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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 28 verses 1–10
A great deal of service David had done in his day, had served his generation according to the will of God, Act 13:36. But now the time draws night that he must die, and, as a type of the Son of David, the nearer he comes to his end the more busy he is, and does his work with all his might. He is now a little recovered from the indisposition mentioned Kg1 1:1, when they covered him with clothes, and he got no heat: but was cure is there for old age? He therefore improves his recovery, as giving him an opportunity of doing God and his country a little more service.
I. He summoned all the great men to attend him, that he might take leave of them all together, Ch1 28:1. Thus Moses did (Deu 31:28), and Joshua, Jos 23:2; Jos 24:1. David would not declare the settlement of the crown but in the presence, and to the satisfaction, of those that were the representatives of the people.
II. He addressed them with a great deal of respect and tenderness. He not only exerted himself to rise from his bed, to give them the meeting (the occasion putting new spirits into him), but he rose out of his chair, and stood up upon his feet (Ch1 28:2), in reverence to God whose will he was to declare, and in reverence to this solemn assembly of the Israel of God, as if he looked upon himself, though major singulis - greater than any individual among them, yet minor universis - less than the whole of them together. His age and infirmities, as well as his dignity, might well have allowed him to keep his seat; but he would show that he was indeed humbled for the pride of his heart both in the numbers of his people and his dominion over them. It had been too much his pleasure that they were all his servants (Ch1 21:3), but now he calls them his brethren, whom he loved, his people, whom he took care of, not his servants, whom he had command of: Hear me, my brethren, and my people. It becomes superiors thus to speak with affection and condescension even to their inferiors; they will not be the less honoured for it, but the more beloved. Thus he engages their attention to what he was about to say.
III. He declared the purpose he had formed to build a temple for God, and God's disallowing that purpose, Ch1 28:2, Ch1 28:3. This he had signified to Solomon before, Ch1 22:7, Ch1 22:8. A house of rest for the ark is here said to be a house of rest for the footstool of our God; for heaven is his throne of glory; the earth, and the most magnificent temples that can be built upon it, are but his footstool: so much difference is there between the manifestations of the divine glory in the upper and lower world. Angels surround his throne, Isa 6:1. We poor worms do but worship at his footstool Psa 99:5; Psa 132:7. As an evidence of the sincerity of his purpose to build the temple, he tells them that he had made ready for it, but that God would not suffer him to proceed because he had appointed other work for him to do, which was enough for one man, namely, the managing of the wars of Israel. He must serve the public with the sword; another must do it with the line and plummet. Times of rest are building times, Act 9:31.
IV. He produced his own title first, and then Solomon's, to the crown; both were undoubtedly jure divino - divine. They could make out such a title as no monarch on earth can; the Lord God of Israel chose them both immediately, by prophecy, not providence, Ch1 28:4, Ch1 28:5. No right of primogeniture is pretended. Detur digniori, non seniori - It went by worth, not by age. 1. Judah was not the eldest son of Jacob, yet God chose that tribe to be the ruling tribe; Jacob entailed the sceptre upon it, Gen 49:10. 2. It does not appear that the family of Jesse was the senior house of that tribe; from Judah it is certain that it was not, for Shelah was before Pharez; whether from Nahshon and Salmon is not certain. Ram, the father of Nahshon, had a elder brother, Ch1 2:9. Perhaps so had Boaz, Obed, and Jesse. Yet "God chose the house of my father." 3. David was the youngest son of Jesse, yet God liked him to make him king; so it seemed good unto him. God takes whom he likes, and likes whom he makes like himself, as he did David, a man after his own heart. 4. Solomon was one of the youngest sons of David, and yet God chose him to sit upon the throne, because he was the likeliest of them all to build the temple, the wisest and best inclined.
