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11 Then Davidgave

to Solomon his son,

the pattern of the

porch, and of the houses thereof; and of the treasuries thereof, and of the upper chambers thereof, and of the inner parlors thereof, and of

* the place of the mercyseat,

12 And the pattern of all that he had by the Spirit, of the courts of the house of the LORD, and of all the chambers

round about, of the treasuries of the house of God, and of the treasuries of the dedicated things:

13 Also for the

courses of the priests and the Levites, and for all the work of the ser vice of the house of the LORD, and for all the vessels of service in the house of the LORD.

14 He gave of gold by weight for things of gold, for all instruments of all manner of service; silver also for all instruments of silver by weight for all instruments of every kind of

service:

15 Even the weight for the candlesticks of gold, and for their lamps

of gold, by weight for every candlestick, and for the lamps thereof; and for the candlesticks of silver by weight, both for the candlestick, and also for the lamps thereof, according to the use of every candlestick.

16 And by weight he gave gold for the tables of shew-bread, for every table; and likewise silver for the tables of silver:

17 Also pure gold

hands through all the ages of time, Isa. 9: 7. | God never casts any off, till they have first cast
Luke 1: 33. and shall then be delivered up to God, Him off. Here is one argument peculiar to Solo-
even the Father, yet, perhaps, to be delivered back mon; v. 10, Thou art to build a house for the sanc-
to the Redeemer for ever. As to Solomon, this
promise of the establishment of his kingdom is
here made conditional. He was now very toward-
lyand good; If he continue so, his kingdom shall
continue, otherwise not. Note, If we be constant
to our duty, then, and not otherwise, we may ex-
pect the continuance of God's favor. Let those
that are well taught, and begin well, notice this
-if they be constant, they are happy; persever-
ance wears the crown, though it wins it not.

tuary; therefore seek and serve God, that that work may be done from a good principle, in a right manner, and may be accepted.' 3. The means prescribed in order hereunto, and they are prescribed to us all. (1.) Caution. Take heed; beware of every thing that looks like, or leads to, that which is evil. (2.) Courage. Be strong, and do it. We cannot do our work as we should, unless we put on resolution, and fetch in strength from divine grace.

V. 11-21. As for the general charge David gave his son to seek God and serve Him, the book of the law was, in that, his only rule, and there needed no other; but, in building the temple, David was now to give him three things:

VI. He charges them to adhere steadfastly to
God and their duty, v. 8. Observe, 1. The mat-
ter of this charge: Keep, and seek for, all the com-
mandments of the Lord your God. God's com-
mandments will not be kept without great care.
2. The solemnity of it. He charges them in the
sight of all Israel, and in the audience of their be such a building as neither he nor his architects

God; and if they do not heed it, it is their fault,
and God and man will be witnesses against them.
See 1 Tim. 5:21. 2 Tim. 4: 1. Those that

1. A model of the building, because it was to

ever saw. Moses had a pattern of the tabernacle showed him in the mount, Heb. 8: 5. so had David of the temple, by the immediate hand of God

profess religion, as they tender the favor of God, upon him, v. 19. It was given him in writing,
and their reputation with men, must be faithful to
their profession. 3. The motive to observe this
charge; it was the way to be happy, to have the
peaceable possession of this good land themselves,
and to preserve the entail of it on their children.
VII. He concludes with a charge to Solomon
himself, v. 9, 10. He is much concerned that he
should be religious. Observe, 1. He must look
upon God as the God of his father, his good father,
who had devoted him to God, and educated him

for God. He must know God, and serve Him;
we cannot serve God aright, if we do not know
Him; and in vain do we know Him, if we do not
serve Him; serve Him with heart and mind; an
upright heart, for sincerity is our gospel-perfec-
tion; and a willing mind, from love, and with
pleasure. 2. Two arguments enforce this charge,
(1.) The secrets of our souls are open before God;
He searches all hearts, even the hearts of kings,
which to men are unsearchable, Prov. 25: 3.
(2.) We are happy or miserable here, and for
ever, according as we do, or do not, serve God:
we seek Him diligently, He will be found of us,
and that is enough to make us happy, Heb. 11: 6.
If we forsake Him, He will cast us off for ever,
and that is enough to make us miserable. Note,

