Quiz 80 – 1 Chronicals –

This week we look at 1 Chronicles. This book together with 2 Chronicles were originally one book. They offer a unique interpretation of Israel’s history, unlike the systematic account in Samuel and Kings. The Chronicler writes after the exile, aiming to explain God’s enduring promises to His people. Chronicles draw from Samuel and Kings, highlighting the covenant between God and Israel. While Kings saw exile as an end, Chronicles focus on new beginnings for the returning exiles. The genealogies (1–9) link Israel’s past, from Adam to post-exile, with its present, emphasizing the continuity of God’s promises. Chronicles emphasize David’s achievements, notably the Ark of the Covenant and God’s covenant with him. However, it downplays David’s sin with Bathsheba, focusing instead on his census, which resulted in a plague. The book ends with David’s preparations for the Temple’s construction, underscoring God’s role in Israel’s early history and the importance of covenant faithfulness.

Test your knowledge and explore the deeper meanings behind these ancient texts. Discover how these stories resonate today through our “Deeper Dive into the Passage” section. Join us on this enlightening journey through the Bible!

1 / 4

1. What did David do that displeased God, leading to a plague on Israel?

Built a golden calf

Counted the fighting men of Israel

Married a foreign princess

Built an altar to Baal

1 Chronicles 21:1-15

1Satan stood up against Israel, and incited David to count the people of Israel. 2So David said to Joab and the commanders of the army, “Go, number Israel, from Beer-sheba to Dan, and bring me a report, so that I may know their number.” 3But Joab said, “May the Lord increase the number of his people a hundredfold! Are they not, my lord the king, all of them my lord’s servants? Why then should my lord require this? Why should he bring guilt on Israel?” 4But the king’s word prevailed against Joab. So Joab departed and went throughout all Israel, and came back to Jerusalem. 5Joab gave the total count of the people to David. In all Israel there were one million one hundred thousand men who drew the sword, and in Judah four hundred seventy thousand who drew the sword. 6But he did not include Levi and Benjamin in the numbering, for the king’s command was abhorrent to Joab.

7But God was displeased with this thing, and he struck Israel. 8David said to God, “I have sinned greatly in that I have done this thing. But now, I pray you, take away the guilt of your servant; for I have done very foolishly.” 9The Lord spoke to Gad, David’s seer, saying, 10“Go and say to David, ‘Thus says the Lord: Three things I offer you; choose one of them, so that I may do it to you.’ ” 11So Gad came to David and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Take your choice: 12either three years of famine; or three months of devastation by your foes, while the sword of your enemies overtakes you; or three days of the sword of the Lord, pestilence on the land, and the angel of the Lord destroying throughout all the territory of Israel.’ Now decide what answer I shall return to the one who sent me.” 13Then David said to Gad, “I am in great distress; let me fall into the hand of the Lord, for his mercy is very great; but let me not fall into human hands.”

14So the Lord sent a pestilence on Israel; and seventy thousand persons fell in Israel. 15And God sent an angel to Jerusalem to destroy it; but when he was about to destroy it, the Lord took note and relented concerning the calamity; he said to the destroying angel, “Enough! Stay your hand.” The angel of the Lord was then standing by the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.

Deeper dive into passage

David’s census of Israel displeased God, leading to a plague. One hypothesis is that the Chronicler used this story to illustrate the consequences of pride and reliance on human strength rather than God’s providence. Another hypothesis is that it served as a warning against disobedience and the importance of repentance. In today’s context, this passage might remind us of the dangers of overconfidence and the need for humility. A modern parallel could be seen in leaders who prioritize military or economic power over ethical governance and community welfare.

1 Chronicles 21:1-15

Deeper dive into passage

2 / 4

2. Who was anointed as king over Israel in Hebron according to 1 Chronicles 11?

Saul

David

Solomon

Rehoboam

1 Chronicles 11:1-15

1Then all Israel gathered together to David at Hebron and said, “See, we are your bone and flesh. 2For some time now, even while Saul was king, it was you who commanded the army of Israel. The Lord your God said to you: It is you who shall be shepherd of my people Israel, you who shall be ruler over my people Israel.” 3So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord. And they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the Lord by Samuel.

4David and all Israel marched to Jerusalem, that is Jebus, where the Jebusites were, the inhabitants of the land. 5The inhabitants of Jebus said to David, “You will not come in here.” Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion, now the city of David. 6David had said, “Whoever attacks the Jebusites first shall be chief and commander.” And Joab son of Zeruiah went up first, so he became chief. 7David resided in the stronghold; therefore it was called the city of David. 8He built the city all around, from the Millo in complete circuit; and Joab repaired the rest of the city. 9And David became greater and greater, for the Lord of hosts was with him.

10Now these are the chiefs of David’s warriors, who gave him strong support in his kingdom, together with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of the Lord concerning Israel. 11This is an account of David’s mighty warriors: Jashobeam, son of Hachmoni, was chief of the Three; he wielded his spear against three hundred whom he killed at one time.

12And next to him among the three warriors was Eleazar son of Dodo, the Ahohite. 13He was with David at Pas-dammim when the Philistines were gathered there for battle. There was a plot of ground full of barley. Now the people had fled from the Philistines, 14but he and David took their stand in the middle of the plot, defended it, and killed the Philistines; and the Lord saved them by a great victory.

15Three of the thirty chiefs went down to the rock to David at the cave of Adullam, while the army of Philistines was encamped in the valley of Rephaim.