V. He opened to them God's gracious purposes concerning Solomon (Ch1 28:6, Ch1 28:7): I have chosen him to be my son. Thus he declares the decree, that the Lord had said to Solomon, as a type of Christ, Thou art my son (Psa 2:7), the son of my love; for he was called Jedidiah, because the Lord loved him, and Christ is his beloved Son. Of him God said, as a figure of him that was to come, 1. He shall build my house. Christ is both the founder and the foundation of the gospel temple. 2. I will establish his kingdom for ever. This must have its accomplishment in the kingdom of the Messiah, which shall continue in his hands through all the ages of time (Isa 9:7; Luk 1:33) and shall then be delivered up to God, even the Father, yet perhaps to be delivered back to the Redeemer for ever. As to Solomon, this promise of the establishment of his kingdom is here made conditional: If he be constant to do my commandments, as at this day. Solomon was now very towardly and good: "If he continue so, his kingdom shall continue, otherwise not." Note, If we be constant to our duty, then, and not otherwise, we may expect the continuance of God's favour. Let those that are well taught, and begin well, take notice of this - if they be constant, they are happy; perseverance wears the crown, though it wins it not.
VI. He charged them to adhere stedfastly to God and their duty, Ch1 28:8. Observe, 1. The matter for this charge: Keep, and seek for all the commandments of the Lord your God. The Lord was their God; his commandments must be their rule; they must have respect to them all, must make conscience of keeping them, and, in order thereunto, must seek for them, that is, must be inquisitive concerning their duty, search the scriptures, take advice, seek the law at the mouth of those whose lips were to keep this knowledge, and pray to God to teach and direct them. God's commandments will not be kept without great care. 2. The solemnity of it. He charged them in the sight of all Israel, who would all have notice of this public charge, and in the audience of their God. "God is witness, and this congregation is witness, that they have good counsel given them, and fair warning; if they do not take it, it is their fault, and God and man will be witnesses against them." See Ti1 5:21; Ti2 4:1. Those that profess religion, as they tender the favour of God and their reputation with men, must be faithful to their profession. 3. The motive to observe this charge. It was the way to be happy, to have the peaceable possession of this good land themselves and to preserve the entail of it upon their children.
VII. He concluded with a charge to Solomon himself, Ch1 28:9, Ch1 28:10. He was much concerned that Solomon should be religious. He was to be a great man, but he must not think religion below him - a wise man, and this would be his wisdom. Observe,
1.The charge he gives him. He must look upon God and the God of his father, his good father, who had devoted him to God and educated him for God. He was born in God's house and therefore bound in duty to be his, brought up in his house and therefore bound in gratitude. Thy own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not. He must know God and serve him. We cannot serve God aright if we do not know him; and in vain do we know him if we do not serve him, serve him with heart and mind. We make nothing of religion if we do not mind it, and make heart-work of it. Serve him with a perfect, that is, an upright heart (for sincerity is our gospel perfection), and with a willing mind, from a principle of love, and as a willing people, cheerfully and with pleasure.
2.The arguments to enforce this charge.
(1.)Two arguments of general inducement: - [1.] That the secrets of our souls are open before God; he searches all hearts, even the hearts of kings, which to men are unsearchable, Pro 25:3. We must therefore be sincere, because, if we deal deceitfully, God sees it, and cannot be imposed upon; we must therefore employ our thoughts, and engage them in God's service, because he fully understands all the imaginations of them, both good and bad. [2.] That we are happy or miserable here, and for ever, according as we do, or do not, serve God. If we seek him diligently, he will be found of us, and that is enough to make us happy, Heb 11:6. If we forsake him, desert his service and turn from following him, he will cast us off for ever, and that is enough to make us miserable. Note, God never casts any off till they have first cast him off. Here is,
(2.)One argument peculiar to Solomon (Ch1 28:10): "Thou art to build a house for the sanctuary; therefore seek and serve God, that that work may be done from a good principle, in a right manner, and may be accepted."
3.The means prescribed in order hereunto, and they are prescribed to us all. (1.) Caution: Take heed; beware of every thing that looks like, or leads to, that which is evil. (2.) Courage: Be strong, and do it. We cannot do our work as we should unless we put on resolution, and fetch in strength from divine grace.
