1 Chronicles 11:6

Now David had said, "Whoever is the first to strike down a Jebusite will become chief commander." And Joab son of Zeruiah went up first, and he became the chief.

Study Bible

Now David had said
This phrase indicates a direct command or challenge from David, the newly anointed king over all Israel. It reflects his leadership style and strategic thinking. David's words often carried significant weight, as he was seen as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). His leadership was crucial in uniting the tribes of Israel and establishing Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center.

“Whoever is the first to strike down a Jebusite
The Jebusites were the original inhabitants of Jerusalem, a Canaanite tribe that had not been fully driven out during the initial conquest of the Promised Land (Joshua 15:63). David's challenge to strike down a Jebusite highlights the ongoing struggle to fully possess the land God had promised to Israel. This act was not just a military conquest but also a fulfillment of God's promises to His people. The Jebusites' stronghold in Jerusalem was a significant obstacle, and David's challenge was a call to overcome this barrier.

will become chief commander.”
This promise of becoming chief commander was a significant incentive. In the ancient Near Eastern context, military leadership was a prestigious and powerful position. David's offer reflects the importance of valor and initiative in his administration. It also shows David's willingness to reward those who demonstrated loyalty and bravery, qualities that were essential for the leaders of Israel.

And Joab son of Zeruiah went up first,
Joab, a key figure in David's military campaigns, was David's nephew, the son of Zeruiah, David's sister. His actions here demonstrate his ambition and military prowess. Joab's willingness to take on the challenge reflects his character as a bold and decisive leader. His relationship with David was complex, marked by both loyalty and tension, as seen in various accounts throughout David's reign (2 Samuel 3:27, 2 Samuel 18:14).

and he became the chief.
Joab's success in this challenge secured his position as the chief commander of David's army. This role was crucial in the establishment and expansion of David's kingdom. Joab's leadership was instrumental in many of David's military victories, although his methods and decisions were sometimes controversial. His appointment as chief commander fulfilled David's promise and set the stage for future military campaigns that would solidify Israel's dominance in the region.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed king of Israel, known for his leadership and heart for God. In this passage, he is establishing his rule over Jerusalem.

2. Joab
The son of Zeruiah, David's sister, making him David's nephew. Joab is a prominent military leader in David's army and becomes chief commander by taking initiative in this event.

3. Jebusites
The original inhabitants of Jerusalem, a Canaanite tribe that David's forces needed to conquer to establish Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

4. Jerusalem
Also known as Jebus at the time, it becomes the political and spiritual center of Israel under David's rule.

5. Zeruiah
David's sister and the mother of Joab, Abishai, and Asahel, all of whom were significant figures in David's military.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Initiative
David's challenge to his men highlights the importance of initiative in leadership. Joab's willingness to act decisively earned him a position of authority. In our lives, taking initiative in service to God can lead to greater responsibilities and opportunities.

Faith and Action
The conquest of Jerusalem required both faith in God's promises and action to fulfill them. Similarly, believers are called to trust in God's plans and actively participate in His work.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
The appointment of leaders, like Joab, demonstrates God's sovereignty in establishing authority. We should pray for and support our leaders, trusting that God is at work through them.

The Importance of Jerusalem
This event marks the beginning of Jerusalem's central role in Israel's history. Understanding its significance helps us appreciate its place in biblical prophecy and God's redemptive plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities did Joab demonstrate by being the first to strike down the Jebusites, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

2. How does the conquest of Jerusalem by David's forces reflect God's promises to Israel, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness?

3. In what ways can we take initiative in our spiritual lives and communities, similar to Joab's actions in this passage?

4. How does the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital city relate to its future significance in biblical prophecy and the life of Jesus?

5. What can we learn from David's leadership style in this passage, and how can we apply these lessons in our roles within the church and society?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 5:6-10
This passage provides a parallel account of David's conquest of Jerusalem, offering additional details about the strategy and significance of the event.

1 Chronicles 27:34
This verse lists Joab as the commander of the army, confirming his long-term role and influence in David's reign.

Psalm 122
Written by David, this psalm reflects the significance of Jerusalem as a place of worship and unity for the tribes of Israel.