1 Chronicles 29:1

Then King David said to the whole assembly, "My son Solomon, the one whom God has chosen, is young and inexperienced. The task is great because this palace is not for man, but for the LORD God.

Study Bible

Then King David said to the whole assembly
David, nearing the end of his reign, addresses the gathered leaders and people of Israel. This assembly includes tribal leaders, military commanders, and other officials. David's public declaration underscores the importance of transparency and unity in leadership transitions. It reflects the biblical principle of communal involvement in significant national and spiritual decisions, as seen in other instances like Moses addressing Israel (Deuteronomy 31:1-8).

My son Solomon, the one whom God has chosen
Solomon's selection as king is divinely ordained, emphasizing God's sovereignty in leadership appointments. This echoes God's choice of David over Saul (1 Samuel 16:1-13). Solomon's anointing fulfills God's promise to David that his lineage would continue on the throne (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This choice prefigures Christ, the ultimate chosen one, who fulfills God's redemptive plan (Matthew 12:18).

is young and inexperienced
Solomon's youth and lack of experience highlight the need for divine wisdom and guidance, which he later famously requests from God (1 Kings 3:7-9). This acknowledgment of human limitation points to the necessity of reliance on God, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture (Proverbs 3:5-6).

The task is great
The task refers to the building of the temple, a monumental project both in scale and spiritual significance. The temple would become the central place of worship for Israel, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This task's greatness is not only in its physical construction but also in its role in Israel's covenant relationship with God.

because this palace is not for man, but for the LORD God
The temple, referred to as a palace, signifies a dwelling place for God, distinct from human palaces. This distinction underscores the temple's sacredness and the holiness required in its construction and use. It reflects the biblical theme of God's transcendence and immanence, as He dwells among His people yet remains wholly other (Isaiah 66:1-2). The temple foreshadows Christ, who becomes the ultimate temple, God dwelling with humanity (John 2:19-21).

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and leadership. Here, he is addressing the assembly about the future temple.

2. Solomon
David's son, chosen by God to succeed him as king and to build the temple. He is described as young and inexperienced.

3. The Assembly
The gathered leaders and people of Israel whom David addresses, emphasizing the communal nature of the temple project.

4. The Temple (Palatial Structure)
The grand temple that Solomon is to build, dedicated to the LORD, signifying its divine purpose and importance.

5. The LORD God
The God of Israel, for whom the temple is being constructed, highlighting the sacredness of the task.

Teaching Points

God's Choice and Human Inadequacy
God often chooses those who seem inadequate by human standards to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Solomon's youth and inexperience.

The Importance of Divine Purpose
The temple's construction is a reminder that our work should be for God's glory, not for human recognition.

Leadership and Preparation
David's preparation for Solomon's task highlights the importance of preparing the next generation for leadership and service to God.

Community Involvement in God's Work
The assembly's involvement shows that fulfilling God's purposes often requires communal effort and support.

Trust in God's Provision
Despite human limitations, trusting in God's provision and guidance is crucial for accomplishing His plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's acknowledgment of Solomon's inexperience challenge our views on leadership and capability in serving God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our work and efforts are dedicated to the LORD rather than for personal gain or recognition?

3. How can we, like David, prepare and support the next generation in their spiritual and leadership journeys?

4. What role does community play in fulfilling God's purposes, and how can we foster a sense of communal responsibility in our church or group?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate for a task God called you to. How did you experience His provision and guidance in that situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:7
Solomon's acknowledgment of his youth and inexperience when he asks God for wisdom, paralleling David's description of him.

1 Samuel 16:12-13
David's own anointing as king, showing the continuity of God's choice in leadership from David to Solomon.

Exodus 25:8-9
The instructions for the tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple, emphasizing the importance of a dwelling place for God among His people.

2 Chronicles 2:5-6
Solomon's recognition of the temple's purpose as a house for God, reinforcing the idea that it is not for man but for the LORD.