1 Chronicles 15:13

It was because you Levites were not with us the first time that the LORD our God burst forth in anger against us. For we did not consult Him about the proper order."

Study Bible

It was because you Levites were not with us the first time
The Levites were designated by God to be the tribe responsible for the care and transport of the Ark of the Covenant (Numbers 4:15). Their absence in the initial attempt to move the Ark (1 Chronicles 13) was a significant oversight. This highlights the importance of following God's specific instructions, as the Levites were set apart for holy service (Deuteronomy 10:8). The failure to include them reflects a neglect of divine order and a misunderstanding of the sacredness of their role.

that the LORD our God burst forth in anger against us.
The phrase "burst forth in anger" recalls the incident with Uzzah, who was struck down for touching the Ark (1 Chronicles 13:10). This demonstrates God's holiness and the seriousness of approaching Him with reverence and obedience. The Ark represented God's presence, and mishandling it was a direct violation of His commands. This event serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the need for proper worship.

For we did not consult Him about the proper order.”
David acknowledges the failure to seek God's guidance in the process of moving the Ark. This reflects a broader biblical principle of seeking God's will in all matters (Proverbs 3:5-6). The "proper order" refers to the specific instructions given in the Law regarding the transport of the Ark (Exodus 25:14-15). This oversight emphasizes the importance of adhering to God's Word and the necessity of consulting Him in all decisions, a theme echoed throughout Scripture (James 1:5).

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who sought to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. His initial attempt failed due to not following God's prescribed method.

2. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel.

3. Uzzah
A man who died when he touched the Ark during the first attempt to transport it, highlighting the importance of following God's instructions.

4. Levites
The tribe chosen by God to carry the Ark. Their role was crucial in the proper handling and transportation of the Ark.

5. Jerusalem
The city where David intended to bring the Ark, establishing it as the religious and political center of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
God's instructions are not arbitrary; they are given for our protection and blessing. David's initial failure to transport the Ark correctly serves as a reminder of the necessity of obedience to God's Word.

Consulting God in All Matters
David's acknowledgment of not consulting God highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance in all aspects of life, especially in matters of worship and service.

Reverence for the Holy
The incident with Uzzah underscores the need for reverence and respect for the things of God. We must approach God with the honor and respect He deserves.

Learning from Past Mistakes
David's correction of his previous error shows the value of learning from past mistakes and making necessary changes to align with God's will.

Role of Spiritual Leadership
The Levites' role in carrying the Ark illustrates the importance of spiritual leadership and the responsibility leaders have in guiding others according to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from David's initial failure to transport the Ark, and how can we apply these lessons to our own lives?

2. How does the incident with Uzzah challenge our understanding of God's holiness and our approach to worship?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are consulting God in our decisions and actions, both individually and as a community?

4. How can spiritual leaders today take inspiration from the Levites' role in this passage to guide their congregations?

5. Reflect on a time when you learned from a past mistake. How did that experience help you grow in your faith and obedience to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 6
This chapter provides a parallel account of the transportation of the Ark and the incident with Uzzah, emphasizing the need for reverence and obedience to God's commands.

Exodus 25:14
This verse outlines the specific instructions given by God for carrying the Ark, which were initially ignored by David and his men.

Numbers 4:15
Details the duties of the Levites in handling the holy objects, underscoring the importance of following divine instructions.