1 Chronicles 21:30

but David could not go before it to inquire of God, because he was afraid of the sword of the angel of the LORD.

Study Bible

But David could not go before it
This phrase indicates a limitation or hindrance in David's actions. The Hebrew root for "could not" (לא יכל, lo yakhol) suggests an inability or lack of power. David, a man after God's own heart, finds himself in a position where he cannot approach the altar. This reflects a moment of spiritual and emotional struggle, highlighting the human condition of fear and reverence before the divine. Historically, this moment follows David's sin of conducting a census, which was against God's will, leading to a plague as divine judgment. The inability to approach signifies a barrier between humanity and God due to sin, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

to inquire of God
The act of inquiring of God (לדרוש אלהים, lidrosh Elohim) is a significant aspect of David's relationship with the Lord. It implies seeking divine guidance and wisdom, a practice that David frequently engaged in throughout his life. This phrase underscores the importance of seeking God's will in all matters, a principle that is foundational in conservative Christian theology. The historical context here is crucial; David's inability to inquire reflects the consequences of sin, which disrupts communion with God. It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance and restoration to regain that fellowship.

because he was afraid
Fear (ירא, yare) in this context is not merely an emotional response but a profound reverence and awe for God's holiness and power. David's fear is rooted in the recognition of God's righteous judgment, as he has just witnessed the devastating effects of the angel's sword. This fear is a healthy acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and justice, reminding believers of the seriousness of sin and the need for a contrite heart. It is a call to live in the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).

of the sword of the angel of the LORD
The "sword of the angel of the LORD" (חרב מלאך יהוה, cherev mal'akh Yahweh) is a powerful symbol of divine judgment and authority. In the biblical narrative, angels often serve as messengers and executors of God's will. The sword represents the execution of divine justice, a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament. This imagery would have been particularly poignant for the original audience, who understood the gravity of divine retribution. For contemporary believers, it serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance and humility before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who is central to this account. He is known for his deep relationship with God but also for his human failings.

2. The Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who executes God's judgment, often seen as a representation of God's presence and power.

3. The Sword of the Angel
Symbolizes God's judgment and the fear it instills, representing divine authority and the consequences of sin.

4. The Altar of the LORD
The place where sacrifices are made, representing a point of communication and reconciliation with God.

5. The Threshing Floor of Araunah the Jebusite
The location where David eventually builds an altar to the LORD, which later becomes the site of the Temple.

Teaching Points

The Fear of the LORD
David's fear of the angel's sword reminds us of the importance of revering God's holiness and justice. It is a call to live with a healthy fear of the LORD, recognizing His power and authority over our lives.

Repentance and Restoration
David's inability to approach the altar due to fear highlights the barrier sin creates between us and God. However, it also points to the necessity of repentance and the hope of restoration through God's mercy.

The Significance of Sacrifice
The eventual building of an altar on the threshing floor signifies the importance of sacrifice in restoring fellowship with God. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who reconciles us to God.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The presence of the angel with a drawn sword underscores God's sovereignty in executing judgment. It serves as a reminder that God is just and His judgments are righteous.

The Role of Fear in Faith
While fear can be paralyzing, it can also lead us to deeper faith and reliance on God. David's fear ultimately leads him to seek God's mercy and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's fear of the angel's sword reflect our own experiences with the fear of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does the account of David's census and its consequences teach us about the importance of obedience to God?

3. How can we apply the concept of repentance and restoration in our daily walk with God, especially when we feel distant from Him?

4. What does the eventual building of the altar on the threshing floor teach us about God's provision and the significance of sacrifice?

5. How can we balance a healthy fear of the LORD with the assurance of His love and grace in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional context to the events in 1 Chronicles 21, highlighting David's census and the resulting plague.

Genesis 22
The concept of a significant event occurring on a threshing floor connects to Abraham's sacrifice, emphasizing themes of obedience and divine provision.

Hebrews 10:31
This verse speaks to the fear of falling into the hands of the living God, echoing David's fear of the angel's sword.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, which reflects his heart posture when confronted with his sin and the need for God's mercy.