Preparation: A Study in 1 ChroniclesSýnishorn

What does it say?

In response to King David’s desire to build a permanent structure to house the Ark, God promised David a dynasty of kings and renewed His everlasting covenant of love.

What does it mean?

David desired to build a suitable house for God’s divine presence, but that was not God’s will. It was God’s will for one of David’s sons to build a permanent structure for the Ark. God had given Israel a home and promised to establish them in the land. Instead of allowing David to build a physical structure for the Lord, God promised to build a dynasty for David. From his offspring, God would bring the promised Deliverer who would be enthroned forever. God said “No” to David’s noble idea but gave assurance of His everlasting love.

How should I respond?

This pivotal Scripture is a reminder of God's great redemptive purposes. While David was denied the honor of building a permanent house for the ark of the covenant, he was granted a greater blessing. David's throne would extend forever, a covenantal promise that would culminate in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. All the kings that would descend from David would be faint shadows compared to the blazing reality of Jesus Christ. Right now, reigning and ruling over all things, is the greatest Son of David, the shoot from the stump of Jesse (Isaiah 11:1), whose government and peace there will be no end (Isaiah 9:7). When he returns, he will banish sin, death, and hell as he reigns with justice and righteousness forevermore. If you are struggling with sin, mourning the brokenness of the world, or even facing death - take heart - the King has come, triumphed over the grave, and is one day coming again.