◄ 1 Chronicles 28 ►
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David Commissions Solomon 1Now David summoned all the leaders of Israel to Jerusalem: the leaders of the tribes, the leaders of the divisions in the king’s service, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and the officials in charge of all the property and cattle of the king and his sons, along with the court officials and mighty men—every mighty man of valor. 2Then King David rose to his feet and said, “Listen to me, my brothers and my people. It was in my heart to build a house as a resting place for the ark of the covenant of the LORD and as a footstool for our God. I had made preparations to build it, 3but God said to me, ‘You are not to build a house for My Name, because you are a man of war who has shed blood.’ 4Yet the LORD, the God of Israel, chose me out of all my father’s house to be king over Israel forever. For He chose Judah as leader, and from the house of Judah He chose my father’s household, and from my father’s sons He was pleased to make me king over all Israel. 5And of all my sons—for the LORD has given me many sons—He has chosen Solomon my son to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel. 6And He said to me, ‘Solomon your son is the one who will build My house and My courts, for I have chosen him as My son, and I will be his Father. 7I will establish his kingdom forever, if he resolutely carries out My commandments and ordinances, as is being done this day.’ 8So now in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God, keep and seek out all the commandments of the LORD your God, so that you may possess this good land and leave it as an inheritance to your descendants forever. 9As for you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve Him wholeheartedly and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands the intent of every thought. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever. 10Consider now that the LORD has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary. Be strong and do it.” The Plans for the Temple 11Then David gave his son Solomon the plans for the portico of the temple,a its buildings, storehouses, upper rooms, inner rooms, and the room for the mercy seat.b 12The plans contained everything David had in mindc for the courts of the house of the LORD, for all the surrounding rooms, for the treasuries of the house of God and of the dedicated things, 13for the divisions of the priests and Levites, for all the work of service in the house of the LORD, and for all the articles of service in the house of the LORD: 14the weight of all the gold articles for every kind of service; the weight of all the silver articles for every kind of service; 15the weight of the gold lampstands and their lamps, including the weight of each lampstand and its lamps; the weight of each silver lampstand and its lamps, according to the use of each lampstand; 16the weight of gold for each table of showbread, and of silver for the silver tables; 17the weight of the pure gold for the forks, sprinkling bowls, and pitchers; the weight of each gold dish; the weight of each silver bowl; 18the weight of the refined gold for the altar of incense; and the plans for the chariot of the gold cherubim that spread their wings and overshadowed the ark of the covenant of the LORD. 19“All this,” said David, “all the details of this plan, the LORD has made clear to me in writing by His hand upon me.” 20David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do it. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you before all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished. 21The divisions of the priests and Levites are ready for all the service of the house of God, and every willing man of every skill will be at your disposal for the work. The officials and all the people are fully at your command.” Footnotes: 11 a LXX; Hebrew does not include of the temple. 11 b Or atonement cover 12 c Or had with him by the Spirit Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Chronicles 28 Summary David Commissions Solomon Verses 1–4 – David Assembles Israel’s Leaders David summons every official class—commanders, judges, officers, heads of clans—to Jerusalem. He recounts how God chose Judah, then his father’s house, and finally David himself “to be king over Israel forever” (v 4). Verses 5–7 – Solomon Chosen to Build the Temple Among David’s many sons, God selected Solomon to sit on the throne and to build “a house for My name” (v 6). The promise of an everlasting kingdom hinges on Solomon’s faithfulness: “If he continues steadfast in keeping My commandments and ordinances” (v 7). Verses 8–10 – Charge to Israel and Solomon David charges the gathered nation to “keep and seek out all the commandments of the LORD” (v 8). Turning to Solomon, he urges: “Serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind…be strong and do it” (vv 9–10). Verses 11–19 – The Temple Plans Delivered David hands Solomon detailed blueprints—courts, storerooms, treasuries, priestly divisions—“all in writing by the hand of the LORD” (v 19). Even utensils of gold and silver are listed. Verses 20–21 – David’s Final Exhortation In a stirring close, David repeats, “Be strong and courageous, and do it” (v 20). Priests, Levites, artisans, and