1 Chronicles 29:1

Then King David said to the whole assembly, "My son Solomon, the one whom God has chosen, is young and inexperienced. The task is great because this palace is not for man, but for the LORD God.

Study Bible

Then King David said to the whole assembly
This phrase sets the stage for a significant moment in Israel's history. King David, the revered leader, addresses the entire assembly of Israel, indicating the importance of the message. The Hebrew word for "assembly" is "qahal," which often refers to a gathering of God's people for a sacred purpose. This context underscores the communal and divine nature of the task at hand, emphasizing that the building of the temple is a national and spiritual endeavor.

My son Solomon
David refers to Solomon as "my son," highlighting the personal and familial aspect of the transition of leadership. Solomon, whose name in Hebrew, "Shlomo," is derived from "shalom," meaning peace, signifies the peaceful reign that will follow David's turbulent years of war. This transition is not just a change in leadership but a fulfillment of God's promise to David that his son would build the temple.

the one whom God has chosen
This phrase emphasizes divine selection and approval. The Hebrew word for "chosen" is "bachar," which conveys the idea of being selected for a specific purpose. Solomon's selection by God underscores the divine will and purpose behind his kingship and the building of the temple. It reassures the assembly that this is not merely a human decision but a fulfillment of God's sovereign plan.

is young and inexperienced
David acknowledges Solomon's youth and lack of experience, which in Hebrew is "na'ar" (young) and "rak" (inexperienced or tender). This admission highlights the need for divine guidance and support. It also serves as a call to the assembly to support Solomon, recognizing that the task ahead requires collective effort and reliance on God's wisdom.

The task is great
The "task" refers to the building of the temple, a monumental project both in physical and spiritual terms. The Hebrew word "melachah" implies work or craftsmanship, indicating the complexity and significance of the endeavor. This statement sets the tone for the seriousness and magnitude of the undertaking, which is not just a construction project but a sacred mission.

because this palatial structure
The term "palatial structure" refers to the temple, described in Hebrew as "habayit," meaning "the house." This description elevates the temple as a royal and divine residence, befitting the King of Kings. It signifies the temple's role as the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

is not for man, but for the LORD God
This phrase underscores the temple's divine purpose. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. The temple is not a monument to human achievement but a sacred space dedicated to the worship and glory of God. This distinction calls the people to a higher purpose, reminding them that their efforts are ultimately for God's honor and not human pride.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and leadership. Here, he is addressing the assembly about the future temple.

2. Solomon
David's son, chosen by God to succeed him as king and to build the temple. He is described as young and inexperienced.

3. The Assembly
The gathered leaders and people of Israel whom David addresses, emphasizing the communal nature of the temple project.

4. The Temple (Palatial Structure)
The grand temple that Solomon is to build, dedicated to the LORD, signifying its divine purpose and importance.

5. The LORD God
The God of Israel, for whom the temple is being constructed, highlighting the sacredness of the task.

Teaching Points

God's Choice and Human Inadequacy
God often chooses those who seem inadequate by human standards to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Solomon's youth and inexperience.

The Importance of Divine Purpose
The temple's construction is a reminder that our work should be for God's glory, not for human recognition.

Leadership and Preparation
David's preparation for Solomon's task highlights the importance of preparing the next generation for leadership and service to God.

Community Involvement in God's Work
The assembly's involvement shows that fulfilling God's purposes often requires communal effort and support.

Trust in God's Provision
Despite human limitations, trusting in God's provision and guidance is crucial for accomplishing His plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's acknowledgment of Solomon's inexperience challenge our views on leadership and capability in serving God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our work and efforts are dedicated to the LORD rather than for personal gain or recognition?

3. How can we, like David, prepare and support the next generation in their spiritual and leadership journeys?

4. What role does community play in fulfilling God's purposes, and how can we foster a sense of communal responsibility in our church or group?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate for a task God called you to. How did you experience His provision and guidance in that situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:7
Solomon's acknowledgment of his youth and inexperience when he asks God for wisdom, paralleling David's description of him.

1 Samuel 16:12-13
David's own anointing as king, showing the continuity of God's choice in leadership from David to Solomon.

Exodus 25:8-9
The instructions for the tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple, emphasizing the importance of a dwelling place for God among His people.

2 Chronicles 2:5-6
Solomon's recognition of the temple's purpose as a house for God, reinforcing the idea that it is not for man but for the LORD.