You Can Read the Bible

The focus on David’s warriors and leaders continues as the king, at the beginning of chapter 13, turns to all the assembly of Israel and asks, “If it seems good to you and from the LORD our God, let us send abroad to our brothers who remain in all Israel, as well as to the priests and Levites in the cities and the pastureland, that they may be gathered to us.  Then let us bring again the ark of our God to us, for we did not seek it in the days of Saul.” 

Notice how the author presents King David: he seeks the counsel of his subjects, is concerned for the favor of the LORD, and wants to make his coronation a celebration of Israel finally being “at rest.”  With Jerusalem conquered and the Philistines subdued, Joshua’s mission is finally accomplished.  And the proper, first task of a land at rest is to grant the Ark of the Covenant a place of rest as well.

The theme of national unity is prominent today, but notice that this unity is around David.  And the affirmation is warranted, for David is shown worshipping the LORD, fearing the LORD, and inquiring of the LORD before battle.  Furthermore, the LORD speaks to David and grants him victory in battle.  David’s response, of gratitude and celebration, reflects the best intentions of Deuteronomy 17, which outlines fearing the LORD and remaining grounded with the flock as among the primary tasks for Israel’s shepherd. 

Yesterday I highlighted some of the ways that Chronicles differs from Samuel and Kings, with so much material lifted from those earlier works.  Indeed, today’s accounts of moving the Ark, fighting the Philistines, David dancing, and his wife’s response, are pretty much taken directly out of 2 Samuel.  However, we’re going to avoid the temptation to simply compare the different works.  Let’s assume that there are reasons inherent in Chronicles itself that merit its inclusion in the Bible.  The author has a unique story to tell, and we’re going to grant it the integrity it deserves. 

Our verse for this week is Matthew 5:16: In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

1 Chronicles 13 through 15.  Now let’s read it!

1 Chronicles 13 - 15

You Can Read the Bible is supported by Bellefield Presbyterian Church and blessed with its wonderful volunteers, including: Dave Moore, Jose David Aguilar Posada, Meagan Carter, Fiona Carter, Tanya Carter, Greg Burdette, Madeline Kulp, Andie Young, Justin Ray, Gary Liberati, Maureen Hinchman, Ken MacLeod, John Dolan, Roberto Cantillo, Charlei George, Josh Brown, Jeanne Griffith, Zachary Fritts, Dan Hinchman, Sophia Young, Lynette MacLeod, Gladys Cantillo, Grace Watson, Marianne Seah, Ian MacLeod, Liz Zimmerman, August Hall, Paza Boyd, Kristin Horner, Daniel Young, Paul Griffoen, Ben Moore, Meredith Carter, Bob Willson, Rosie Wagoner, Nick Bersin, Rhonda Hall, Helen Dolby, Emily Moore, Rick Zimmerman, Matt Jones, Kiana Jones, Jane Carter, Marilyn Long, Renee Hairston, Heather Weaver, Carol Williams, Anita Woolley, Andrew Thorpe, Emily Wenz, Matt Carter, and many others.

A special note of thanks to Dave Moore, the Moore family, Maureen Hinchman, the Hinchman family, Jose Posada, the Posada family, and to the Carter family. This would not have happened without your unwavering efforts, sacrifice, and support! Thank you!

We provide You Can Read the Bible in all of its many forms and formats as a ministry service to grow disciples within the church universal. This is not a substitute for your local church community, but it could be a resource to use within your local church and for you personally.