Bible Verse Commentary on 1 Chronicles 13:14

Verse: 1 Chronicles 13:14 - "And the ark of God remained with the family of Obed-edom in his house three months: and the Lord blessed the house of Obed-edom, and all that he had."

Understanding the Context

This verse occurs in the narrative of King David's intent to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. David's initial attempt was met with disaster (due to Uzzah's death), leading to the temporary placement of the Ark in the house of Obed-edom. This incident serves as a reminder of the reverence required when handling sacred objects.

Meaning and Significance

Commentators like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke all provide rich insights into this passage.

• Matthew Henry: He reflects on God's favor resting upon the household of Obed-edom, signifying that the presence of God brings blessings. Henry emphasizes the change in the Ark's location and how it illustrates God's justice and mercy.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes expounds on the nature of blessings that Obed-edom received. He notes that the household prospered materially and spiritually during the Ark's stay. Barnes further argues that the story highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands when approaching sacred matters.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke provides a practical perspective, relating the blessings in Obed-edom’s life to the spiritual prosperity that follows those who honor God. Clarke also addresses the societal implications of such blessings, observing that they would attract attention and provoke conversations about God's glory.

Bible Verse Meanings and Interpretations

The combination of insights from these commentaries leads to a deeper understanding of the verse:

• Divine Presence: The Ark symbolizes God's presence among His people, and its placement signifies the relationship between obedience and divine favor.
• Temporary Blessings: The blessings bestowed upon Obed-edom during the Ark's stay serve to illustrate how God's favor can manifest in various forms, including prosperity, health, and peace.
• Reverence for God: This passage teaches the importance of approaching God with proper reverence and care, highlighting past mistakes to encourage future obedience.

Application of the Verse in Daily Life

This verse invites us to reflect on how the presence of God influences our lives today. Just as Obed-edom experienced blessings through the Ark's presence, believers are encouraged to invite God's presence into their homes and lives with reverence and faith.

Cross References

This verse can be related to several other scripture passages:

• 2 Samuel 6:11-12: Discusses the same event surrounding the Ark's stay in Obed-edom's house.
• Psalm 23:6: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life..."—illustrating God's continual blessings.
• Hebrews 12:28: "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear."

Conclusion

In summary, 1 Chronicles 13:14 encapsulates the broader themes of divine presence, blessings from obedience, and the importance of reverence in worship. Drawing from various public domain commentaries enhances our understanding of this Bible verse and provides insights applicable to modern life. By studying this scripture, believers can cultivate a deeper relationship with God, ultimately leading to personal and communal blessings.