If

for the flesh-hooks, and
the bowls, and the cups:
and for the golden basins
he gave gold by weight
for every basin; and
likewise silver by weight
for every basin of silver;

18 And for the altar
of incense refined gold
by weight; and gold for
the pattern of the cha-
riot of the cherubims,
that spread out their

Verses 11-13.

In what way soever this writing was made and sent to David, he gave it to Solomon just before his death: so that nothing was left even to 'the wisdom of Solomon,' but all was done by rule, even to the quantity of metal used in each vessel. (14-18.)-In vain do men of opposite sentiments contend for such uniformity in the circumstances of our worship, under the N. T. seeing it is manifest, that exact, precise, and express rules are nowhere to be found, in respect of every particular. It is, however, most evident, that to model divine ordinances according to man's imagination, would have been the height of presumption even in Solomon himself.

Verses 14-16.

Scott.

(M. R.-1 K. 7:48-51.) The candlesticks of silver, and tables of silver, are not elsewhere mentioned, and it is not known to what use they were put. The former'... (the candlesticks of silver) 'were less, to be carried in their hands from place to place, as there was occasion.' Patrick. It seems there were in the temple several tables of gold for the shew-bread, and the vessels belonging to that part of the stated service. (2) Chr. 4:19.)

Verse 17.

ID.

The word, rendered basins, seems to be derived from the atonement made by the blood of the sacrifices, which was received into them till it was sprinkled. (Num. 7:13, 14.) SCOTT. A cut is given [428]

probably, by the ministry of an angel, or as clearly and exactly represented to his mind, as if it had been in writing. But it is said, r. 12. He had the pattern by the Spirit. The contrivance either of David's devotion, or of Solomon's wisdom, must not be trusted to in an affair of this nature. The temple must be a sacred thing, and a type of Christ; there must be in it, not only convenience, but significancy: it was a kind of sacrament, there fore its contrivance must not be left to man's art

or invention; but must be by divine institution.
This pattern David gave to Solomon, that he
might know what to provide, and might go by a
certain rule. When Christ left with his disciples
a charge to build his gospel-church, he gave them
an exact model of it, ordering them to observe
that, and that only, which he commanded. The
particular models are here mentioned; Patrick
supposes that, among other things, the tabernacle
Moses reared, and all its utensils were laid up
here; signifying, that, in the fulness of time, all the
Mosaic economy, all the rites and ceremonies of
that dispensation, should be respectfully laid aside,
and something better come in their room.
gave him a table of the courses of the priests, pat-
terns of the vessels of service, v. 13. and a pattern

wings, and covered the
ark of the covenant of
the LORD.

19 All this, said Da-
vid, the LORD made
me understand in writ-
ing by his hand upon
me, even all the works
of this pattern.

q 19. Ex. 25:40. 26:30. 39:42,43. 2
Chr. 3:3. Ez. 43:10,11. Heh. 8:5.
r1 K. 6:3. 2 Chr. 3:4. Ez. 40:8,9,15,
48,49.

81 Κ. 6:16-20. 2 Chr. 3:5-10. Ez.
41:13,&c. Heb. 9:2-8.

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He

1 9:26-29. 25.20-27. Luke 21 L
и 1 К. 6:5,6,10. 2 Cbr. 3.9. Nel
38,39. 13.5. Jer. 352. Ez.416.
x Ex. 25:17-22. 40:20,21. 1 5.6.19
2 Chr. 5:7. Heb. 9.5.

