Understanding 1 Chronicles 21:23

The verse 1 Chronicles 21:23 reads:

"And Ornan said unto David, Take it to thee, and let my lord the king do that which is good in his eyes: lo, I give thee the oxen also for burnt offerings, and the threshing instruments for wood, and the wheat for the meat offering; I give it all."

This verse is pivotal in understanding the themes of sacrifice, submission, and divine worship within the Old Testament. Below, we explore various insights derived from classic public domain commentaries.

Contextual Background

David, having enumerated the people of Israel, faced God's judgment. In response to his actions, he sought to build an altar to the Lord, which brings him to Ornan's threshing floor. This location is significant, as it becomes the future site of the Temple.

Verse Commentary

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary:

  Matthew Henry notes that Ornan's response reflects humility and a willingness to serve God. His offer of the oxen, wood, and grain symbolizes the true essence of sacrifice in worship, showcasing a heart inclined toward worship over personal gain.

• Albert Barnes’ Notes:

  Barnes emphasizes the honor in Ornan's gesture towards David. Ornan’s willingness to give without charge illustrates a spirit of generosity. It expresses his recognition of David’s kingship and the sacred nature of the sacrifices needed to assess divine mercy.

• Adam Clarke’s Commentary:

  Clarke provides insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of offerings in Israel. He points out that Ornan’s offering can be seen as an act of obedience and submission to God's will, linking it to the broader theme of submission that characterizes the worship of Yahweh.

Theological Implications

The understanding drawn from 1 Chronicles 21:23 aligns with several theological themes:

• Generosity in Worship: Ornan’s selfless offer rivals the spirit of generosity that believers are encouraged to embody in worship and service.
• Divine Worship Requirements: This interaction reflects on the conditions for worship. Genuine worship often requires sacrifice, whether in resources, time, or effort.
• Submission to Authority: Ornan's submission to David signifies the proper response of subjects to kingship, pointing to ultimate submission to God's authority.

Related Bible Verses

This verse has several cross-references that deepen the understanding of its themes:

• 2 Samuel 24:24 - David’s insistence on paying for the land signifies the importance of sacrifice in worship.
• Leviticus 1:3 - Outlines the burnt offerings required demonstrating God’s expectations from His people.
• Hebrews 13:16 - Encourages believers to do good and share with others, echoing Ornan's generous spirit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 1 Chronicles 21:23 invites readers to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice, the spirit of giving, and the importance of submission to God’s will. The act of offering touches on deeper elements of worship that transcend the simple act of giving and resonates with the broader themes of the Bible regarding God's relationship with His people.

Further Study

To gain a more profound insight into this verse, consider engaging with Bible study resources and tools. Group discussions or online Bible study can further enrich understanding through collective exploration of the Scripture.

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