1 Chronicles 29:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Chronicles 29:11
11 Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.
Chapter Context
1 Chronicles 29 is a historical and genealogical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, faith, fellowship. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 29:11
11 Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.
Analysis
David's doxology 'Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine' is one of Scripture's most comprehensive ascriptions of divine sovereignty. The six attributes (greatness, power, glory, victory, majesty, plus kingdom in following clause) enumerate God's supreme excellence. The basis is universal ownership - 'all... is thine.' This theocentric worldview acknowledges God as source and rightful recipient of all glory. It prepares hearts for worship by relativizing human achievement. This doxology informs the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13) and anticipates heavenly worship (Revelation 5:12-13).
Historical Context
Offered during the assembly dedicating resources for temple construction (c. 971 BCE), this prayer models proper response to sacrificial giving - acknowledging that all gifts come from and return to God. David's humble recognition contrasts with pagan kings who boasted of their achievements.
Reflection
- How does acknowledging God's ownership of 'all that is in heaven and earth' affect your attitude toward possessions?
- In what ways should this doxology shape your worship, whether in corporate singing or private devotion?
Word Studies
- Heaven: שָׁמַיִם (Shamayim) H8064 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Daniel 4:3, 1 Timothy 1:17, Revelation 11:15
- References Lord: Isaiah 12:4
- Glory: Hebrews 1:3, Jude 1:25, Revelation 19:1
- Parallel theme: Genesis 1:1, Psalms 46:10, Jeremiah 27:5