How does David's action in 1 Chronicles 21:28 reflect trust in God's mercy? The Scripture Focus “At that time, when David saw that the LORD had answered him at the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite, he continued to offer sacrifices there.” (1 Chronicles 21:28) What Just Happened? • David’s census brought judgment—seventy thousand fell (21:14). • God halted the plague at Ornan’s threshing floor as David built an altar and offered burnt and peace offerings (21:26–27). • Seeing fire descend and the angel sheath his sword, David kept sacrificing on that very spot—verse 28. How David’s Action Shows Trust in God’s Mercy 1. Confidence in an Answered Prayer • David “saw that the LORD had answered him.” • Instead of retreating in fear, he remains at the place where mercy was displayed, trusting the plague is truly over (cf. Psalm 34:4–5). 2. Reliance on Substitutionary Atonement • Burnt and peace offerings proclaim: “a life for a life” (Leviticus 1; 7). • David believes God accepts a substitute rather than require more lives—an act of faith in divine compassion (cf. 2 Samuel 24:25). 3. Choosing God’s Design over Human Convenience • The tabernacle and bronze altar were at Gibeon (1 Chronicles 21:29). Traveling there made sense logistically, yet David stays at Ornan’s floor because God met him there. • He trusts the LORD’s chosen place more than established tradition or practicality. 4. Public Declaration of Hope • Continuing to sacrifice in sight of Jerusalem signals to the nation that God’s wrath is satisfied. • By worshiping openly, David shepherds Israel back to confidence in the LORD’s steadfast love (cf. Psalm 103:8–10). 5. Anticipation of Greater Mercy • This site becomes the temple mount (2 Chronicles 3:1). • David’s ongoing offerings express faith that God will plant a permanent house of mercy there, foreshadowing the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 9:11-12). Key Takeaways for Today • Mercy received should lead to worship repeated. • Where God clearly intervenes, stay near. • Trust moves from fear of punishment to confidence in fellowship (1 John 4:18). • God’s chosen substitute—ultimately Jesus—invites us to draw near “with confidence to the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16). Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 51:1 – “Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your loving devotion.” • Lamentations 3:22-23 – “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed.” • Hebrews 10:19-22 – Encouragement to approach God through the finished sacrifice of Christ. |
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