1 Chronicles 18: Group Study Handout

Overview

David defeated the Philistines and took Gath and its towns (vv. 1-2). He also defeated Moab, making them servants who brought tribute. David then conquered Hadadezer, king of Zobah. He seized one thousand chariots, seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen. David hamstrung the chariot horses but kept enough for one hundred chariots (vv. 3-4). When the Syrians came to help Hadadezer, David struck down twenty-two thousand men of Syria and established garrisons there (vv. 5-6).

Key verse

“David reigned over all Israel; and he executed justice and righteousness for all his people.”

1 Chronicles 18:14 (WEB)

Outline

1. 1 Chronicles 18:1–2 David's Victory Over the Philistines
2. 1 Chronicles 18:3–4 Conquest of Moab and Zobah
3. 1 Chronicles 18:5–6 Defeating the Syrians
4. 1 Chronicles 18:7–10 Tribute and Gifts from Conquered Kings
5. 1 Chronicles 18:11–13 Dedication of Spoils to Yahweh
6. 1 Chronicles 18:14–17 Administration of Justice and Governance

Discussion questions

1. In v2, what action does David take towards the Moabites?
2. What tribute do the Moabites bring to David in v2?
3. In v10, what does Tou's sending of Hadoram suggest about his relationship with Hadadezer?
4. In v14, how does the phrase 'executed justice and righteousness' inform our understanding of David's reign?
5. When has a victory in your life led to unexpected responsibilities, as in v6?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Chronicles 18: 2 Samuel 8, Psalm 60, 2 Samuel 20.

Before next time: read 1 Chronicles 19.