but David could not go before it to inquire of God, because he was afraid of the sword of the angel of the LORD. but David could not go before it to inquire of GodDavid's inability to approach the altar signifies a moment of spiritual and emotional turmoil. This reflects the gravity of his sin in ordering the census, which was against God's will. The altar, located at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite, was a place where David intended to offer sacrifices to atone for his actions. The inability to inquire of God here highlights the separation sin creates between humanity and God, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture. This separation is reminiscent of Adam and Eve's expulsion from Eden and Israel's frequent estrangement from God due to disobedience. The need for a mediator, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, is underscored by David's predicament. because he was afraid of the sword of the angel of the LORD Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe King of Israel who is central to this account. He is known for his deep relationship with God but also for his human failings. 2. The Angel of the LORD A divine messenger who executes God's judgment, often seen as a representation of God's presence and power. 3. The Sword of the Angel Symbolizes God's judgment and the fear it instills, representing divine authority and the consequences of sin. 4. The Altar of the LORD The place where sacrifices are made, representing a point of communication and reconciliation with God. 5. The Threshing Floor of Araunah the Jebusite The location where David eventually builds an altar to the LORD, which later becomes the site of the Temple. Teaching Points The Fear of the LORDDavid's fear of the angel's sword reminds us of the importance of revering God's holiness and justice. It is a call to live with a healthy fear of the LORD, recognizing His power and authority over our lives. Repentance and Restoration David's inability to approach the altar due to fear highlights the barrier sin creates between us and God. However, it also points to the necessity of repentance and the hope of restoration through God's mercy. The Significance of Sacrifice The eventual building of an altar on the threshing floor signifies the importance of sacrifice in restoring fellowship with God. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who reconciles us to God. God's Sovereignty in Judgment The presence of the angel with a drawn sword underscores God's sovereignty in executing judgment. It serves as a reminder that God is just and His judgments are righteous. The Role of Fear in Faith While fear can be paralyzing, it can also lead us to deeper faith and reliance on God. David's fear ultimately leads him to seek God's mercy and guidance. Bible Study Questions 1. How does David's fear of the angel's sword reflect our own experiences with the fear of God's judgment?2. In what ways does the account of David's census and its consequences teach us about the importance of obedience to God? 3. How can we apply the concept of repentance and restoration in our daily walk with God, especially when we feel distant from Him? 4. What does the eventual building of the altar on the threshing floor teach us about God's provision and the significance of sacrifice? 5. How can we balance a healthy fear of the LORD with the assurance of His love and grace in our lives? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Samuel 24This parallel account provides additional context to the events in 1 Chronicles 21, highlighting David's census and the resulting plague. Genesis 22 The concept of a significant event occurring on a threshing floor connects to Abraham's sacrifice, emphasizing themes of obedience and divine provision. Hebrews 10:31 This verse speaks to the fear of falling into the hands of the living God, echoing David's fear of the angel's sword. Psalm 51 David's psalm of repentance, which reflects his heart posture when confronted with his sin and the need for God's mercy.
People Araunah, Benjamin, Dan, David, Gad, Gibeon, Israelites, Joab, Levi, OrnanPlaces Beersheba, Dan, Gath, Gibeon, JerusalemTopics Able, Afraid, Angel, Couldn't, David, Directions, Enquire, Fear, Inquire, Messenger, Seek, Sword, TerrifiedDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Chronicles 21:30Library "For what the Law could not Do, in that it was Weak through the Flesh, God Sending his Own Son in the Likeness of Sinful Flesh,Rom. viii. 3.--"For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin condemned sin in the flesh." For what purpose do we meet thus together? I would we knew it,--then it might be to some better purpose. In all other things we are rational, and do nothing of moment without some end and purpose. But, alas! in this matter of greatest moment, our going about divine ordinances, we have scarce any distinct or deliberate … Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, The Hardening in the Sacred Scripture. Chronicles Links 1 Chronicles 21:30 NIV1 Chronicles 21:30 NLT 1 Chronicles 21:30 ESV 1 Chronicles 21:30 NASB 1 Chronicles 21:30 KJV 1 Chronicles 21:30 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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