What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 21:14? So the LORD sent a plague upon Israel - The connective “So” links directly to David’s sinful census in 1 Chronicles 21:1–13; the plague is not random but a divinely ordered consequence. - Scripture consistently shows the LORD acting decisively against corporate sin: in Exodus 9:14 He says, “I will send all My plagues on you… so you will know there is no one like Me,” and in Numbers 16:46-48 He stops a rebellion with a swift plague. The same righteous character is on display here. - The text states “the LORD sent,” underscoring His absolute sovereignty. There is no hint of chance; judgment flows from His holy nature, just as Amos 3:6 reminds us, “If calamity comes to a city, has not the LORD caused it?” - Yet even in judgment God remains measured. Verse 15 immediately notes the angel’s hand is stopped at Jerusalem, echoing Psalm 103:9—“He will not always accuse, nor harbor His anger forever.” Mercy governs how far judgment may go. and seventy thousand men of Israel fell dead - The staggering death toll highlights the seriousness of sin. As in the parallel account, 2 Samuel 24:15 says, “and seventy thousand men of the people, from Dan to Beersheba, died.” Such nationwide loss underscores that rebellion against God has communal fallout. - Similar lessons appear elsewhere: after Achan’s hidden sin, Joshua 7:5 records thirty-six deaths; here the cost is far higher, reminding us that hidden pride (David’s census) can be as deadly as blatant idolatry. - The number also contrasts the LORD’s usual protection. When Judah relied on Him, “the LORD struck down the Cushites before Asa” (2 Chronicles 14:12). Dependence brings deliverance; self-reliance invites disaster. - Though severe, the judgment is limited: seventy thousand out of hundreds of thousands. God’s wrath is real, yet controlled, foreshadowing the ultimate restraint shown at the cross where wrath is poured on Christ rather than on us (Romans 5:9). summary 1 Chronicles 21:14 teaches that God personally and justly intervenes when His people sin. He sends the plague, proving His sovereignty; He limits it, proving His mercy. The heavy loss shows that sin—especially prideful self-reliance—carries grave, communal consequences. Even so, the LORD’s swift restraint points to a heart ready to forgive when repentance and atonement are sought. |
    |