1 Chronicles 21:28

At that time, when David saw that the LORD had answered him at the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite, he offered sacrifices there.

Study Bible

At that time
This phrase situates the event within a specific historical context. It refers to a moment of divine intervention and revelation. The Hebrew word for "time" (עֵת, 'et) often signifies a significant or appointed moment. In the narrative of David's life, this was a pivotal time when God's mercy was evident, marking a transition from judgment to grace.

when David saw
The act of seeing here is not merely physical but spiritual. The Hebrew root רָאָה (ra'ah) implies perception and understanding. David's ability to see God's response is indicative of his spiritual insight and leadership. It underscores the importance of recognizing God's hand in our lives and responding appropriately.

that the LORD had answered him
The LORD's response is central to this verse. The Hebrew word for "answered" (עָנָה, 'anah) conveys a sense of reply or response, often in a favorable manner. This highlights the personal relationship between David and God, where prayer and divine response are integral. It reassures believers of God's attentiveness to sincere prayer.

at the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite
The threshing floor is a significant location, both physically and spiritually. Threshing floors were places of separation and purification, where grain was separated from chaff. Ornan, a Jebusite, represents the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan. This site later becomes the location for Solomon's Temple, symbolizing God's presence and worship.

he offered sacrifices there
David's response to God's answer is worship through sacrifice. The Hebrew word for "offered" (זָבַח, zabach) indicates a ritual act of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and grace. Sacrifices were central to Old Testament worship, symbolizing atonement and thanksgiving. David's actions demonstrate a heart of gratitude and obedience, setting an example for believers to respond to God's grace with worship and dedication.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who sinned by conducting a census of the people, leading to God's judgment. He is central to this passage as he seeks reconciliation with God.

2. The LORD
The God of Israel who responds to David's repentance and prayer, demonstrating His mercy and willingness to forgive.

3. Ornan the Jebusite
The owner of the threshing floor where David offers sacrifices. His land becomes the site of significant worship and later the location of the Temple.

4. Threshing Floor of Ornan
The specific location where David builds an altar to the LORD. This site is significant as it becomes a place of divine encounter and future worship.

5. Sacrifices
The offerings made by David as an act of repentance and worship, signifying his restored relationship with God.

Teaching Points

Repentance and Restoration
David's actions demonstrate the importance of genuine repentance in restoring one's relationship with God. When we sin, we must turn back to God with a contrite heart.

Divine Mercy
God's response to David's repentance shows His readiness to forgive. This encourages believers to approach God with confidence in His mercy.

Significance of Place in Worship
The threshing floor of Ornan becomes a sacred space, reminding us that God can transform ordinary places into sites of divine encounter.

Sacrificial Worship
David's offering of sacrifices highlights the importance of worship that costs us something, reflecting our devotion and gratitude to God.

Legacy of Faith
The site of David's altar becomes the location of the Temple, illustrating how acts of faith can have lasting impacts beyond our immediate circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to God's judgment in 1 Chronicles 21:28 inform our understanding of repentance and its role in our spiritual lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Ornan's threshing floor illustrate the concept of God using ordinary places for extraordinary purposes?

3. How can we apply the principle of sacrificial worship in our daily lives, and what might that look like practically?

4. What connections can we draw between David's sacrifices and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

5. How does the transformation of Ornan's threshing floor into the site of the Temple encourage us to consider the legacy of our faith and actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional details about David's census, the resulting plague, and the purchase of Ornan's threshing floor.

Genesis 22
The concept of sacrifice and obedience is echoed in Abraham's willingness to offer Isaac, highlighting themes of faith and divine provision.

1 Kings 8
Solomon's dedication of the Temple on the same site underscores the lasting significance of this location for Israel's worship.

Hebrews 9
The New Testament discussion of Christ's ultimate sacrifice connects to the theme of atonement and reconciliation with God.