The Writings of 1 Chronicles

What makes a good storyteller? And why is a good storyteller so important to people?  For the nation of Israel it has been generations since they were able to freely worship God.  They are returning from captivity and more importantly, they are returning to a time when Israel had a place of worship and freedom to worship. 

How can the Jews be inspired to rebuild their nation in honor of God? Where can they draw their inspiration? What lessons can they learn from their past so that they don’t make the same mistakes all over again?  A chronicler is a storyteller.  This book of Chronicles is the first of two books that tell the story of Israel’s history, for the purpose of teaching Israel how to rebuild their lives and nation.

For this storyteller, Israel’s history does not begin with Abraham.  Israel’s history begins at creation.  From the very beginning the nation of Israel was part of God’s plan to bring salvation to the world.   There are many important people in Israel’s history.  The chronicler chooses to focus on David, the king who followed Saul.

David’s reign as king is very important for Israel to learn how to live as a nation that follows after God. This storyteller writes about David revealing not just how he led the nation of Israel but how he had a heart for God.  The storyteller includes David’s poetry and worship to God.

In learning from role models the storyteller knows the Jews need to learn about David’s character.  God wants to bring glory to Himself through the Jewish nation.  David is the best role model to teach them how to do that as they rebuild their nation. 

One book would not be enough. After this story, the chronicler would add another story, starting with David’s son Solomon. Storytelling is important to God throughout the Bible.  So many lessons can be learned.  But most of all, these stories give an insight into the coming Messiah, Jesus, who will fulfill God’s plan that started at creation, continued with King David and will be fulfilled with Christ.