1 Chronicles 28:1–21

Read the passage.

David assembles all of the people who were just listed in order to explain to them all of the plans that were listed previously. He gives a public proclamation of his intention to build a temple for the Lord, and how he was barred from carrying out that intention. Solomon is declared the Lord’s choice as David’s heir to the throne, over all of his brothers that may have thought they had a better claim. Remember that the Lord has always chosen differently than the human tradition of firstborn as primary heir. Jacob over Esau, Judah the fourth born over his brothers, Ephraim over Manasseh. David also reiterates the conditions set forth in the covenant the Lord made with him, namely that adherence to the Lord’s commands will keep the kingdom strong and the king’s rule secure. Failure to do this does not negate the Lord’s promise that David’s throne will have one of his descendants forever, but individual kings who fail to uphold the Law of God can and were removed from their position, usually after leading the kingdom into troubled times first.

In the sight of all the gathered people, David gives Solomon the plans he has drawn up for the temple, along with a bill of materials that he has gathered for its construction. Verse 19 shows that these plans were not merely David’s architectural work, but also inspired by the Holy Spirit. Remember that 1 & 2 Chronicles are written for the returning exiles from Babylon, and they will need the reminder that they are rebuilding the second temple to a specification.

David echoes Joshua’s exhortation to “be strong and courageous”. (v. 20) Because the Lord has commanded these things to be done, He will provide everything necessary to accomplish it, despite the size and difficulty of the task.

Your promises are firm and true. Your strength bears up our obedience.