1 Chronicles 21:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Chronicles 21:24
24 And king David said to Ornan, Nay; but I will verily buy it for the full price: for I will not take that which is thine for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings without cost.
Chapter Context
1 Chronicles 21 is a historical and genealogical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, discipleship, righteousness. Written during the post-exilic reflection on David's reign (c. 430-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written after exile to reestablish national identity through connection to David's lineage.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Chronicles and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Chronicles 21:24
24 And king David said to Ornan, Nay; but I will verily buy it for the full price: for I will not take that which is thine for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings without cost.
Analysis
David's response to Araunah's offer to give the threshing floor free: 'And king David said to Ornan, Nay; but I will verily buy it for the full price: for I will not take that which is thine for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings without cost.' This principle - refusing to offer God what costs nothing - demonstrates that acceptable worship requires sacrifice. David rejected the easy path of accepting a gift, insisting on paying full price. This teaches that genuine worship is costly, not convenient. The threshing floor would become the temple site, making this purchase foundational to Israel's worship. Christ supremely embodied this principle, offering His life at infinite cost for our salvation.
Historical Context
The threshing floor purchase (c. 975 BCE) followed the plague that killed 70,000 Israelites (21:14). David's willingness to pay full price despite divine permission to stop the plague showed his commitment to proper atonement and worship, establishing the future temple location.
Reflection
- What 'free' shortcuts in worship or service are you tempted to take rather than offering God costly devotion?
- How does David's principle challenge your giving - of time, resources, and energy - to God's work?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord