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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 29:1–9. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
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.
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Summary
1 Chronicles 29:5 encapsulates King David's pivotal appeal to the assembly of Israel as preparations for the Temple's construction reached a critical juncture. The verse skillfully weaves together the practical need for substantial material resources, specifically gold and silver, and the indispensable skilled labor of craftsmen, with a profound spiritual invitation. It culminates in a direct, rhetorical challenge: "And who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the LORD?" This question underscores David's conviction that God desires not merely obligatory contributions, but a free-will offering of both tangible assets and consecrated hearts, expressed through devoted service.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed within King David's final public address to the leaders and congregation of Israel, as chronicled in 1 Chronicles 29. Having been divinely prevented from building the Temple himself due to his history of warfare, David dedicated years to meticulously gathering immense wealth and materials for the project (1 Chronicles 22:8 and 1 Chronicles 22:14). In the opening verses of the chapter, David sets an unparalleled example of personal generosity by presenting his own substantial contributions for the Temple. He then transitions to a powerful theological declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and ownership of all things (1 Chronicles 29:10-16). Verse 5, therefore, serves as a direct and poignant invitation, following David's personal sacrifice and his theological grounding of all giving in God's ultimate ownership, challenging the leaders and the people to join him in this grand spiritual endeavor with a willing heart.
Historical & Cultural Context
The construction of a national temple was a monumental undertaking in the ancient Near East, serving as the central hub of worship and a powerful symbol of the nation's deity and power. Such projects invariably demanded vast resources and highly specialized labor. In Israel, the concept of building a "house for the Lord" resonated deeply with the precedent of the Tabernacle, which was constructed through materials and labor contributed by those with willing hearts (Exodus 35:20-29). The explicit mention of "artificers" (skilled craftsmen) highlights the critical importance of specialized trades in ancient construction, where expertise in metallurgy, masonry, and carpentry was exceptionally valued. Unlike many ancient empires where grand building projects were often accomplished through forced labor or heavy taxation, David's appeal emphasizes voluntary, consecrated service. This approach aligns with the covenantal nature of Israel's relationship with Yahweh, where service to God is a joyful, free response rather than a coerced duty, underscoring the unique spiritual dimension of this national endeavor.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the broader narrative of 1 Chronicles. The rhetorical question, "who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the LORD?", forms the spiritual core of the verse. It profoundly emphasizes that God desires not merely obligated giving, but a free-will offering of both resources and personal dedication. This speaks to the essential posture of the heart in serving God, a theme consistently echoed throughout the Old Testament concerning offerings and service, notably in the construction of the Tabernacle where materials were brought by those with a "willing heart". While David had already set an extraordinary example of giving, he calls the people to emulate this generosity, reinforcing the fundamental understanding that all wealth originates from God and is to be used for His divine purposes. David's subsequent prayer in 1 Chronicles 29:14 explicitly states, "for all things come from You, and of Your own have we given You." The initial clauses of the verse detail the need for specific precious materials ("gold for [things] of gold, and the silver for [things] of silver") and the crucial role of "artificers" (skilled craftsmen). This highlights that all talents and resources, whether material wealth or human skill, are indispensable and can be sanctified for God's work, a principle seen earlier in the divine gifting of craftsmen like Bezalel and Oholiab for the Tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-6). The Temple project was a monumental undertaking that necessitated the collective effort and unified spirit of an entire nation. This verse serves as a powerful call to communal engagement, demonstrating the transformative power of community in fulfilling God's grand plans and fostering shared ownership in sacred endeavors.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term refers to a "fabricator of any material," encompassing a wide range of skilled craftsmen such as carpenters, masons, engravers, and smiths. Its inclusion highlights the practical necessity of specialized human skill in the construction of the Temple. It signifies that God's work requires not only raw materials but also the dedicated application of divinely gifted human abilities, transforming basic elements into works of beauty and sacred utility.
Derived from a root meaning "to impel," this verb signifies "to volunteer," "to offer freely," or "to present spontaneously." It emphasizes an uncoerced, internal motivation for giving and serving. In the context of offerings, it often denotes a "free-will offering," distinguishing it from mandatory contributions. This word is central to the verse's spiritual challenge, pointing to a generosity that flows from a noble and unburdened heart.