officials stand ready; God Himself “will not fail you or forsake you.” 1 Chronicles 28 delves into King David's farewell speech where he anoints Solomon as the new king, entrusting him with the design and responsibility to build the temple. It serves as a profound moment of leadership transition, coupled with spiritual insights about obedience to God's will and His divine guidance. Historical Setting 1 Chronicles 28 occurs late in David’s reign, around 971 BC. The kingdom is secure, but David is barred from building the temple (22:8). This chapter bridges David’s reign and Solomon’s, preserving unity and clarifying succession. Leadership Transition • Public assembly removes doubt about Solomon’s legitimacy. • David models transparent leadership—announcing God’s choice rather than his own preference. • The charge blends authority (“I have prepared”) and humility (“it is of the LORD”). David’s Charge to Solomon Key words: “whole heart…willing mind” (v 9). Obedience is relational, not ritual. Compare Deuteronomy 6:5—“love the LORD…with all your heart.” Jesus echoes this as the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37). The Temple’s Divine Blueprint David received the design “by the Spirit” (v 12). Similar language appears with Moses and the tabernacle (Exodus 25:9, 40). The continuity shows one worship plan unfolding from wilderness tent to Jerusalem temple. Covenant and Kingship Verse 7 links temple building to dynasty. The promise parallels 2 Samuel 7:13: “He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.” The temple becomes an anchor for Davidic hopes that later point to Christ (Luke 1:32–33). Archaeological and Geographic Insights • The “treasuries of the house of God” (v 12) fit finds of cultic storerooms at nearby Iron Age sites like Tel Arad. • Massive dressed stones in the “large stone structure” by the City of David illustrate the scale of royal building in Solomon’s era. • The “gold for the lampstands” (v 15) reflects Near Eastern practice: temples displayed wealth as tribute to the deity. Priests and Levites Verse 21 details organized workforces. Numbers 3–4 laid out similar Levitical divisions. By Solomon’s day, twenty-four priestly courses (24:3–19) ensured year-round service—foreshadowing New Testament language of every believer as a priest (1 Peter 2:9). Themes and Connections 1. God’s faithfulness across generations (Psalm 145:4). 2. Human responsibility: obedience determines blessing (1 Kings 9:4–5). 3. Courage in leadership (Joshua 1:6–9 echoes “be strong and courageous”). 4. Worship centrality: the temple prefigures Christ’s body (John 2:19–21) and the church as God’s dwelling (Ephesians 2:21–22). Practical Applications • Pass the baton publicly and prayerfully. • Plan carefully, yet rely on God’s guidance—“by the Spirit.” • Invest resources in what honors God. • Encourage emerging leaders: “The LORD God…will not fail you.” Key Verse to Memorize “Be strong and courageous, and do it. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” —1 Chronicles 28:20 Connections to Additional Scriptures Deuteronomy 6:6-7 Emphasizes the importance of teaching God's commandments to the next generation. Proverbs 3:5-6 Encourages trust in the Lord and seeking His guidance in all our ways. Joshua 1:9 Reinforces the call to be strong and courageous, trusting in God's presence. Psalm 37:5 Highlights the importance of committing our way to the Lord and trusting Him to act. Teaching Points David's Assembly and Charge David gathers all the leaders of Israel, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective responsibility in God's work (1 Chronicles 28:1). God's Choice and Promise David recounts how God chose him to be king and Solomon to build the temple, highlighting God's sovereign will and promises (1 Chronicles 28:4-7). Solomon's Commission David charges Solomon to know God and serve Him with wholehearted devotion, underscoring the necessity of a personal relationship with God (1 Chronicles 28:9). The Temple Plans David provides Solomon with detailed plans for the temple, illustrating the importance of preparation and following God's guidance (1 Chronicles 28:11-19). Encouragement and Assurance David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous, reminding him that God will not forsake him (1 Chronicles 28:20). Practical Applications Legacy of Faith Consider how you are preparing the next generation to carry on the work of God. Are you actively mentoring and guiding them in their faith journey? Obedience to God's Will Reflect on how you discern and follow God's will in your life. Are you attentive to His guidance and promises? Wholehearted Devotion Evaluate your relationship with God. Are you serving Him with a willing and devoted heart, as David instructed Solomon? Preparation for God's Work Assess how you prepare for the tasks God has set before you. Are you diligent in planning and seeking His direction? People 1. David The King of Israel who gathers the leaders of Israel to give them instructions regarding the building of the temple. He is described as a man after God's own heart and is responsible for organizing the temple's construction plans. 