1 Chronicles 21:22 – “David said to him, ‘Let me have the site of your threshing floor so I can build an altar to the Lord, that the plague on the people may be stopped. Sell it to me at the full price.'”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, David approaches Araunah (also known as Ornan) to ask for the purchase of his threshing floor. David is acting under God’s instruction to build an altar in order to stop the deadly plague that has been ravaging Israel as a result of his sin of conducting a census. David doesn’t ask for a gift or a favor but insists on buying the site at full price, showing his commitment to offer something of personal cost in his repentance and sacrifice.

David’s request shows a clear understanding of the need for proper restitution and atonement before God. He recognizes that the plague can only be stopped through an act of worship, obedience, and sacrifice, and he desires to ensure that his offering is made with integrity. This act of purchasing the threshing floor and building an altar signifies David’s repentance and his intention to do what is right before God.

Historical Context

This verse occurs during a time of great distress in Israel. After David ordered a census of Israel’s fighting men—something that revealed his misplaced trust in human strength rather than in God—a plague was sent upon the nation as a consequence of his sin. The prophet Gad, speaking for God, instructed David to build an altar on the threshing floor of Araunah as a means of stopping the plague.

Threshing floors were significant in the ancient world as places where grain was separated from the chaff. Spiritually, they also symbolized separation, judgment, and sometimes, God’s provision. This particular threshing floor, located in what would become Jerusalem, would later be the site of Solomon’s temple, further increasing its importance in Israel’s history.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important theological truths. First, it emphasizes the cost of true repentance. David’s insistence on paying “full price” for the land shows that true worship and atonement involve sacrifice. He recognizes that to offer something to God that costs him nothing would be inadequate. This reflects the broader biblical principle that worship and sacrifice should come from a heart willing to give fully, not out of convenience.

Second, the verse highlights the relationship between sin, judgment, and atonement. The plague ravaging Israel was a direct consequence of David’s sin, and only by following God’s instructions—building the altar and offering sacrifices—could the nation be delivered. This shows that sin has real consequences, but God provides a path to reconciliation through obedience and sacrifice.

Literary Analysis

Literarily, this verse marks a pivotal moment in the narrative. David has already acknowledged his sin and received instructions from God to build the altar. His approach to Araunah and his willingness to pay the full price shows his commitment to follow through with genuine repentance. The dialogue is direct and purposeful, with David’s words emphasizing the urgency and seriousness of the situation—this is about saving lives and restoring the relationship between God and His people.

The mention of the “full price” adds weight to David’s decision, reflecting his understanding that worship must involve sacrifice. This underscores the sincerity of his repentance and desire to make things right before God.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• 2 Samuel 24:24: “But the king replied to Araunah, ‘No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.'” This parallel verse emphasizes David’s understanding that true worship and repentance require personal sacrifice.
• Psalm 51:17: “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” David’s willingness to buy the threshing floor reflects the spirit of humility and repentance described in this psalm.
• Hebrews 13:16: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” This verse reminds us that God values sacrifices made from a heart of obedience and generosity, just as David was willing to sacrifice for the sake of his people and to honor God.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, this verse serves as a reminder that true repentance and worship require sincerity and often come with a cost. David’s insistence on buying the threshing floor at full price challenges us to consider the nature of our own sacrifices to God. Are we offering our best, or are we giving only what is convenient? This verse encourages us to be wholehearted in our devotion, recognizing that true worship requires both humility and commitment.

It also speaks to the importance of obedience. David had sinned, but his willingness to follow God’s specific instructions—building an altar on a particular site—shows that restoration comes through listening to and obeying God’s word. In the same way, our relationship with God is strengthened when we respond to His guidance with faith and action.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse demonstrates God’s love by showing that, even in the midst of judgment, He provides a way for redemption and restoration. The plague that had struck Israel was a consequence of David’s sin, but God, in His mercy, offered a solution through the building of an altar and the offering of sacrifices. God’s love is seen in the fact that He always offers a path to reconciliation, even when judgment is necessary.

David’s willingness to pay for the threshing floor also reflects his understanding of God’s holiness and justice—he knows that God deserves the best, and that true worship should not be cheap or superficial. This reinforces the idea that God’s love is not only merciful but also righteous, calling His people to genuine repentance and devotion.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse connects to Jesus Christ by pointing to the theme of sacrifice and atonement. Just as David sought to build an altar to atone for his sin and stop the plague, Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice who atones for the sins of all humanity. David’s willingness to pay the full price for the threshing floor mirrors the fact that Jesus paid the ultimate price for our sins by giving His life on the cross.

• 1 Peter 1:18-19: “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed… but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” This verse reminds us that the price paid for our redemption was far greater than any material cost, reflecting the full and complete sacrifice of Jesus.
• Romans 5:9: “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!” Jesus’ sacrifice stops the ultimate “plague” of sin and death, just as David’s altar stopped the plague on Israel.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does David’s willingness to pay the full price for the threshing floor challenge your own approach to worship and sacrifice?
2. In what ways can you offer God your best, rather than what is convenient or easy?
3. How does this verse remind you of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement in your relationship with God?
4. How can you practice greater obedience and sensitivity to God’s guidance in your life, just as David followed God’s instructions to build the altar?
5. How does Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, which was made at the “full price” for our sins, deepen your understanding of God’s love and mercy?

1 Chronicles 21:22 reminds us that true worship requires sacrifice and obedience. David’s willingness to pay the full price for the threshing floor reflects a heart of genuine repentance and devotion to God. This verse also points us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who gave His life to redeem us from the plague of sin, offering us restoration and eternal life in Him.