◄ 1 Chronicles 22 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Solomon Anointed to Build the Temple 1 Chronicles 22 beautifully illustrates the principles of preparation, leadership, and legacy. King David, although unable to build the Temple himself, demonstrates extraordinary vision and foresight in preparing for its construction. His faith and dedication to God's will inspire us to make ready not just for our own tasks but also to equip future generations to fulfill their divine callings. David's Preparations for the Temple (Verses 1-5) King David, moved by God, declares the site of Ornan the Jebusite's threshing floor to be the building ground for the temple. Recognizing that Solomon is young and inexperienced, David makes extensive provisions of materials (iron, bronze, cedar logs, and stones) in immense quantities to ensure that Solomon can carry out this monumental task. David Charges Solomon (Verses 6-10) David formally charges his son Solomon with the task of building the temple. He explains to Solomon that God has chosen him specifically for this task, emphasizing the importance of the divine mandate. David advises Solomon to serve God faithfully and wholeheartedly to succeed in his endeavor. David's Prayer for Solomon (Verses 11-16) David prays for Solomon, asking God to grant him discretion and understanding, and to establish Solomon's kingdom. David encourages Solomon, reminding him of God's promises and commands Solomon to be strong, courageous, and devoted to God's laws. David Commands the Leaders of Israel (Verses 17-19) David commands the leaders of Israel to assist Solomon in this divine project. He urges them to devote themselves to seeking the Lord, and to wholeheartedly participate in building the dwelling place for the Lord. 1 Chronicles 22 serves as an interesting transitional point in the history of Israel, primarily focusing on King David's preparations for the construction of the Temple. In this chapter, David makes vast arrangements to ensure that his son, Solomon, can fulfill the divine calling of building the Temple after David's passing. Teaching Points David's Preparation David takes significant steps to prepare for the construction of the temple, gathering materials and instructing Solomon. So David gave orders to gather the foreigners in the land of Israel, and he appointed stonecutters to prepare finished stones for building the house of God (1 Chronicles 22:2). Divine Purpose David acknowledges that Solomon is chosen by God to build the temple. He said to me, ‘Solomon your son is the one who will build My house and My courts, for I have chosen him to be My son, and I will be his Father’ (1 Chronicles 22:10). Encouragement and Charge David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous, emphasizing reliance on God. Now, my son, may the LORD be with you, and may you succeed in building the house of the LORD your God, as He has spoken concerning you (1 Chronicles 22:11). Provision and Planning David meticulously plans and provides resources for the temple, demonstrating the importance of preparation in fulfilling God's plans. Now behold, with great effort I have provided for the house of the LORD a hundred thousand talents of gold, a million talents of silver, and bronze and iron too great to be weighed (1 Chronicles 22:14). Practical Applications Legacy Building Consider what legacy you are leaving for future generations. How can you prepare and provide for the continuation of God's work? Encouragement in Leadership Like David, encourage and equip those who will carry on the work after you. Offer guidance and support to emerging leaders. Reliance on God Trust in God's plans and purposes, even when you may not see the completion of the work yourself. Preparation and Diligence Be diligent in your preparations for any task God has set before you, ensuring you have the necessary resources and plans in place. People 1. David The central figure in this chapter, King David is preparing for the construction of the temple. He gathers materials and gives instructions to Solomon. David is described as a man of war who has shed much blood, which is why God did not allow him to build the temple himself. 2. Solomon David's son, who is chosen by God to build the temple. David provides Solomon with guidance and encouragement, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and understanding. Solomon's name in Hebrew, שְׁלֹמֹה (Shelomoh), is related to the word for peace, שָׁלוֹם (shalom), reflecting the peaceful reign he is expected to have. 3. The LORD (Yahweh) While not a person in the human sense, the LORD is a central figure in the narrative. David speaks of the LORD's instructions and promises regarding the temple and Solomon's role. The Hebrew name for God used here is יְהוָה (Yahweh), emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location where David prepares for the construction of the temple. It is the city chosen by God for His name to dwell, as seen throughout the Old Testament. In Hebrew, Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which holds deep historical and spiritual significance as the city of David and the future site of the temple. 