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SUMMARY
In 1 Chronicles 28:10, King David delivers a solemn and direct charge to his son, Solomon, regarding the monumental and divinely appointed task of constructing the Temple in Jerusalem. This pivotal verse encapsulates profound themes of divine election, the weighty responsibility that accompanies a sacred calling, and the imperative for courage, strength, and diligent action in fulfilling God's purposes. It serves as a foundational exhortation for Solomon's reign, setting the spiritual and practical tone for the most significant building project in Israel's history, a physical testament to God's desire to dwell among His people.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically positioned within David's final public address to his son Solomon and the assembled leaders of Israel, meticulously recorded in 1 Chronicles 28. Having devoted years to meticulously preparing vast quantities of materials—gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and precious stones—and having received the precise architectural plans for the Temple "by the hand of the LORD" (1 Chronicles 28:19), David now formally transfers this sacred commission to his chosen successor. The narrative preceding this chapter details David's fervent, long-held desire to build a permanent dwelling for the Ark of the Covenant (1 Chronicles 17:1), God's subsequent revelation through the prophet Nathan that Solomon, a man of peace, would be the builder (1 Chronicles 22:8), and David's extensive, almost obsessive, preparations for the project. The immediate verses surrounding 1 Chronicles 28:10, particularly 1 Chronicles 28:9-11, underscore the deeply personal and spiritual nature of the task, emphasizing the absolute necessity of a wholehearted and willing commitment to God.
Historical & Cultural Context: The period marked by 1 Chronicles 28:10 signifies a momentous transition in Israelite history. It moves from the era of the warrior-king David, who successfully consolidated the kingdom and secured its borders, to the reign of his son Solomon, which would be characterized by unparalleled peace, immense prosperity, and profound wisdom. The construction of a permanent Temple was not merely a grand architectural undertaking; it represented a pivotal shift from the portable Tabernacle, which had served as the center of Israelite worship since the Exodus. This magnificent structure was destined to become the central place of worship, the symbolic dwelling place of Yahweh among His people, and the very heart of Israel's national and religious identity. The Temple's construction would irrevocably solidify Jerusalem as the spiritual and political capital, serving as a tangible fulfillment of God's covenant promise to establish David's dynasty and a lasting kingdom (2 Samuel 7:12-13). Culturally, such a monumental project demanded not only immense national effort and skilled craftsmanship but also a deep reverence for the sacred and an understanding of the profound theological implications of building a house for God.
Key Themes: 1 Chronicles 28:10 powerfully articulates several enduring theological and narrative themes. Firstly, Divine Election and Calling is central, highlighted by David's unequivocal declaration that "the LORD hath chosen thee." This emphasizes that Solomon's role was not a mere accident of birth or political inheritance but a specific, sovereign appointment by God for a sacred purpose, echoing God's consistent choice of individuals throughout salvation history, from Abraham to the prophets. Secondly, the theme of Solemn Responsibility is profoundly evident in the task "to build an house for the sanctuary." This was a national and spiritual undertaking of unparalleled significance, demanding unwavering dedication, meticulous adherence to divine specifications, and a profound sense of stewardship. It underscores the immense weight of being entrusted with God's sacred work. Finally, the concluding command "be strong, and do [it]" introduces the crucial theme of Courage and Diligence in Obedience. This powerful exhortation, frequently found throughout the biblical narrative when God calls individuals to challenging tasks (e.g., God's charge to Joshua in Joshua 1:6-9), reminds Solomon, and by extension all believers, that divine backing enables human effort. It implies not only physical and mental fortitude but also moral and spiritual resilience to overcome obstacles and faithfully complete the assigned work, trusting in God's empowering presence.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful literary devices that amplify its message. Direct Address is prominently used, as David speaks personally and directly to Solomon, lending a tone of intimate instruction yet also authoritative command. The pervasive use of Exhortation is central, with the commanding phrases "Take heed now" and "be strong, and do [it]" serving as strong imperatives that convey urgency, the weight of the commission, and the expectation of obedience. The explicit declaration "for the LORD hath chosen thee" functions as a Divine Mandate, grounding Solomon's monumental task not in human ambition or dynastic succession but in God's sovereign will, thereby elevating its significance and ensuring its ultimate success. Furthermore, the phrase "house for the sanctuary" employs Symbolism, where the physical structure represents God's holy dwelling place, the focal point of Israel's covenant relationship with Him, and the tangible expression of His presence among His people. The brevity, directness, and declarative nature of the final command, "be strong, and do [it]," create a powerful sense of Climax and Resolution, encapsulating the essence of David's charge in a memorable, actionable, and profoundly impactful directive.