2. Solomon David's son, chosen by God to succeed him as king and to build the temple. David emphasizes that Solomon is young and inexperienced, and he encourages him to be strong and courageous in fulfilling this task. 3. The LORD (Yahweh) While not a human person, the LORD is central to the chapter as the one who chose Solomon and provided David with the plans for the temple. The Hebrew name used here is יהוה (YHWH), reflecting the covenantal relationship with Israel. 4. The Leaders of Israel This group includes the officials, commanders, and mighty men who are summoned by David to hear his instructions. They represent the various tribes and divisions of Israel. 5. The Priests and Levites These are the religious leaders responsible for the temple services. David addresses them as part of the assembly, emphasizing their role in the worship and rituals of the temple. 6. The Sons of David While not individually named in this chapter, they are mentioned as part of the assembly. They represent David's lineage and the continuation of his dynasty. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location in 1 Chronicles 28, where King David assembles all the leaders of Israel. It is the city chosen by God for His temple to be built, as indicated in the broader biblical narrative. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which is often associated with peace and completeness. The chapter primarily focuses on David's instructions and the plans for the temple, with Jerusalem being the focal point as the chosen city for this significant undertaking. Events 1. David Assembles the Leaders of Israel David gathers all the officials of Israel, including the tribal leaders, commanders, and overseers, to Jerusalem. This assembly signifies the importance of the message he is about to deliver (1 Chronicles 28:1). 2. David Addresses the Assembly David stands and addresses the assembly, explaining his desire to build a house for the Ark of the Covenant and a footstool for God. He recounts how God chose him to be king over Israel and Solomon to succeed him (1 Chronicles 28:2-5). 3. God's Covenant with David David shares God's covenant with him, emphasizing that God chose Solomon to build the temple. He highlights the divine selection and the conditions of obedience for Solomon to succeed (1 Chronicles 28:6-7). 4. David's Charge to Solomon David charges Solomon to know and serve God with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind. He stresses the importance of seeking God and warns of the consequences of forsaking Him (1 Chronicles 28:9). 5. David Provides the Temple Plans David gives Solomon the plans for the temple, including its structures, treasuries, and the divisions of the priests and Levites. This detailed blueprint underscores the divine inspiration behind the temple's design (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). 6. Instructions for Temple Service David outlines the duties of the priests and Levites, as well as the articles for service in the temple. This organization reflects the order and sanctity required for worship (1 Chronicles 28:13-14). 7. David's Assurance of God's Guidance David reassures Solomon that God will be with him and will not fail or forsake him. He encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous in carrying out the work (1 Chronicles 28:20). 8. David's Provision for the Temple David mentions the materials he has prepared for the temple, including gold, silver, and other resources. This preparation highlights David's dedication to ensuring the temple's completion (1 Chronicles 28:21). Lessons from 1 Chronicles 28 1. The Importance of Obedience to God’s Commands In 1 Chronicles 28, King David emphasizes the necessity of following God's commands. He reminds Solomon, "If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever" (1 Chronicles 28:9). This highlights the importance of obedience and the blessings that come from seeking God wholeheartedly. In our daily lives, prioritizing God's Word and aligning our actions with His will can lead to a fulfilling and purposeful life. 2. The Power of a God-Given Vision David shares the plans for the temple with Solomon, illustrating the power of a vision given by God. "All this," said David, "the LORD made me understand in writing by His hand upon me, all the details of this pattern" (1 Chronicles 28:19). When God places a vision in our hearts, it is crucial to pursue it with faith and diligence, trusting that He will provide the guidance and resources needed to bring it to fruition. 3. The Role of Leadership in God’s Plan David’s charge to Solomon underscores the significance of leadership in fulfilling God’s purposes. "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you" (1 Chronicles 28:20). Effective leadership involves courage, strength, and reliance on God’s presence. Whether leading a family, a team, or a community, seeking God’s wisdom is essential for success. 4. The Legacy of Faithfulness David’s life serves as a testament to the legacy of faithfulness. He instructs Solomon to "observe all the commandments of the LORD your God" (1 Chronicles 28:8). A life dedicated to God leaves a lasting impact on future generations. By living faithfully, we can inspire others to pursue a relationship with God and uphold His commandments. 