2. Mount Moriah Although not explicitly named in 1 Chronicles 22, Mount Moriah is traditionally understood to be the location where the temple was to be built. This is based on 2 Chronicles 3:1, which identifies Mount Moriah as the site of Solomon's temple. In Hebrew, "מֹרִיָּה" (Moriah) is associated with the place where Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac, further emphasizing its importance as a place of divine encounter and covenant. Events 1. David's Preparation for the Temple David begins preparations for the construction of the temple, stating, "This is the house of the LORD God, and this is the altar of burnt offering for Israel" (1 Chronicles 22:1). The Hebrew word for "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) signifies a dwelling place, emphasizing the temple as God's chosen habitation. 2. Gathering Materials David commands the gathering of materials for the temple, including "iron in abundance for the nails of the doors of the gates and for the clamps, as well as more bronze than could be weighed" (1 Chronicles 22:3). The Hebrew term for "abundance" (רֹב, rov) indicates the vast quantity of resources David amassed. 3. Provision of Cedar Logs David procures cedar logs from the Sidonians and Tyrians, as noted in "and cedar logs without number" (1 Chronicles 22:4). The use of cedar, a durable and aromatic wood, underscores the temple's intended grandeur and permanence. 4. Solomon's Commissioning David commissions Solomon to build the temple, saying, "My son, I had it in my heart to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God" (1 Chronicles 22:7). The phrase "in my heart" (בִּלְבָבִי, bilvavi) reflects David's deep personal desire and commitment to this divine project. 5. Divine Prohibition and Promise David recounts God's prohibition against him building the temple due to his history as a warrior, but also relays God's promise that Solomon will build it: "Behold, a son will be born to you, who will be a man of rest" (1 Chronicles 22:9). The Hebrew word for "rest" (מְנוּחָה, menuchah) signifies peace and tranquility, which Solomon's reign would embody. 6. Instructions to Solomon David instructs Solomon to be strong and courageous, emphasizing obedience to God's laws: "Now, my son, may the LORD be with you, and may you succeed in building the house of the LORD your God, as He has spoken concerning you" (1 Chronicles 22:11). The Hebrew root for "succeed" (צָלַח, tsalach) implies prospering or thriving under divine favor. 7. Prayer for Wisdom and Understanding David prays for Solomon to have wisdom and understanding, stating, "May the LORD give you insight and understanding" (1 Chronicles 22:12). The Hebrew words for "insight" (שֵׂכֶל, sekel) and "understanding" (בִּינָה, binah) highlight the intellectual and spiritual discernment needed for leadership. 8. Encouragement to Begin the Work David encourages Solomon to begin the work, assuring him of the resources and support: "Now set your heart and soul to seek the LORD your God. Begin building the sanctuary of the LORD God" (1 Chronicles 22:19). The phrase "set your heart and soul" (לְבַבְכֶם וְנַפְשְׁכֶם, levavchem venafshechem) emphasizes wholehearted dedication to the task. 9. Command to the Leaders of Israel David commands the leaders of Israel to assist Solomon, saying, "Is not the LORD your God with you? And has He not granted you rest on every side?" (1 Chronicles 22:18). The rhetorical question underscores God's presence and the peace that enables the temple's construction. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be achieved. Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment in preparing for the future and building a lasting legacy. Ask God to strengthen and encourage those who will continue His work after you. Seek God's guidance in providing the necessary resources and support for His plans. Pray for a heart of faith and trust in God's timing and purposes, even when the outcome is unseen. Bible Study Questions 1. Why was it significant for David to prepare materials for the construction of the Temple? 2. How can we apply David's foresight and preparations to our own lives, especially in preparing the next generation? 3. Why wasn't David allowed to build the temple? How did David handle this divine command? 4. How does the choice of Solomon as the temple builder resonate with God's choice of the young and inexperienced? 5. In what ways did David show his faithfulness to God even though he was not chosen to build the temple? 6. What does David's charge to Solomon teach us about imparting wisdom and responsibility to the younger generation? 7. What is the significance of David's prayer for Solomon? How can we incorporate this example into our own prayers for those taking on big responsibilities? 8. What are some ways we can apply David's command to the leaders of Israel to assist Solomon in our own community or church leadership? 9. How does the preparation for the Temple's construction demonstrate the value of collaboration in achieving God's purpose? 10. What does this chapter reveal about God's plan, timing, and choice of people to carry out His will? 11. How does David's willingness to assist his successor reflect on his character as a leader? 12. In what ways can you prepare and equip those who will succeed you in your current roles (e.g., work, ministry, family)? 