1 Chronicles 28: Group Study Handout

Overview

David assembled all the leaders of Israel in Jerusalem, including the princes and mighty men (vv. 1-2). He expressed his desire to build a house for Yahweh's ark but stated that God told him not to do it because he was a man of war (vv. 3-5). God chose Solomon to succeed David and to build the house for Yahweh (vv. 6-8). David instructed Solomon to serve Yahweh with a perfect heart and a willing mind, stating that Yahweh searches all hearts (vv. 9-10). David provided Solomon with detailed plans for the temple, including its design and the materials needed (vv. 11-19). Finally, David encouraged Solomon to be strong and assured him of God's presence and support in the work ahead (vv. 20-21).

Key verse

“You, Solomon my son, know the God of your father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind; for Yahweh searches all hearts, and understands all the imaginations of the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever.”

1 Chronicles 28:9 (WEB)

Outline

1. 1 Chronicles 28:1–2 David Assembles Israel's Leaders
2. 1 Chronicles 28:3–5 God's Choice of Solomon
3. 1 Chronicles 28:6–8 Instructions to Solomon and Israel
4. 1 Chronicles 28:9–10 Serving God with Heart and Mind
5. 1 Chronicles 28:11–19 Plans for the Temple
6. 1 Chronicles 28:20–21 Encouragement and Support

Discussion questions

1. In v5, who does David say God has chosen to sit on the throne?
2. What does David tell Solomon to do in v10?
3. David’s statement in v3 about being a 'man of war': how does this inform God’s choice regarding the temple?
4. In vv. 8-9, David emphasizes obeying commandments: what role does obedience play in Israel's future?
5. When have you felt chosen for a task like Solomon in v10?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Chronicles 28: Jeremiah 29, Isaiah 55, 1 Kings 8.

Before next time: read 1 Chronicles 29.