1 Chronicles 21:15

Then God sent an angel to destroy Jerusalem, but as the angel was doing so, the LORD saw it and relented from the calamity, and He said to the angel who was destroying the people, "Enough! Withdraw your hand now!" At that time the angel of the LORD was standing by the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.

Study Bible

Then God sent an angel
The phrase "Then God sent an angel" indicates divine intervention. In Hebrew, the word for angel is "mal'ak," which means messenger. Angels are often depicted as God's agents executing His will. This highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to use supernatural means to accomplish His purposes. The sending of an angel signifies the seriousness of the situation and the direct involvement of God in the affairs of men.

to destroy Jerusalem
The phrase "to destroy Jerusalem" underscores the severity of the judgment that was to befall the city. Historically, Jerusalem was the center of worship and the heart of Israel. The potential destruction of Jerusalem signifies a profound moment of divine judgment, reflecting the consequences of sin and disobedience. It serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the seriousness with which He views sin.

But as the angel was about to destroy it
This phrase introduces a moment of divine mercy. The Hebrew word for "about" suggests an imminent action, indicating that the destruction was near completion. This moment captures the tension between justice and mercy, illustrating that while God is just, He is also compassionate and willing to relent when there is repentance or intercession.

the LORD saw it and relented from the calamity
The phrase "the LORD saw it and relented from the calamity" reveals God's compassion and willingness to show mercy. The Hebrew word for "relented" is "nacham," which can mean to be moved to pity or to have compassion. This demonstrates that God is not unfeeling or distant; He is deeply involved and responsive to the plight of His people. It also highlights the power of intercession and repentance in altering the course of divine judgment.

He said to the angel who was destroying the people
This phrase shows God's direct communication with His angelic messenger. The specificity of "the angel who was destroying the people" emphasizes the role of the angel as an executor of divine judgment. It also illustrates the order and authority within the heavenly realm, where angels act under God's command.

'Enough! Withdraw your hand now!'
The command "Enough! Withdraw your hand now!" is a powerful declaration of God's authority to halt judgment. The word "Enough" signifies a limit to the destruction, showing that God is in control and that His mercy can override His judgment. This moment is a profound testament to God's grace, illustrating that He is willing to stop the consequences of sin when there is a turning point.

At that time the angel of the LORD was standing by the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite
The location "the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite" is significant both historically and theologically. Threshing floors were places of separation and judgment, where wheat was separated from chaff. This setting symbolizes a place of decision and divine encounter. Araunah, a Jebusite, represents the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan, foreshadowing the future temple site where all nations would come to worship. This location later becomes the site of Solomon's Temple, marking it as a place of mercy and divine presence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The sovereign Lord who commands the angel and shows mercy by relenting from the destruction.

2. Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger sent to execute judgment on Jerusalem but stopped by God's command.

3. Jerusalem
The city under threat of destruction due to David's sin of conducting a census.

4. David
The king of Israel who sinned by ordering a census, leading to God's judgment.

5. Araunah the Jebusite
The owner of the threshing floor where the angel of the LORD was seen, which later becomes the site for David's altar.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Mercy
God is in control of all events, including judgment, but His mercy triumphs over judgment. We should trust in His sovereign will and seek His mercy in times of trouble.

The Role of Intercession
Just as God relented from destroying Jerusalem, intercessory prayer can lead to divine intervention. We are encouraged to pray fervently for others and for our communities.

Repentance and Restoration
David's sin led to severe consequences, but his repentance paved the way for restoration. We must acknowledge our sins and seek God's forgiveness to restore our relationship with Him.

The Significance of Sacred Spaces
The threshing floor of Araunah becomes a place of worship and sacrifice. We should recognize and honor the sacred spaces in our lives where we encounter God.

The Angel of the LORD
The presence of the angel signifies God's active involvement in human affairs. We should be aware of God's presence and guidance in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of God relenting from destroying Jerusalem in 1 Chronicles 21:15 demonstrate His character?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of intercessory prayer in our own lives, as seen in this passage?

3. How does David's response to his sin in this chapter inform our understanding of repentance and its importance?

4. What can we learn from the significance of the threshing floor of Araunah in the context of worship and sacrifice?

5. How does the role of the angel of the LORD in this passage connect to other instances of divine intervention in the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional context to the events in 1 Chronicles 21, highlighting David's repentance and the subsequent building of an altar.

Exodus 32:14
Demonstrates another instance where God relents from bringing disaster after intercession, showing His mercy.

Genesis 22:11-12
The angel of the LORD intervenes to stop Abraham from sacrificing Isaac, illustrating divine intervention and mercy.

Psalm 103:8-10
Reflects on God's merciful nature, slow to anger and abounding in love, which is evident in His relenting from the destruction of Jerusalem.