What does 1 Chronicles 22:16 mean?
What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 22:16?

Gold and silver

“gold and silver” (1 Chronicles 22:16)

• David has already “dedicated the gold and silver” he conquered to the house of the LORD (1 Chronicles 18:11). The huge reserves he passes to Solomon underline God’s faithful provision—He supplies every need for His work (Philippians 4:19).

• Gold speaks of purity and divine glory (Exodus 25:10-11; Revelation 21:18). Silver often pictures redemption and value (Exodus 30:11-16). In the temple these metals broadcast that worship must be both pure and costly.

• By listing them first, David reminds Solomon that the most precious resources are already in place. The young king can proceed with confidence, knowing the LORD has front-loaded the project with abundant riches.


Bronze and iron—craftsmen beyond number

“bronze and iron—craftsmen beyond number”

• Bronze and iron emphasize durability and strength (1 Kings 7:15; Deuteronomy 8:9). They will form the pillars, basins, and structural supports that make daily ministry possible.

• “Craftsmen beyond number” echoes how the Spirit filled Bezalel and Oholiab with skill for the tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-6). God once again provides capable people in overwhelming supply (2 Chronicles 2:7).

• The sheer scale—materials piled high and workers without limit—testifies that the temple is no ordinary building. It proclaims the greatness of the God who is about to dwell among His people (2 Chronicles 6:18).


Now begin the work

“Now begin the work”

• Preparation must turn into action. David’s charge mirrors his later words: “Be strong and do it” (1 Chronicles 28:10). Faith expresses itself through obedience (James 2:17).

• Delayed obedience risks drifting; immediate obedience delights the LORD (Psalm 119:60).

• The command answers every excuse Solomon might raise: supplies, workers, plans—everything is ready. All that remains is wholehearted engagement.


And may the LORD be with you

“and may the LORD be with you.”

• David invokes the covenant name, assuring Solomon of God’s personal presence (Exodus 3:14-15). The same promise bookends Scripture—“I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20).

• With God alongside, opposition cannot prevail (Romans 8:31). Success is measured not only in completed stones and ornaments but in the ongoing fellowship between King, people, and their God (1 Chronicles 22:11-13).

• The blessing roots the entire venture in divine partnership: human labor undergirded by heavenly power (Psalm 127:1).


summary

1 Chronicles 22:16 assures Solomon that God has already supplied abundant precious metals, strong materials, and limitless skilled workers. David calls him to translate this provision into decisive action, confident that the LORD Himself will accompany the effort. The verse blends divine generosity, human responsibility, and covenant presence, encouraging every believer to step boldly into God-assigned tasks, trusting that He equips, sustains, and dwells with those who obey.

Why is the mention of 'stonecutters, masons, and carpenters' significant in 1 Chronicles 22:15?
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