13. How can you apply David's command for Solomon to be strong and courageous in your life today? 14. How does the immense preparation of materials reflect the value and reverence David placed on the house of God? 15. What can we learn from David's acceptance of God's will not to build the temple but to prepare for it? 16. What does David's respect for God's decision about the temple's construction teach us about obedience and humility? 17. How can we seek and accept God's guidance when our plans and desires don't align with His? 18. How can we encourage and support those who are young and inexperienced in their spiritual journey, like David did for Solomon? 19. How might you support the next generation in their walk with God, as David did for Solomon? 20. Reflecting on this chapter, what are some ways we can better prepare ourselves to carry out God's will in our lives? Topics 1. David's Preparation for the Temple (1 Chronicles 22:1-5) David declares the site for the temple, saying, "This is the house of the LORD God, and this is the altar of burnt offering for Israel" (1 Chronicles 22:1). He begins gathering materials and laborers, emphasizing the importance of the temple as a place of worship and sacrifice. The Hebrew word for "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) signifies a dwelling place, underscoring the temple as God's dwelling among His people. 2. David's Charge to Solomon (1 Chronicles 22:6-10) David calls Solomon and instructs him to build the temple, explaining that God chose Solomon for this task. David recounts God's promise, "Behold, a son will be born to you, who will be a man of rest" (1 Chronicles 22:9). The Hebrew term for "rest" (מְנוּחָה, menuchah) highlights the peace and stability Solomon's reign will bring, allowing for the temple's construction. 3. David's Encouragement and Provision for Solomon (1 Chronicles 22:11-16) David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous, trusting in God's presence and guidance. He provides Solomon with resources, including gold, silver, and skilled workers, to ensure the temple's completion. The emphasis on divine support and provision reflects the Hebrew concept of "chazaq" (חָזַק), meaning to be strong or firm in faith. 4. David's Command to the Leaders of Israel (1 Chronicles 22:17-19) David instructs the leaders of Israel to assist Solomon, urging them to "set your hearts and souls to seek the LORD your God" (1 Chronicles 22:19). The Hebrew word for "seek" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) implies a diligent pursuit of God's will, highlighting the spiritual commitment required from the leaders to support the temple project. Themes 1. Preparation for the Temple Construction In 1 Chronicles 22, David makes extensive preparations for the construction of the temple, which his son Solomon will build. David gathers materials and laborers, emphasizing the importance of the temple as a house for the Lord. This theme highlights the significance of preparing for God's work and the dedication required to honor Him. The Hebrew word for "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) underscores the temple as a dwelling place for God. 2. Divine Appointment and Succession David acknowledges that Solomon is chosen by God to build the temple, as seen in verses 9-10: "Behold, a son will be born to you, who will be a man of rest... He shall build a house for My name." This theme reflects the divine appointment and the importance of following God's will in leadership and succession. The Hebrew root for "rest" (נוח, nuach) signifies peace and stability, which Solomon's reign is meant to bring. 3. Peace and Rest as Foundations for God's Work The chapter emphasizes that Solomon's reign will be characterized by peace, allowing for the construction of the temple. In verse 9, God promises David that Solomon will be a "man of rest" and will bring peace to Israel. This theme illustrates the necessity of peace and rest as foundations for undertaking significant spiritual endeavors. 4. Obedience to God's Commands David instructs Solomon to be obedient to God's laws and commands as a prerequisite for success in building the temple. In verse 13, David advises, "Then you will prosper, if you carefully observe the statutes and ordinances that the LORD commanded Moses for Israel." This theme underscores the importance of obedience to God's word as a key to prosperity and success in His work. 5. Encouragement and Strength in God's Service David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous in undertaking the task of building the temple. In verse 13, he says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged." This theme highlights the need for strength and courage in serving God, trusting in His support and guidance. The Hebrew word for "strong" (חָזַק, chazaq) conveys the idea of being firm and resolute. 6. Provision and Generosity for God's Work David's provision of materials and resources for the temple construction demonstrates the theme of generosity and provision for God's work. In verse 14, David states, "I have taken great pains to provide for the house of the LORD." This theme emphasizes the importance of giving and preparing generously for the work of the Lord, reflecting a heart devoted to His service. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions