1 Chronicles 16:29

Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and come before Him. Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness;

Study Bible

Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name;
This phrase emphasizes the importance of recognizing and declaring the greatness and majesty of God. In the biblical context, "ascribe" means to attribute or give credit. The name of the LORD represents His character and deeds, which are worthy of honor and praise. This call to ascribe glory is a recurring theme in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 29:2) and reflects the understanding that God alone is deserving of worship. The concept of God's name being due glory is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where His acts of deliverance and provision are celebrated.

bring an offering and come before Him.
In ancient Israel, offerings were a central part of worship and were seen as a tangible expression of devotion and gratitude to God. The act of bringing an offering signifies acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision. Historically, offerings included sacrifices of animals, grain, and other goods, which were presented at the Tabernacle or Temple. This practice is connected to the sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus, which foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Coming before God with an offering also implies entering His presence with reverence and humility.

Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness;
Worship in this context is an act of reverence and adoration directed towards God. The "splendor of His holiness" highlights the purity, majesty, and otherness of God. Holiness is a defining attribute of God, setting Him apart from all creation. This phrase calls believers to recognize and respond to God's holiness with awe and respect. The idea of worshiping in holiness is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 96:9, and points to the need for worshipers to approach God with clean hands and pure hearts, as seen in Psalm 24:3-4. The splendor of God's holiness is ultimately revealed in Jesus Christ, who embodies divine holiness and invites believers into a holy relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The king of Israel who organized the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and led the people in worship and thanksgiving to God.

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence with His people.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the Ark was brought, symbolizing the central place of worship for the Israelites.

4. Levites
The tribe assigned to care for the Ark and lead the people in worship, playing a crucial role in the religious life of Israel.

5. Tabernacle
The temporary dwelling place for the Ark before the construction of the Temple, representing God's dwelling among His people.

Teaching Points

Ascribing Glory to God
Recognize that giving glory to God is acknowledging His supreme worth and majesty. This involves both our words and actions, reflecting His character in our daily lives.

Bringing an Offering
Understand that offerings are not just material but include our time, talents, and resources. We are called to give sacrificially and joyfully as an act of worship.

Worship in Holiness
Worship should be conducted with reverence and purity, recognizing the holiness of God. This calls for a heart that is set apart and dedicated to Him.

The Splendor of Holiness
Appreciate the beauty and majesty of God's holiness, which should inspire awe and reverence in our worship practices.

Corporate Worship
Engage in communal worship, recognizing the importance of gathering with other believers to honor God collectively, as seen in the assembly led by David.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we practically "ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name" in our daily lives?

2. What are some ways we can bring offerings to God beyond financial giving?

3. How does understanding God's holiness impact the way we approach worship?

4. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is conducted in "the splendor of His holiness"?

5. How does corporate worship enhance our personal relationship with God, and what role does it play in our spiritual growth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 96:8
This verse echoes the call to ascribe glory to the Lord, emphasizing the universal call to worship God.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, connecting the idea of bringing an offering to God with living a life of worship.

Hebrews 13:15
Encourages believers to continually offer a sacrifice of praise, linking the concept of worship with verbal expressions of gratitude and honor to God.