Commentary on 1 Chronicles 2—8 (Summary)

A recurring theme throughout the book of Chronicles is the message of hope among the postexilic community of the restoration and continuation of Israelite kingship. This conviction of the Chronicler was not simply wishful thinking or sentimental daydreaming but was based upon the sure word of prophecy that clearly stated that a Davidic throne would again be restored. The prophet Amos clearly states, In that day I will raise up the booth of David that is fallen and repair its breaches and raise up its ruins and rebuild it as in the days of old (Amos 6:11; see also Jeremiah 33:14–16). The very fact that God will make good on his promises is reflected in the arrangement of the writer’s material. The compilation of the tribal genealogies (1 Chronicles 4:1–7:40) is enclosed or bookended on either side by Judah (1 Chronicles 2:1–3:24) and Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:1–40), both of which were royal tribes of Israel. The concept of kingship flavours the Chronicler’s retelling of Hebrew history. He knows beyond any shadow of doubt that Israel’s destiny is closely entwined with a royal Davidic figure who was yet to come. Perhaps his expectation was that it would happen in his own time. His musings may indeed penetrate subsequent centuries of Jewish history with that one question that persevered even to the time of Jesus Christ’s ascension to heaven: Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel? (Acts 1:6).¹ The forward movement onward to the promised (ideal/perfect) King who would reign in righteousness and justice over his people is the constant focus of the Chronicler. It is the immeasurable blessing of the New Testament church to be the recipients of the fulfilment of that unquenchable longing for the appearance of the promised King.