1 Chronicles 21:24

"No," replied King David, "I insist on paying the full price, for I will not take for the LORD what belongs to you, nor will I offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing."

Study Bible

“No,” replied King David,
This phrase highlights David's firm response, indicating his determination and leadership. David, as king, had the authority to command or take what he needed, yet he chooses to respond with integrity. This reflects his character and commitment to doing what is right in the eyes of God. David's response is a model of humility and righteousness, showing that true leadership involves making decisions that honor God.

“I insist on paying the full price,”
David's insistence on paying the full price for the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite demonstrates his understanding of the value of sacrifice. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, offerings to God were meant to be costly, reflecting the worshiper's devotion and reverence. By paying the full price, David ensures that his offering is genuine and not merely a token gesture. This act prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who paid the full price for humanity's sins.

“for I will not take for the LORD what belongs to you,”
David acknowledges the principle of ownership and stewardship. He recognizes that taking something that belongs to someone else and offering it to God would not be a true sacrifice. This respect for personal property aligns with the biblical commandment against coveting and stealing. It also underscores the importance of giving to God from one's own resources, a theme echoed in the New Testament where believers are encouraged to give willingly and cheerfully.

“nor will I offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.”
This phrase encapsulates the essence of sacrificial worship. In the Old Testament, burnt offerings were a significant part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God. David's refusal to offer something that cost him nothing highlights the principle that true worship involves personal sacrifice and commitment. This foreshadows the sacrificial nature of Christ's atonement, where He gave Himself fully and willingly. The concept of costly sacrifice is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing that genuine faith and devotion require giving up something valuable for the sake of honoring God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and his leadership. In this passage, he demonstrates integrity and devotion to God.

2. Araunah
A Jebusite who owned the threshing floor where David intended to build an altar to the LORD. He offered it to David for free.

3. Threshing Floor of Araunah
The location where David decided to build an altar to stop the plague that had come upon Israel due to his sin of conducting a census.

4. The Plague
A divine punishment sent by God as a result of David's sin of numbering the people, which was against God's command.

5. Burnt Offering
A sacrificial offering made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication. David's insistence on paying for the offering underscores the principle of sacrifice.

Teaching Points

The Cost of True Worship
True worship involves sacrifice. David's refusal to offer to God something that cost him nothing teaches us that genuine worship requires personal investment and sacrifice.

Integrity in Leadership
David's decision to pay the full price reflects his integrity and responsibility as a leader. Leaders are called to set an example of righteousness and accountability.

Repentance and Restoration
David's actions demonstrate a heart of repentance. When we sin, we must seek restoration with God, often requiring us to make amends and offer our best to Him.

God's Mercy and Justice
The account shows God's justice in response to sin but also His mercy in providing a way for restoration. We are reminded of the balance between God's holiness and His grace.

Personal Sacrifice in Service
Serving God often requires personal sacrifice. We are called to give our time, resources, and talents willingly, not out of compulsion or convenience.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does David's insistence on paying for the threshing floor teach us about the nature of true worship and sacrifice?

2. How can we apply the principle of offering God our best in our daily lives and spiritual practices?

3. In what ways does David's response to his sin provide a model for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness?

4. How does the account of David and Araunah's threshing floor connect to the broader biblical theme of sacrifice and atonement?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a personal sacrifice in your walk with God. How did it impact your relationship with Him and your understanding of worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional context to the events in 1 Chronicles 21, highlighting David's repentance and God's mercy.

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac, which parallels the theme of costly sacrifice and obedience to God.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a connection to the idea of giving God our best.