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 28:10 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of divine calling and the corresponding human responsibility. It powerfully illustrates that God's sovereign election of individuals is always for a specific, purposeful role within His overarching redemptive plan. Solomon's divinely appointed task to build the Temple, a physical manifestation of God's presence among His people, underscores the enduring biblical theme of God's desire to dwell in intimate relationship with humanity. This verse also highlights the foundational principle that God invariably equips those whom He calls, and His commands are always accompanied by His enabling power. The exhortation to "be strong, and do it" is not a call to self-reliance but to courageous obedience, a summons to trust implicitly in God's faithfulness to bring His purposes to fruition through human instruments. It speaks profoundly to the continuity of God's work across generations, as David, having prepared diligently, passes the torch of a divine vision and sacred responsibility to his son.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While Solomon's monumental task of building the Temple was unique in its scope and historical significance, the timeless principles embedded in 1 Chronicles 28:10 resonate deeply with believers in every age. Each of us, as part of God's kingdom and His new covenant people, is "chosen" and called by God for specific purposes within our families, communities, vocations, and ministries. This verse challenges us to "take heed" to the unique assignments and divine promptings God has placed before us, urging us to discern His will with careful attention, spiritual sensitivity, and a humble heart. It calls us to embrace our responsibilities with the profound understanding that our work, however seemingly small or mundane, contributes significantly to God's larger, eternal plan. When faced with daunting spiritual, relational, or practical challenges that feel overwhelming, the divine command "be strong, and do it" serves as a powerful, empowering reminder that our true strength comes not from our own limited abilities or resources, but from the Lord who calls, empowers, and sustains us. It encourages us to act with courage, diligence, unwavering faith, and joyful obedience, knowing that God's enablement unfailingly accompanies His divine mandate. Our lives, as living temples of the Holy Spirit, are meant to be built for His glory, reflecting His presence, character, and redemptive work in a broken world.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why didn't David build the Temple himself, since he desired to?
Answer: Although King David harbored a deep and fervent desire to build a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and the worship of the Lord, God revealed through the prophet Nathan that it would not be David who would undertake this sacred task. As recorded in 1 Chronicles 22:8, God stated that David was a "man of war" and had "shed much blood," making him unsuitable for building a house for the sanctuary, which was meant to be a symbol of peace and divine presence. Instead, God sovereignly chose David's son, Solomon, whose name means "peace," to build the Temple during a time of peace and prosperity for Israel. This divine choice underscores God's sovereign plan, His specific qualifications for those who carry out His work, and the symbolic nature of the Temple as a place of peace.
What is the significance of the phrase "be strong, and do it"?
Answer: The phrase "be strong, and do [it]" is a powerful and frequently recurring biblical exhortation, often found when God calls individuals to challenging and significant tasks. It is not merely a command for physical prowess but a profound call to moral, spiritual, and mental fortitude and unwavering resolve. In the context of 1 Chronicles 28:10, David charges Solomon to approach the monumental task of building the Temple with courage, unwavering resolve, and diligent, persistent effort. It implies that while the task is immense and human capabilities are limited, God's election of Solomon ensures divine enablement and provision. This echoes similar commands given to Joshua upon leading Israel into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:7-9) and to the Israelites before entering Canaan (Deuteronomy 31:6). Ultimately, it is a timeless reminder that God's empowering presence enables His servants to accomplish what He has called them to do, requiring their faithful obedience and courageous action.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 28:10 speaks directly to Solomon's commission to build the earthly Temple, its profound themes find their ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Solomon's divinely chosen role as the builder of God's physical dwelling foreshadows Christ as the true and ultimate builder of God's spiritual house, the Church (Matthew 16:18). Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking not of a stone edifice but of the temple of His own body (John 2:19-21). He is the foundational cornerstone upon whom all believers, as living stones, are being built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter 2:5). The wisdom and peace that characterized Solomon's reign, which enabled the Temple's construction, powerfully point to Christ, who is eternally the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) and the very embodiment of divine wisdom from God (1 Corinthians 1:30). The command to "be strong, and do it" is perfectly fulfilled in Christ's unwavering obedience to His Father's will, culminating in His triumphant cry from the cross, "It is finished" (John 19:30), having perfectly accomplished the ultimate work of salvation and building God's eternal dwelling place, which is His redeemed people.