, guiding, and sustaining presence of God. It transforms the immense challenge into a divinely enabled and guaranteed mission.
Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 22:16 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. The initial listing of materials ("gold, the silver, and the brass, and the iron") functions as a Merism, representing the totality and comprehensive nature of the vast resources prepared for the Temple. The declaration "no number" is a clear example of Hyperbole, underscoring the immeasurable abundance and divine provision, creating a vivid sense of overwhelming plenty that removes any doubt about material sufficiency. The phrases "Arise" and "be doing" are powerful Imperatives, direct and authoritative commands that convey urgency, the necessity of immediate action, and sustained diligence. The verse as a whole serves as a profound Exhortation, a formal and earnest encouragement from David to Solomon, meticulously designed to inspire courage, commitment, and confidence in the face of a daunting task. Finally, the concluding promise "and the LORD be with thee" acts as a profound Assurance, providing divine comfort, guaranteeing success, and emphasizing God's active, enabling partnership in the sacred work.
Theological and Thematic Connections
1 Chronicles 22:16 encapsulates a profound and enduring theological truth: God's call to action is always accompanied by His provision and His empowering presence. This verse teaches that when God commissions a work, He ensures that the necessary resources are not only available but often superabundant, frequently channeled through the diligent efforts and faithful stewardship of His people. It beautifully illustrates the essential partnership between divine sovereignty and human responsibility: God provides the means, the vision, and the promise of His presence, but humanity is unequivocally called to "arise and be doing." This dynamic ensures that while we are active, diligent participants in God's kingdom work, the ultimate success, glory, and credit belong solely to God, who empowers, sustains, and brings to fruition every righteous endeavor. This principle extends far beyond grand building projects to every aspect of serving God's purposes in our lives and the world.
Reflection and Application
For believers today, 1 Chronicles 22:16 offers timeless encouragement and a clear blueprint for engaging in God's work, whether in personal discipleship, local church ministry, or broader societal impact. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is the ultimate provider, and when He calls us to a task, He will equip us with all the necessary resources—spiritual gifts, material provisions, wisdom, strength, and opportunities. This profound truth should banish procrastination, self-doubt, and fear, replacing them with confidence, diligence, and joyful obedience. Just as Solomon was charged to "arise and be doing" with the unwavering assurance of God's presence, we too are called to active obedience and diligent effort, knowing that our endeavors are never in vain when undertaken in partnership with the Lord. This verse challenges us to prayerfully discern the "Temple" God is calling us to build in our lives, families, churches, and communities, and then to step out in faith, courageously trusting in His immeasurable provision and unfailing, empowering presence.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of David preparing the materials but not building the Temple himself?
David's inability to build the Temple, as clearly stated in 1 Chronicles 22:8, was due to his extensive involvement in warfare, which made him a "man of blood." This highlights God's desire for His sacred house to be built by a man of peace, Solomon, whose name itself means "peace." David's meticulous and exhaustive preparation, despite being divinely prevented from being the actual builder, profoundly demonstrates his deep devotion, unwavering obedience to God's will, and selfless commitment to the future of God's people and His kingdom. It also powerfully underscores the continuity of God's divine plan across generations and the crucial importance of laying a strong, faithful foundation for future work. His actions exemplify exemplary stewardship, humble submission to divine decree, and a singular focus on God's glory above any personal ambition or recognition.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 1 Chronicles 22:16 speaks directly to the building of a magnificent physical Temple, its underlying principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. Jesus Christ is the ultimate and true builder of God's spiritual Temple, which is His Church, composed of all believers. This truth is powerfully foreshadowed in John 2:19-21, where Jesus declares, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," explicitly referring to the temple of His body. Just as David painstakingly provided immeasurable material resources for Solomon, Christ, through His perfect atoning sacrifice on the cross and His glorious resurrection, has provided boundless spiritual resources—His righteousness, the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life—for His disciples to build His kingdom. He commands His followers to "arise and be doing" through the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20, empowering them with "all authority in heaven and on earth" and sending them to make disciples of all nations. Crucially, this divine command is accompanied by the ultimate, perpetual assurance: "and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is the tangible manifestation of this promise, providing the indwelling power and active presence necessary for believers to carry out Christ's work, ensuring that God's spiritual house is built not by human might or power, but by His Spirit (Acts 1:8). Thus, in Christ, we find the ultimate provision, the definitive call to action, and the perpetual, empowering presence of God, enabling us to participate in the building of His eternal kingdom.