1 Chronicles 17:26

And now, O LORD, You are God! And You have promised this goodness to Your servant.

Study Bible

And now, O LORD, You are God!
This phrase acknowledges the sovereignty and divinity of the LORD, a central theme throughout the Bible. The declaration "You are God" is a recognition of God's unique position as the one true God, contrasting with the polytheistic beliefs of surrounding nations. This echoes the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." It emphasizes the monotheistic faith of Israel and the personal relationship between God and His people. The use of "O LORD" reflects the covenant name of God, Yahweh, highlighting His eternal and unchanging nature.

And You have promised this goodness
The "goodness" refers to the promises God made to David earlier in the chapter, specifically the establishment of his dynasty and the coming of a future king, which Christians understand as a messianic prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ. This promise is part of the Davidic Covenant, a pivotal moment in biblical history where God assures David that his throne will be established forever (2 Samuel 7:16). The concept of divine promise is a recurring theme, seen in God's covenants with Abraham, Moses, and ultimately fulfilled in the New Covenant through Christ.

to Your servant.
David refers to himself as "Your servant," demonstrating humility and submission to God's will. This title is significant, as it reflects the biblical ideal of leadership as service, a theme that Jesus Christ exemplifies in the New Testament (Mark 10:45). The term "servant" also connects David to other key figures in the Bible, such as Moses and the prophets, who were called servants of God. This phrase underscores the personal relationship between God and David, highlighting the intimacy and faithfulness expected in the covenant relationship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, a man after God's own heart, who is expressing his gratitude and acknowledgment of God's promises.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who has made promises to David regarding his lineage and the future of his kingdom.

3. Nathan the Prophet
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Nathan is the prophet who conveyed God's promises to David earlier in the chapter.

4. Jerusalem
The city where David's throne is established and where he receives God's promises.

5. The Davidic Covenant
The divine promise made by God to David, ensuring that his lineage would endure and that his kingdom would be established forever.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty
Recognize and affirm God's ultimate authority and faithfulness in our lives, as David did.

Trust in God's Promises
Just as David trusted in God's promises, we are called to trust in the promises God has made to us through His Word.

Gratitude for God's Goodness
Cultivate a heart of gratitude for the goodness and blessings God has bestowed upon us, acknowledging His hand in our lives.

Understanding the Davidic Covenant
Study the significance of the Davidic Covenant and its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, deepening our understanding of God's redemptive plan.

Living in Light of God's Faithfulness
Let the assurance of God's faithfulness inspire us to live obediently and faithfully, knowing that He keeps His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's acknowledgment of God in 1 Chronicles 17:26 inspire you to recognize God's sovereignty in your own life?

2. In what ways can you see the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant in the New Testament, particularly in the life and ministry of Jesus?

3. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude for God's promises and goodness in your daily life?

4. What are some specific promises from God that you are holding onto, and how do they impact your faith journey?

5. How does understanding the connection between the Old Testament covenants and the New Testament fulfillment in Christ deepen your appreciation for God's faithfulness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 7
This chapter parallels 1 Chronicles 17 and provides the original account of God's covenant with David, emphasizing the eternal nature of David's throne.

Psalm 89
This psalm reflects on the Davidic Covenant, celebrating God's faithfulness and the enduring promise to David's line.

Luke 1:32-33
The angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary about Jesus, affirming that He will inherit the throne of David, fulfilling the covenant.

Hebrews 1:8
This verse speaks of the eternal throne of the Son, connecting to the promise of an everlasting kingdom through David's line.