This verb means "to fill" or "to be full of," but in this context, it takes on the meaning of "to consecrate" or "to furnish fully." It implies setting something apart entirely for a sacred purpose, filling it with dedication. When combined with "service," it suggests a complete and devoted offering of one's work, time, and abilities, making them wholly available for the Lord's use.
While literally meaning "hand" (the open one), this primitive word is used in a vast array of applications, both literal and figurative. Here, in the phrase "consecrate his service," it refers to the "work" or "ministry" performed by one's hands, representing one's labor, effort, and active participation. Its connection to "hands of artificers" earlier in the verse subtly links the physical act of skilled labor with the broader concept of devoted, consecrated effort.
Verse Breakdown
"The gold for [things] of gold, and the silver for [things] of silver,"
This opening clause meticulously specifies the primary precious metals required for the Temple's construction and ornamentation. The repetition, "gold for [things] of gold" and "silver for [things] of silver," emphasizes the purity, specific application, and abundance of these high-value resources. It underscores the unparalleled grandeur and sacredness envisioned for God's dwelling place, indicating that these were not merely raw materials, but resources designated for specific, holy purposes, often for intricate vessels, fixtures, and decorative elements.
"and for all manner of work [to be made] by the hands of artificers."
This phrase expands the scope beyond raw materials to include the indispensable element of human skill and craftsmanship. "Artificers" refers to master craftsmen, skilled artisans, and engineers who would transform the raw gold, silver, and other materials into the intricate and beautiful components of the Temple. This highlights that both material wealth and human talent are essential for God's work, and that these skills, when offered to the Lord, are consecrated and used for His glory. It recognizes the divine gifting of abilities and their proper application in sacred service.
"And who [then] is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the LORD?"
This is the climactic rhetorical question, forming the spiritual core of the verse. Following the declaration of material and skilled labor needs, David shifts the focus from "what" is needed to "who" is willing to provide it, and more importantly, with what heart. The phrase "this day" injects urgency and immediacy into the call, inviting an immediate, personal response. The question is not about compulsion but about a voluntary, consecrated offering of oneself and one's resources to God, an act of devotion that springs from a willing and generous spirit. It is a profound invitation to participate in a sacred, national endeavor with a heart fully devoted to Yahweh.
Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 29:5 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is the Rhetorical Question: "And who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the LORD?" This question is not posed to elicit information but to provoke deep self-examination, challenge, and inspire a specific, immediate action. It creates a dramatic pause, inviting each listener to personally consider their commitment and response. Furthermore, there is a clear use of Juxtaposition, contrasting the tangible, material needs (gold, silver, skilled labor) with the intangible, spiritual requirement of a willing and consecrated heart. This highlights that while physical resources are necessary, the attitude and spirit behind the offering are paramount to God. The verse also functions as a powerful Call to Action, directly appealing to the assembly to participate in the Temple project, not out of obligation, but out of a consecrated desire to serve the Lord. The repetition of "gold for [things] of gold, and the silver for [things] of silver" serves as a form of Emphasis, underscoring the specific, precious, and abundant nature of the materials required for such a magnificent and holy undertaking.
Theological and Thematic Connections
1 Chronicles 29:5 resonates with a profound theological truth woven throughout Scripture: God's primary desire is for the heart and a willing spirit in service, not merely outward acts or material offerings. While the Temple project clearly required immense resources, David's challenge elevates the act of giving to an expression of worship and devotion. It teaches that true contribution to God's kingdom is characterized by a spirit of consecration—a setting apart of oneself and one's possessions for sacred use, motivated by love and gratitude rather than compulsion or a desire for recognition. This principle underscores God's sovereignty and our role as stewards, recognizing that all we have ultimately belongs to Him. Our "willing service" becomes a tangible manifestation of our faith and trust in the One who owns everything.