5. The Significance of Preparation David meticulously prepares for the construction of the temple, demonstrating the importance of preparation in achieving God’s plans. "I have taken great pains to provide for the house of the LORD" (1 Chronicles 28:2). Preparation is key in any endeavor, whether spiritual or practical. By planning and preparing, we position ourselves to effectively carry out God’s purposes. 6. The Assurance of God’s Presence David reassures Solomon of God’s unwavering presence, saying, "The LORD God is with you" (1 Chronicles 28:20). This assurance is a powerful reminder that we are never alone in our journey. God’s presence provides comfort, strength, and guidance, enabling us to face challenges with confidence and peace. 7. The Value of Wisdom and Understanding David encourages Solomon to "serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind" (1 Chronicles 28:9). Wisdom and understanding are invaluable in serving God effectively. By seeking God’s wisdom through prayer and Scripture, we can make informed decisions and navigate life’s complexities with discernment. 8. The Call to Wholehearted Devotion David’s charge to Solomon emphasizes the need for wholehearted devotion to God. "Know the God of your father, and serve Him with a perfect heart" (1 Chronicles 28:9). A heart fully devoted to God is essential for a meaningful relationship with Him. By prioritizing our relationship with God, we can experience His love and guidance in every aspect of our lives. 9. The Encouragement to Be Strong and Courageous David’s words to Solomon, "Be strong and courageous" (1 Chronicles 28:20), serve as a timeless encouragement for all believers. Strength and courage are vital in overcoming obstacles and fulfilling God’s purposes. By relying on God’s strength, we can face challenges with confidence and perseverance. 10. The Joy of Serving God’s Purpose David’s dedication to building the temple reflects the joy of serving God’s purpose. "I had it in my heart to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD" (1 Chronicles 28:2). Serving God brings joy and fulfillment, as we align our lives with His divine plan. By embracing our God-given purpose, we can experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from serving Him. Topics 1. David's Assembly of Leaders In 1 Chronicles 28:1, King David gathers all the leaders of Israel, including the tribal leaders, commanders, and officials, to address them. This assembly signifies the importance of unity and leadership in fulfilling God's plans. The Hebrew term for "assembly" (קָהָל, qahal) emphasizes the collective gathering of God's people for a significant purpose. 2. David's Charge to Solomon Verses 2-10 detail David's charge to his son Solomon, emphasizing the importance of building the temple. David recounts God's promise and instructions, highlighting the divine selection of Solomon as the builder. The Hebrew word for "charge" (צָוָה, tzavah) underscores the authoritative command given by David under God's guidance. 3. God's Covenant and Promise In verses 4-7, David reflects on God's covenant with him, choosing him and his descendants to rule Israel. The passage underscores the faithfulness of God to His promises, with the Hebrew term for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) indicating a binding agreement initiated by God. 4. Solomon's Responsibility and Encouragement Verses 9-10 focus on Solomon's responsibility to know and serve God wholeheartedly. David encourages Solomon to seek God, promising that God will be found if sought earnestly. The Hebrew root for "seek" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) implies a diligent and intentional pursuit of God. 5. The Temple Plans In verses 11-19, David provides Solomon with detailed plans for the temple, which he received by divine inspiration. This section highlights the precision and care required in following God's instructions. The Hebrew word for "pattern" (תַּבְנִית, tabnit) suggests a divinely inspired blueprint. 6. David's Assurance of God's Support Verses 20-21 offer David's assurance to Solomon of God's presence and support in the temple's construction. David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous, echoing the Hebrew term חָזַק (chazaq), meaning to be strong or firm, which is often used in contexts of divine empowerment. Themes 1. Divine Appointment and Leadership In 1 Chronicles 28, David emphasizes that Solomon was chosen by God to be king over Israel. This theme highlights the divine appointment of leaders, as seen in verse 5: "And of all my sons—for the LORD has given me many sons—He has chosen my son Solomon to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel." The Hebrew word for "chosen" (בָּחַר, bachar) underscores the idea of divine selection and purpose. 2. The Importance of Obedience to God’s Commands David instructs Solomon to obey God's commands to ensure success. Verse 8 states, "So now, in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God, observe and seek out all the commandments of the LORD your God, so that you may possess this good land and leave it as an inheritance to your descendants forever." The Hebrew root for "observe" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies careful attention and guarding of God's laws. 3. The Role of the Temple The chapter underscores the significance of building the temple as a central place of worship. In verse 10, David tells Solomon, "Consider now that the LORD has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary. Be strong and do it." The temple is portrayed as a physical manifestation of God's presence and a focal point for Israel's worship. 