1 Chronicles 21:24

"No," replied King David, "I insist on paying the full price, for I will not take for the LORD what belongs to you, nor will I offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing."

Study Bible

No, replied King David
This phrase highlights David's firm and immediate response. The Hebrew word for "No" is "לֹא" (lo), which is a strong negation. David's reply is decisive, reflecting his understanding of the gravity of the situation. As king, David's words carry authority, and his decision to refuse the offer without hesitation underscores his commitment to righteousness and integrity. Historically, David is known as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), and this moment is a testament to his character and leadership.

I insist on paying the full price
The insistence on paying "the full price" demonstrates David's recognition of the value and cost of true worship. The Hebrew word for "insist" is "אָמַר" (amar), which can also mean to declare or affirm. David's determination to pay the full price reflects his understanding that worship should be sacrificial and not convenient. This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, where offerings to God are meant to be meaningful and costly, symbolizing the worshiper's devotion and reverence.

for I will not take for the LORD what is yours
David's refusal to take what belongs to another for the purpose of offering it to the LORD highlights his respect for both God and his fellow man. The Hebrew word for "take" is "לָקַח" (laqach), which implies acquiring or seizing. David's decision not to take what is not rightfully his aligns with the biblical principle of justice and fairness. It also reflects the understanding that offerings to God should be personal and come from one's own resources, emphasizing the sincerity and authenticity of the worship.

or offer a burnt offering that costs me nothing
The concept of a "burnt offering" in Hebrew is "עֹלָה" (olah), which signifies a sacrifice that is completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total surrender to God. David's statement that he will not offer something that "costs me nothing" reveals his deep understanding of the sacrificial system. True worship and sacrifice require personal cost and investment. This principle is foundational in the biblical narrative, where sacrifices are meant to reflect the heart and commitment of the worshiper. David's stance is a powerful reminder that genuine worship involves giving of oneself and one's resources, echoing the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who gave Himself fully for humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and his leadership. In this passage, he demonstrates integrity and devotion to God.

2. Araunah
A Jebusite who owned the threshing floor where David intended to build an altar to the LORD. He offered it to David for free.

3. Threshing Floor of Araunah
The location where David decided to build an altar to stop the plague that had come upon Israel due to his sin of conducting a census.

4. The Plague
A divine punishment sent by God as a result of David's sin of numbering the people, which was against God's command.

5. Burnt Offering
A sacrificial offering made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication. David's insistence on paying for the offering underscores the principle of sacrifice.

Teaching Points

The Cost of True Worship
True worship involves sacrifice. David's refusal to offer to God something that cost him nothing teaches us that genuine worship requires personal investment and sacrifice.

Integrity in Leadership
David's decision to pay the full price reflects his integrity and responsibility as a leader. Leaders are called to set an example of righteousness and accountability.

Repentance and Restoration
David's actions demonstrate a heart of repentance. When we sin, we must seek restoration with God, often requiring us to make amends and offer our best to Him.

God's Mercy and Justice
The account shows God's justice in response to sin but also His mercy in providing a way for restoration. We are reminded of the balance between God's holiness and His grace.

Personal Sacrifice in Service
Serving God often requires personal sacrifice. We are called to give our time, resources, and talents willingly, not out of compulsion or convenience.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does David's insistence on paying for the threshing floor teach us about the nature of true worship and sacrifice?

2. How can we apply the principle of offering God our best in our daily lives and spiritual practices?

3. In what ways does David's response to his sin provide a model for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness?

4. How does the account of David and Araunah's threshing floor connect to the broader biblical theme of sacrifice and atonement?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a personal sacrifice in your walk with God. How did it impact your relationship with Him and your understanding of worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional context to the events in 1 Chronicles 21, highlighting David's repentance and God's mercy.

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac, which parallels the theme of costly sacrifice and obedience to God.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a connection to the idea of giving God our best.