1 Chronicles 28:11 – “Then David gave his son Solomon the plans for the portico of the temple, its buildings, its storerooms, its upper parts, its inner rooms, and the place of atonement.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, David is handing over detailed plans for the construction of the temple to his son Solomon. David had prepared these plans, even though he was not allowed by God to build the temple himself. The plans included the layout of the entire temple structure, including specific areas such as the portico (the entrance), storerooms, upper rooms, inner rooms, and, most importantly, the place of atonement. The place of atonement is where sacrifices were made to cover the sins of the people, a critical element in Israel’s relationship with God. David’s passing on of the plans symbolizes his deep commitment to ensuring that the temple, where God’s presence would dwell, is built according to God’s instructions.

Historical Context

David had long desired to build a temple for God to house the Ark of the Covenant, which represented God’s presence among His people. However, because David had been a warrior and shed much blood, God told him that his son Solomon would be the one to build the temple (1 Chronicles 22:8-9). Leading up to this moment, David had gathered materials and made extensive preparations for the temple, even though he would not see it completed. This transfer of the temple plans to Solomon marks a significant moment in Israel’s history, as the temple would become the central place of worship and sacrifice for the nation. It was where the people would encounter God through the priestly system of offerings and atonement.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights the importance of obedience and careful planning in fulfilling God’s purposes. David’s detailed preparation reflects the seriousness with which he approached the building of the temple. He understood that the temple was not just any building—it was the house of God, where His presence would dwell and where the atonement for sin would take place. Theologically, the temple served as a symbol of God’s holiness and the need for atonement to restore the relationship between God and His people. David’s actions also emphasize that while some may prepare the way, others, like Solomon, may be the ones to fulfill God’s plan. It reminds us that God’s purposes often span generations and that obedience is required for those who prepare the way and those who carry out the work.

Literary Analysis

This verse is structured to emphasize the specific nature of the plans David gave to Solomon. By listing various sections of the temple, the writer highlights the detailed nature of the construction. The mention of the “place of atonement” at the end of the verse underscores its importance. This placement draws attention to the heart of the temple’s purpose: the restoration of the relationship between God and His people through sacrifice. The verse is also framed as a moment of transition, where David passes on both a physical task (the building of the temple) and a spiritual responsibility to Solomon.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Chronicles 22:6-10: David explains to Solomon that God chose him to build the temple and provided instructions for its construction.
• Exodus 25:8-9: God gave Moses specific instructions for building the tabernacle, similar to the detailed plans David gave Solomon for the temple.
• Hebrews 9:1-5: This New Testament passage reflects on the Old Testament tabernacle and its design, including the place of atonement, which connects to the significance of the temple’s purpose.
• 1 Kings 6:1-2: The account of Solomon beginning the actual construction of the temple, fulfilling the plans given by David.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that God often calls us to prepare or contribute to a greater work that may not be completed in our lifetime. Like David, we may be called to make preparations for future generations to carry out. The detailed nature of David’s plans also shows the importance of careful obedience to God’s instructions, particularly when it comes to matters of worship and our relationship with Him. Additionally, the place of atonement mentioned in the verse points to the centrality of forgiveness and reconciliation with God, themes that are at the heart of the Christian faith.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is evident in His detailed involvement in the building of the temple. The temple was not merely a physical structure but a place where God would meet His people and provide a way for their sins to be forgiven. By giving detailed plans for its construction, God ensured that the temple would serve as a place where people could experience His presence and receive atonement for their sins. This shows God’s desire to be in a relationship with His people and His provision for that relationship through the sacrificial system, which points to His ongoing care and desire for reconciliation with humanity.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The “place of atonement” in the temple points directly to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the temple’s purpose. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were made in the temple to atone for the sins of the people. These sacrifices were a foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, where He became the ultimate atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:11-14). Just as the temple was where people went to be reconciled to God, Jesus is now the way through whom all people can come to God (John 14:6). The temple, with its emphasis on sacrifice and atonement, finds its full meaning in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does David’s careful preparation for the temple challenge us to be diligent in the tasks God has given us?
2. What can we learn from David’s willingness to prepare for something that he would not personally complete?
3. How does the “place of atonement” in the temple point us to the ultimate atonement found in Jesus Christ?
4. In what ways are you preparing or contributing to a greater work that may extend beyond your lifetime?
5. How does this verse help us understand God’s detailed involvement in our lives and His desire to be with His people?