1 Chronicles 28:10 – “Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house as the sanctuary. Be strong and do the work.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, David is speaking directly to his son Solomon, encouraging him to take seriously the task that God has assigned him. Solomon is chosen to build the temple, the house where God’s presence will dwell among His people. David tells Solomon to “be strong and do the work,” emphasizing that this is not just an honor, but a responsibility. The word “consider” suggests reflection—Solomon is to think deeply about the weight of the task and the fact that it is God who has chosen him for it. The call to “be strong” implies that the work ahead will require effort, perseverance, and courage. Building the temple is a monumental task, both physically and spiritually, and Solomon must rely on God’s strength to complete it.
Historical Context
This verse comes at a critical point in Israel’s history, as David prepares to pass the kingship to Solomon and entrusts him with the task of building the temple. David had wanted to build the temple himself, but God told him that his son Solomon would be the one to carry out this work (1 Chronicles 28:6). The temple was to be a permanent place for the Ark of the Covenant, where God’s presence would dwell among His people. Up until this point, Israel had worshiped in the tabernacle, a temporary structure. The temple would be a central and sacred place of worship for generations to come, and Solomon’s role in constructing it was vital for the future of Israel’s spiritual life.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the theme of divine calling and responsibility. God chooses specific people for specific tasks in His kingdom, and with that calling comes the responsibility to faithfully carry out His work. Solomon’s task of building the temple reflects the larger biblical principle that God calls His people to participate in His plans, but they must rely on His strength to fulfill them. The call to “be strong and do the work” also speaks to the need for perseverance and reliance on God’s power, especially when facing challenging tasks. It reminds us that while God may call us to do great things, we must approach those tasks with humility and dependence on His guidance.
Literary Analysis
The structure of the verse emphasizes both the divine calling and the human responsibility. The phrase “the Lord has chosen you” highlights that this is not Solomon’s idea or ambition—it is God’s plan. The instruction to “be strong and do the work” shifts the focus to Solomon’s role in fulfilling God’s will. The pairing of “consider” and “do” encourages both reflection and action: Solomon is to think deeply about his responsibility and then take action with strength and determination. The verse balances God’s initiative with Solomon’s responsibility, showing that divine calling requires human obedience and effort.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Chronicles 22:13: David gives Solomon similar advice, urging him to be strong and courageous as he undertakes the task of building the temple.
- Joshua 1:6-7: God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous as he leads Israel into the Promised Land, showing a consistent theme of strength in leadership and fulfilling God’s commands.
- Isaiah 41:10: God reassures His people not to fear, for He will strengthen and help them, echoing the idea that strength for God’s work comes from Him.
- Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength,” a New Testament reminder that our ability to accomplish God’s work comes from His empowerment.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that God calls each of us to specific tasks in His kingdom, whether they seem large or small. Just as Solomon was called to build the temple, we are called to serve God in the ways He has planned for us. This verse encourages believers to reflect on their calling and to take it seriously. It also reminds us that we cannot accomplish God’s work in our own strength—we must rely on His power. Whether we are called to lead, serve, or build in some other way, we are to approach our work with courage and determination, trusting that God will equip us for the tasks He has given us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in how He chooses and equips people for His purposes. God’s calling of Solomon to build the temple shows His desire to dwell among His people, and His guidance ensures that Solomon is not left to accomplish this task on his own. The instruction to “be strong and do the work” is a sign of God’s encouragement and support, showing that He not only calls people but also strengthens them for the work He has assigned. God’s love is evident in how He involves His people in His plans and provides them with the strength to fulfill their calling.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points to Jesus Christ, who, like Solomon, was chosen for a specific and vital task in God’s redemptive plan. Jesus came to build a different kind of temple—not a physical structure, but a spiritual one where God would dwell with His people. Jesus is the cornerstone of this spiritual temple (Ephesians 2:19-22), and through His life, death, and resurrection, He established the Church, which is the dwelling place of God’s Spirit. Just as Solomon was called to build the temple for God’s presence, Jesus came to make it possible for God to live among His people forever. Through Christ, we are also called to be part of this spiritual house, serving as living stones in the temple He is building (1 Peter 2:5).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What specific tasks or callings has God placed in your life, and how can you approach them with strength and determination?
- How does the fact that God has chosen you for a purpose encourage you to take your role in His kingdom seriously?
- In what areas of your life do you need to rely more on God’s strength to accomplish the work He has given you?
- How does this verse challenge you to reflect on your responsibilities in serving God and others?
- How does understanding Jesus as the builder of a spiritual temple impact the way you view your role in God’s plan?