Reflection and Application
David's challenge in 1 Chronicles 29:5 remains profoundly relevant for believers today, transcending the specific context of Temple building to address the core of our relationship with God. It compels us to examine the posture of our hearts in all areas of service and giving. Are we merely fulfilling obligations, or are we offering our time, talents, and resources with a truly willing, consecrated spirit? God is not in need of our gifts in an absolute sense, for "all things come from You, and of Your own have we given You" (1 Chronicles 29:14). Rather, He graciously invites us to participate in His ongoing work in the world as an act of worship, a tangible demonstration of our love, and an expression of our stewardship. Just as gold, silver, and the hands of artificers were consecrated for the Temple, God still uses diverse gifts—from leadership and teaching to practical skills, hospitality, and humble service—when they are offered with a spirit of consecration. Our service, whether grand or small, should be characterized by a joyful, voluntary, and wholehearted spirit, recognizing that it is all "unto the LORD." This verse calls us to move beyond mere duty to delight in serving our magnificent God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did David ask for more contributions when he had already gathered so much wealth for the Temple?
David's appeal was not solely about meeting a material deficit. While immense resources were indeed needed for the Temple, David had already amassed an astonishing amount of gold, silver, and other materials (see 1 Chronicles 22:14). His primary motivation in 1 Chronicles 29:5 was to involve the entire community in this sacred endeavor. By inviting the people to contribute willingly, he fostered a profound sense of collective ownership, spiritual participation, and shared devotion to God's grand project. It was an unparalleled opportunity for the nation to express their faith, gratitude, and commitment to the Lord, demonstrating that the Temple was a communal act of worship, not merely a king's personal enterprise.
What is the significance of "artificers" in this verse, and how does it relate to our service today?
The mention of "artificers" (skilled craftsmen) is highly significant because it highlights that God's work requires not only material resources but also human skill, talent, and expertise. These individuals possessed specialized knowledge in working with precious metals and other materials, essential for the intricate construction and ornamentation of the Temple. This demonstrates that all gifts and abilities, whether intellectual, artistic, practical, or administrative, are valuable in God's kingdom. Today, this principle remains profoundly true: God uses a diverse range of talents—from teaching and leadership to administration, technology, music, and practical service—when they are offered with a willing and consecrated heart for His purposes. It reminds us that our unique skills are meant to be consecrated for His glory, contributing to the building of His spiritual kingdom.
Does this verse imply that God needs our contributions to accomplish His plans?
No, this verse does not imply that God is dependent on human contributions to fulfill His plans. David himself explicitly clarifies this point in his prayer immediately following the people's generous response: "But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of You, and of Your own have we given You" (1 Chronicles 29:14). God is utterly sovereign and self-sufficient; He owns everything and needs nothing from us. Instead, His invitation to contribute is an act of profound grace, providing us with a privileged opportunity to express our worship, devotion, and gratitude. Our willing participation in His work is a transformative experience that aligns our hearts with His, allowing us to partner in His redemptive purposes in the world, not out of necessity for Him, but out of love for us.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
1 Chronicles 29:5, with its earnest call for willing and consecrated service for the building of God's dwelling place, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the New Covenant. David's challenge to offer "gold for [things] of gold, and the silver for [things] of silver, and for all manner of work [to be made] by the hands of artificers" powerfully foreshadows the ultimate offering of the Son of God himself. Christ, the true and perfect "artificer" of salvation, willingly laid down His life, offering His perfect body as the ultimate sacrifice, "a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (Ephesians 5:2). His entire incarnate life, culminating in His atoning death and resurrection, was a consecrated service, not compelled but freely given, embodying the very essence of the "willing heart" David sought. Under the New Covenant, believers are no longer called to build a physical temple, for Christ declared that He would rebuild the temple of His body in three days (John 2:19-21). Now, the church, comprised of all believers, is the "temple of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and a "spiritual house" built of "living stones" (1 Peter 2:5). Therefore, the call to "consecrate his service this day unto the LORD" transforms into the New Testament imperative for believers to offer their entire lives—their bodies, talents, resources, and time—as "living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1). Our willing service is a grateful response to Christ's ultimate self-giving, empowered by the indwelling Spirit, and is expressed in acts of worship, love for one another, and mission to the world, all contributing to the building up of God's spiritual temple for His eternal glory.