Deeper dive into passage:
In this passage, David is anointed king over Israel. One hypothesis is that the Chronicler aimed to highlight David’s divine selection and legitimacy as king, reinforcing the idea that his kingship was ordained by God. This was important for the post-exilic community to understand their identity and continuity with the past. Another hypothesis is that the Chronicler wanted to emphasize unity among the tribes of Israel under David’s leadership, which was crucial for the restoration of the nation. Today, this passage can be seen as a reminder of the importance of unity and divine purpose in leadership. A modern example might be a community rallying behind a leader who embodies shared values and goals

1 Chronicles 11:1-15

15Three of the thirty chiefs went down to the rock to David at the cave of Adullam, while the army of Philistines was encamped in the valley of Rephaim.

3 / 4

3. What did David do in the assembly before his death, as recorded in 1 Chronicles chapter 29?

Declared war on the Philistines

Built the Temple

Anointed Solomon as king

Divided the land among the tribes

1 Chronicles 29:10-25

10Then David blessed the Lord in the presence of all the assembly; David said: “Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our ancestor Israel, forever and ever. 11Yours, O Lord, are the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens and on the earth is yours; yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. 12Riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might; and it is in your hand to make great and to give strength to all. 13And now, our God, we give thanks to you and praise your glorious name.

14“But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to make this freewill offering? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you. 15For we are aliens and transients before you, as were all our ancestors; our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no hope. 16O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all your own. 17I know, my God, that you search the heart, and take pleasure in uprightness; in the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have seen your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to you. 18O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our ancestors, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. 19Grant to my son Solomon that with single mind he may keep your commandments, your decrees, and your statutes, performing all of them, and that he may build the temple for which I have made provision.”

20Then David said to the whole assembly, “Bless the Lord your God.” And all the assembly blessed the Lord, the God of their ancestors, and bowed their heads and prostrated themselves before the Lord and the king. 21On the next day they offered sacrifices and burnt offerings to the Lord, a thousand bulls, a thousand rams, and a thousand lambs, with their libations, and sacrifices in abundance for all Israel; 22and they ate and drank before the Lord on that day with great joy.

Solomon Anointed King

They made David’s son Solomon king a second time; they anointed him as the Lord‘s prince, and Zadok as priest. 23Then Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord, succeeding his father David as king; he prospered, and all Israel obeyed him. 24All the leaders and the mighty warriors, and also all the sons of King David, pledged their allegiance to King Solomon. 25The Lord highly exalted Solomon in the sight of all Israel, and bestowed upon him such royal majesty as had not been on any king before him in Israel.

Deeper dive into passage

David’s anointing of Solomon highlights the transition of power and the importance of divine blessing. One hypothesis is that the Chronicler wanted to legitimize Solomon’s reign and the building of the Temple as divinely sanctioned. Another hypothesis is that it underscores the importance of gratitude and worship, as seen in David’s prayer. Today, this passage can be interpreted as a call to recognise the importance of legacy and preparation for future generations. A modern example might be a leader ensuring a smooth transition of power and setting up successors for success.

**Historical Accuracy:**

The accounts in 1 Chronicles are generally considered to be theological interpretations rather than strict historical records. While they are based on historical events, the Chronicler’s purpose was more about conveying religious truths and lessons for the community rather than providing a precise historical account.

1 Chronicles 29:10-25

Solomon Anointed King

Deeper dive into passage

**Historical Accuracy:**

4 / 4

4. In Mark’s Gospel chapter 10, what did Jesus ask Bartimaeus when he was brought to Him?

Do you believe in me?

What do you want me to do for you?

Why are you crying?

Where are you from?

Mark 10:46-52, NRSV

46 They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” 50 So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “My teacher, let me see again.” 52 Jesus said to him, “Go; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.

Deeper Dive into the Passage

**Hypothesis 1:** The story of Bartimaeus highlights the theme of faith and persistence. Bartimaeus, despite being rebuked by the crowd, continues to call out to Jesus, demonstrating his unwavering faith. This persistence is rewarded when Jesus acknowledges him and heals his blindness. The passage suggests that faith, even in the face of adversity, is powerful and transformative.

**Hypothesis 2:** The use of the title “Son of David” by Bartimaeus is significant. It indicates a recognition of Jesus as the Messiah, a descendant of King David, fulfilling Jewish expectations. This title reflects the messianic hope prevalent among Jews at the time. The passage conveys that Jesus is the awaited saviour, and Bartimaeus’s recognition of this is a testament to his spiritual insight despite his physical blindness.

**Hypothesis 3:** The interaction between Jesus and Bartimaeus can be seen as a lesson in humility and service. Jesus asks Bartimaeus what he wants, showing respect and giving him agency. This reflects the Christian teaching that God listens to our needs and responds with compassion. In today’s context, it reminds us to approach others with the same respect and willingness to serve.

**Modern Interpretation:** Today, this passage can be seen as a call to recognise the needs of those who are marginalised or overlooked, much like Bartimaeus. A modern example might be advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, ensuring they are heard and respected in society.

**Historical Accuracy:** The account of Bartimaeus is likely based on a real event, as it is consistent with the style of Mark’s Gospel, which often includes vivid, detailed narratives. While some details may have been shaped by oral tradition, the core message of faith and healing is historically plausible.

Mark 10:46-52, NRSV

Deeper Dive into the Passage

Your score is

The average score is 57%

Because family matters most

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply