Book of 1 Chronicles - Chapter 21 - Verse 18
Then the angel of the LORD commanded Gad to say to David, that David should go up, and set up an altar unto the LORD in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.
Meaning
According to this verse, the angel of the LORD instructed Gad to tell David to go up and build an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. This command holds significant symbolism in the Bible as altars were often built as places of worship, prayer, and sacrifice to honor and seek guidance from God. The act of setting up an altar signifies David's desire to seek forgiveness, favor, and blessings from the LORD. The selection of Ornan's threshing floor as the location for the altar holds additional significance as it was a place associated with agriculture and production. By choosing this site, David is acknowledging the importance of dedicating even everyday spaces and activities to God's service. This verse teaches us the importance of setting aside time and resources to honor and worship God in all aspects of our lives, whether in times of prosperity or challenge.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see an instance where the angel of the LORD commands Gad to instruct David to build an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. This particular directive carries theological significance as it highlights the importance of honoring God through sacrifices and worship. The act of building an altar was a common practice in the Old Testament, symbolizing a place of meeting between humans and God. The location of the altar on Ornan's threshing floor further emphasizes the idea of dedicating one's everyday life and work to the service of God. This verse also showcases the role of intermediaries like Gad in conveying God's message to His chosen servants, reinforcing the idea of obedience to divine commands. Furthermore, the mention of Ornan the Jebusite suggests the inclusivity of God's salvation, reaching out to people beyond the Israelites. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of offering worship and sacrifices to God, as well as the need for obedience to His instructions through His appointed messengers.
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