4. God’s Faithfulness and Covenant David reflects on God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. In verse 7, God promises to establish Solomon's kingdom if he remains faithful: "I will establish his kingdom forever if he resolutely carries out My commandments and ordinances, as is being done this day." The Hebrew word for "establish" (כּוּן, kun) conveys the idea of making firm or stable, reflecting God's commitment to His promises. 5. Encouragement and Strength in God David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous in his task. Verse 20 reads, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you." The Hebrew word for "courageous" (חָזַק, chazaq) suggests being resolute and firm, emphasizing reliance on God's presence and support. 6. The Role of Wisdom and Understanding David advises Solomon to seek wisdom and understanding in his leadership. In verse 9, David says, "And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought." The Hebrew word for "understands" (בִּין, bin) implies discernment and insight, essential qualities for godly leadership. 7. The Legacy of Faithfulness The chapter highlights the importance of leaving a legacy of faithfulness to future generations. David's instructions to Solomon are not just for his reign but for the enduring faithfulness of Israel. This theme is encapsulated in the call to "leave it as an inheritance to your descendants forever" (verse 8), emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant through faithful adherence to His commands. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment in passing on a legacy of faith to the next generation. Ask God for a heart that is fully devoted to Him, seeking to know and serve Him wholeheartedly. Seek God's guidance and strength in fulfilling the tasks He has set before you, trusting in His presence and promises. Pray for unity and collective responsibility within the church community as we work together for God's kingdom. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 1 Chronicles 28:3, why would a God of peace forbid David from building the temple simply because he had shed blood, yet historically use wars and conquests to establish Israel? 2. Does 1 Chronicles 28:5, where David says God chose Solomon as king, align with or contradict other biblical passages about political intrigue in David's succession? 3. How can we confirm the temple blueprint in 1 Chronicles 28:11–12 is divine revelation, not human design, based on historical and archaeological evidence of ancient temples? 4. How can we reconcile 1 Chronicles 28:8's command to follow all of God's laws with inconsistencies in other legal texts? 5. In 1 Chronicles 28:9, David tells Solomon that God knows every human thought; how can this be scientifically or logically demonstrated, given current understandings of consciousness? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does David's public endorsement of Solomon's kingship and the building of the temple reflect on the significance of leadership transition in the Bible? 2. In what ways does God's choice of Solomon demonstrate His sovereignty over man's plans? 3. How does David model humility in accepting God's decision not to allow him to build the temple? 4. What significance does the detailed plan of the temple hold in understanding God's desire for order and precision in worship? 5. How can we apply David's charge to Solomon in our own lives? 6. In verse 9, what does it mean when it says, "the Lord searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought"? 7. How does the concept of God searching and knowing our hearts challenge our actions and motives in present-day living? 8. How can you practice whole-hearted devotion to God as advised by David in your everyday life? 9. How does David's instruction to Solomon about courage and fear relate to your current situation? 10. Why was it important for David to stress on the divine origin of the temple's blueprint? 11. How does God's promise to be with Solomon, as stated by David, reassure you in the tasks God has given you? 12. How do you see the theme of obedience playing out in this chapter, and how can it be applied in present-day society? 13. How does David exemplify leadership in preparing the next generation for God's work? 14. How can we use David's plan for the temple as a metaphor for planning and building our own lives? 15. What does it mean to leave a spiritual inheritance for future generations, as David did? 16. What are some practical ways we can seek and keep all the commandments of the Lord as advised by David? 17. How do the details about the temple construction reflect on our own efforts in building a place for God in our hearts? 18. How does this chapter reflect on the importance of succession in fulfilling God's divine plans? 19. How can we understand and execute God's "blueprint" in our own lives? 20. How does David's life and his final instructions to Solomon and the assembly challenge your perception of leadership and responsibility in God's work? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions