1 Chronicles 21:10

"Go and tell David that this is what the LORD says: 'I am offering you three options. Choose one of them, and I will carry it out against you.'"

Study Bible

Go and tell David
This phrase signifies a direct command from God to the prophet Gad, emphasizing the role of prophets as messengers between God and His chosen leaders. The Hebrew root for "go" (הלך, halak) often implies a journey or mission, underscoring the importance and urgency of the message. David, as the king, is reminded of his accountability to God, highlighting the biblical principle that leaders are subject to divine authority.

that this is what the LORD says
This phrase establishes the divine origin of the message, affirming the authority and sovereignty of God. The use of "LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) is significant, as it is the covenant name of God, reminding David of the special relationship and responsibilities he has as the leader of God's people. It underscores the seriousness of the communication and the expectation of obedience.

I am offering you three options
The phrase introduces a divine test or choice, reflecting God's justice and mercy. The Hebrew word for "offering" (נתן, natan) can also mean "to give" or "to set before," indicating that God is placing a decision in David's hands. This moment is pivotal, as it demonstrates God's willingness to involve human agency in the unfolding of His divine plan, while also serving as a lesson in the consequences of sin.

Choose one of them
Here, the emphasis is on personal responsibility and the exercise of free will. The Hebrew root for "choose" (בחר, bachar) implies a careful selection, often associated with making a decision that aligns with God's will. This choice is a test of David's wisdom and discernment, reflecting the broader biblical theme of choosing between obedience and disobedience.

for Me to carry out against you
This phrase highlights the direct involvement of God in the consequences of David's actions. The Hebrew word for "carry out" (עשה, asah) means "to do" or "to make," indicating that God Himself will execute the chosen consequence. It serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of divine judgment and the seriousness of sin, while also pointing to the hope of redemption and restoration through repentance and submission to God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, who sinned by conducting a census of the people, which was against God's will.

2. Gad
A prophet who served as David's seer, delivering God's messages to the king.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who communicates His will and judgment through the prophet Gad.

4. Israel
The nation over which David ruled, affected by the consequences of David's actions.

5. The Census
The event that triggered God's displeasure, as David counted the fighting men of Israel, relying on military strength rather than God's provision.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
David's decision to conduct a census was a significant sin because it demonstrated a lack of trust in God. This teaches us the importance of relying on God rather than our own resources or strength.

God's Justice and Mercy
The options given to David reflect both God's justice and His mercy. God allows David to choose the form of discipline, showing that while sin has consequences, God is also compassionate.

The Role of Prophets
Gad's role as a messenger highlights the importance of listening to God's appointed leaders and being open to correction and guidance.

Decision-Making and Consequences
David's situation reminds us that our decisions have consequences, and we must seek God's guidance in our choices to avoid negative outcomes.

Repentance and Restoration
Although David sinned, his response to God's discipline was one of repentance, which is crucial for restoration and maintaining a right relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does David's decision to conduct a census reveal about his spiritual state at that time, and how can we guard against similar lapses in our own lives?

2. How does the role of Gad as a prophet in this passage inform our understanding of spiritual leadership and accountability today?

3. In what ways does this passage illustrate the balance between God's justice and mercy, and how can we apply this understanding in our interactions with others?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for a decision. How did you see God's hand in the situation, and what did you learn from it?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of repentance like David's, and why is it essential for our spiritual growth and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional context and details about the census and its consequences.

Exodus 30:12
This verse outlines the requirement for a ransom when a census is taken, highlighting why David's action was sinful.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord rather than relying on one's own understanding, which David failed to do.

Hebrews 12:6
Discusses God's discipline, which is relevant to understanding the purpose of the options given to David.