Preparations for the Temple 1Then David said, “Here shall be the house of the LORD God, as well as the altar of burnt offering for Israel.” 2So David gave orders to gather the foreigners in the land of Israel, from whom he appointed stonecutters to prepare finished stones for building the house of God. 3David provided a large quantity of iron to make the nails for the doors of the gateways and for the fittings, together with more bronze than could be weighed 4and more cedar logs than could be counted; for the Sidonians and Tyrians had brought a large quantity of cedar logs to David. 5And David said, “My son Solomon is young and inexperienced, and the house to be built for the LORD must be exceedingly magnificent—famous and glorious throughout all lands. Therefore I must make preparations for it.” So David made lavish preparations before his death. Solomon Anointed to Build the Temple 6Then David called for his son Solomon and instructed him to build a house for the LORD, the God of Israel. 7“My son,” said David to Solomon, “it was in my heart to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God, 8but this word of the LORD came to me: ‘You have shed much blood and waged great wars. You are not to build a house for My Name because you have shed so much blood on the ground before Me. 9But a son will be born to you who will be a man of rest. I will give him rest from all his enemies on every side; for his name will be Solomon,a and I will grant to Israel peace and quiet during his reign. 10He is the one who will build a house for My Name. He will be My son, and I will be his Father. And I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel forever.’ 11Now, my son, may the LORD be with you, and may you succeed in building the house of the LORD your God, as He said you would. 12Above all, may the LORD give you insight and understanding when He puts you in command over Israel, so that you may keep the Law of the LORD your God. 13Then you will succeed, if you carefully follow the statutes and ordinances that the LORD commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. 14Now behold, I have taken great pains to provide for the house of the LORD—100,000 talents of gold,b 1,000,000 talents of silver,c and bronze and iron too great to be weighed. I have also provided timber and stone, and you may add to them. 15You also have many workers: stonecutters, masons, carpenters, and men skilled in every kind of work— 16in gold and silver, bronze and iron—craftsmen beyond number. Now begin the work, and may the LORD be with you.” 17Then David ordered all the leaders of Israel to help his son Solomon: 18“Is not the LORD your God with you, and has He not granted you rest on every side? For He has given the inhabitants of the land into my hand, and the land has been subdued before the LORD and His people. 19Now set your heart and soul to seek the LORD your God. Begin building the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that you may bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the holy articles of God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the LORD.” Footnotes: 9 a Solomon sounds like and is probably derived from the Hebrew word for peace. 14 b 100,000 talents is approximately 3,770 tons or 3,420 metric tons of gold. 14 c 1,000,000 talents is approximately 37,700 tons or 34,200 metric tons of silver. 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 22 Summary Solomon Anointed to Build the TempleVerses 1–5 – David Selects the Site and Stockpiles Materials Verses 6–10 – David’s Private Charge to Solomon Verses 11–13 – David’s Blessing over Solomon Verses 14–16 – Inventory of Resources Verses 17–19 – Command to Leaders and People 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. Historical Setting • The chapter falls late in David’s reign, after the plague (1 Chronicles 21) and the purchase of Ornan’s threshing floor. • By concentrating on preparation rather than construction, the writer highlights David’s devotion without contradicting God’s word forbidding him to build (2 Samuel 7:5-13). • Chronicles was compiled after the exile. Emphasizing temple preparation reminded post-exilic readers of their duty to rebuild and worship faithfully (Ezra 3; Haggai 1:8). Geographical and Archaeological Notes • The threshing floor sits on Mount Moriah (2 Chronicles 3:1), traditionally linked to Abraham’s sacrifice of Isaac (Genesis 22:2). This underlines continuity in God’s redemptive plan. • Excavations on Jerusalem’s eastern ridge reveal Iron Age retaining walls and stepped stone structures that could date to the united monarchy, matching the scale of Davidic and Solomonic projects. • Cedars from Lebanon reflect an established Phoenician trade route (1 