Understanding 1 Chronicles 21:21

Verse Context: 1 Chronicles 21:21 describes an event during King David's reign when he encountered an angel of destruction while approaching the threshing floor of Ornan (Araunah). This moment is a critical point in David's story, reflecting themes of sin, repentance, and divine mercy.

Verse Text: "And David came to Ornan: and Ornan looked and saw David, and went out of the threshingfloor, and bowed himself to David with his face to the ground."

Combined Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

1. Matthew Henry’s Commentary:

• Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of the threshing floor as a place of divine encounter. It symbolizes a transition from judgment to mercy. David's approach to Ornan shows humility amidst the stark realization of his wrongdoing.

2. Albert Barnes’ Notes:

• Barnes highlights that the act of David coming to Ornan was not just physically significant but also spiritually profound. It demonstrates David's willingness to confront the consequences of his actions and seek atonement through sacrifice.

3. Adam Clarke’s Commentary:

• Clarke notes the historical and theological implications of this event, suggesting that David’s visit to the threshing floor was instrumental in establishing Jerusalem as the center of worship. This act tied the past sins to the future grace offered in the temple's location.

Thematic Connections

This verse provides numerous opportunities for linking Bible scriptures, evidenced by the following themes and related verses:

• Divine Judgment and Mercy:
  • 2 Samuel 24:16 - God's mercy during a time of judgment.
  • Romans 5:20 - Where sin abounds, grace does much more abound.
• Humility and Submission:
  • James 4:10 - Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.
  • Philippians 2:3 - In humility count others more significant than yourselves.
• True Worship:
  • John 4:24 - God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.
  • Isaiah 66:2 - The one whom God will look is the humble and contrite spirit.

Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts

This exploration of 1 Chronicles 21:21 allows for an extensive Bible verse cross-referencing to understand and analyze the broader themes within the Scriptures:

• 1 Chronicles 22:1 - David's preparation for the temple as a response to his repentance.
• 2 Samuel 24:24-25 - The establishment of the altar and its significance to future worship.
• Hebrews 11:4 - Faith of Abel’s offering is compared to David’s sacrifice.

Conclusion

The significance of 1 Chronicles 21:21 transcends the narrative of David's life, highlighting themes that resonate throughout Scripture. By examining these connections, we establish an inter-Biblical dialogue that enhances our understanding of God’s character and His redemptive plans for humanity. Engaging with this verse through cross-referencing Bible studies fosters a deeper appreciation of Scripture's unified message.