Kings 5:6-10). Archaeology at Byblos and Tyre confirms booming timber exports in the 10th century BC. Why David Could Not Build • 1 Chronicles 22:8 records God’s words: “You have shed much blood.” This does not condemn just war; rather, the future temple is to symbolize peace with God. • Solomon—“Shelomoh,” from shalom, “peace”—embodies the rest that follows conflict, foreshadowing the Messiah, “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). The Massive Stockpile Gold – 100,000 talents (≈3,400 tons) Silver – 1,000,000 talents (≈34,000 tons) Bronze & Iron – “beyond weighing” • These figures convey grandeur; ancient Near-Eastern royal inscriptions often employed large numbers to honor kings and gods. • Even if rounded, the text underlines that the Lord’s house should surpass any earthly palace (1 Kings 10:14-23). Connections to Other Scripture • 1 Chronicles 22:13 ↔ Joshua 1:6-9 – identical encouragement: “Be strong and courageous.” Both leaders stand on the threshold of covenant fulfillment. • 1 Chronicles 22:19 ↔ Deuteronomy 12:5, 11 – the place God will choose for His Name now clearly identified. • 1 Chronicles 22:9-10 ↔ 2 Samuel 7:12-13 – Solomon as near fulfillment, Christ as ultimate fulfillment of an everlasting throne (Lu 1:32-33). • Hebrews 4:9-10 picks up the theme of rest inaugurated under Solomon yet perfected in Christ. Temple Theology in Simple Terms Presence – God chooses a spot to place His Name. Atonement – Sacrifices offered for sin. Holiness – Architecture and furnishings preach purity. Prayer – A centralized location fosters united worship (2 Chronicles 7:15-16). Peace – Built in rest, pointing to the greater rest believers enjoy in Christ (Matthew 11:28-30). David as Model of Spiritual Preparation 1. He obeys divine correction (21:17-30). 2. He invests resources sacrificially (22:14). 3. He passes vision to the next generation (22:6-13). 4. He mobilizes community support (22:17-19). Application: Legacy often lies in groundwork we lay rather than tasks we personally complete (John 4:37-38). Solomon’s Peaceful Reign • A reign “free from all enemies” (1 Kings 5:4) allows focus on worship, arts, and wisdom literature. • His era previews the prophesied age when “nation will not take up sword against nation” (Isaiah 2:4). Practical Takeaways • Big God-honoring projects demand accurate planning, generous giving, and teamwork. • God uses different seasons: war for defense, peace for building. • Parental blessing and instruction have lifelong impact. Archaeological Corroborations of Solomon’s Building Era • Gate complexes at Megiddo, Hazor, and Gezer share six-chamber design and finely cut ashlar masonry—features tied to Solomonic construction in 1 Kings 9:15. • Copper smelting sites at Timna highlight advanced metallurgy, explaining “workers in bronze and iron without number” (22:16). Leadership Principles from David’s Charge – Clarify God’s will before acting. – Resource the vision thoroughly. – Encourage successors publicly and privately. – Rally capable people (22:15) and assign clear roles. – Anchor everything in obedience to Scripture (22:12-13). Echoes in the New Testament • Believers described as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Colossians 3:16-17), built on Christ the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-22). • Like David, we gather “living stones” (1 Peter 2:5) through evangelism and discipleship, trusting God to complete the work. Summary Thought 1 Chronicles 22 portrays a king who cannot build but can prepare, a son commissioned to build in peace, and a God who desires a dwelling among His people. The chapter challenges every generation to seek the Lord, lay solid foundations, and build lives and communities that display His glory. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 16:3Commit 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. Teaching Points David's PreparationDavid 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 BuildingConsider 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. DavidThe 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. JerusalemJerusalem 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 TempleDavid 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. 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 ConstructionIn 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. Answering Tough Questions 1. How is it historically or scientifically plausible for David to accumulate “one hundred thousand talents of gold and a million talents of silver” (1 Chronicles 22:14)? Bible Study Discussion 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? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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