• Heb. that was with him by.

y 26:26-28. 1 К. 14:26. 15.15.18 2

Κ. 16:8, 18:15.

z 24:1,&c. 25:1,50.
a 9:29. Ezra 8:15-30.73.
b Ex. 25:31-59. 1 К. 7:49. 10.47

Zech. 4:2,3,11-14. Вет. 1.12, с Ex. 25:23-30. 1. K. 7:48. 2 8,19.

d 1 Sam. 2:13,14. 2 Chr. 4:30-21 • Num. 7:13,14. 1 К. 7:45-50

f Ex. 30:1-10. 1 Κ. 7.48

g Ex. 25:18-22. 1 Sam. 4:4. 1.4

23-30. P. 18:10.68-17.801.1

Ez. 1:15-24. 10-2,4c.

b 11,12. Ex. 25:40, 26:30.

1 Ez. 1:3, 3:14,22,

of flesh-hooks from the ancient Egyptian monuments. These monuments, repeatedly refer red to, have been preserve (even to the colors) in the milk, dry climate of Egypt; and being such undoubted relics of antiquity, their value in tration and confirmation ( Seripture is becoming mor

and more manifest. Notes, 2 Chr. 12: 8, &c.

Verse 18.

En

The phrase chariot means doubtless nothing more than the stand (which was at first the lid of the ark) on which the cherubims were affixed, similarly to the segment on which the figure sits, cut, Ex 25 18. which segment, perhaps, had a name in Coptic corresponding the Heb. here. We have a like word, probably, in the technical te mounting, cradle, chair, or carriage. ED. It is not absolutely certain, that, amidst the many removals of the ark which had taken pisce the cherubim had not been separated from it; and whether Solemas did any thing more than make two others in their stead.

SCOTT.

Verse 19. (11-13.) This comprises all the particulars, mentioned in the pre

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21 And, behold, the courses of the priests

and the Levites, even they shall be with thee for all the service of the house of God: and there shall be with thee, for all manner of work manship, every willing

skilful man, for any manner of service: also the princes and all the people will be wholly at

thy commandment.

CHAP. XXIX.

David shows the princes and people
what treasures he had prepared for
the building and service of the temple,
1-5.
After his example, and at his
exhortation, they offer liberally, 6-9.
He adores and blesses God, and prays
for the people and for Solomon, 10-
19. The people worship, sacrifice,
and feast with joy; and then make
Solomon king the second time, 20-22.
He reigus in majesty and prosperity,
22-25. David's long and prosperous
reign, and happy death, 26-30.

FURTHERMORE,

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David the king said *unto all the congregation, Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen, is yet young and tender, and the work is great: for the palace is not for man, but for the LORD God.

and Levites will advise thee, and thou mayest consult with them. And lastly, 'The princes and the people, so far from opposing, or retarding the work, will be wholly at thy command, every one in his place ready to further it.' Then good work is likely to go on, when all parties concerned, are hearty in it, and none secretly clog it.

of the chariot of the cherubim, v. 18. Besides | never leaves any, unless they first leave Him.
the two cherubim over the mercy-seat, there were 'Good men will help thee, v. 21. The priests
two much larger, whose wings reached from wall
to wall, 1 K. 6: 23, &c. and of these David here
gave Solomon the pattern, called a chariot; for
the angels are the chariots of God, Ps. 68: 17.
2. Materials for the most costly of the utensils
of the temple. That they might not be made any
less than the patterns, he weighed out the exact
quantity for each vessel, both of gold and silver,
v. 14. In the tabernacle there was but one gold-
en candlestick, in the temple ten, 1 K. 7:49.
beside silver ones, which, it is supposed, were
hand candlesticks, v. 15. In the tabernacle there
was but one table; but in the temple, beside that
on which the shew-bread was set, there were ten
others, for other uses, 2 Chr. 4: 8. beside silver
tables. This house being much larger than that,

would look bare if it had not furniture proportion-
able. The gold for the altar of incense, is partic-
ularly said to be refined gold, v. 18. purer than any
of the rest; for that was typical of the interces-
sion of Christ, than which nothing is more pure
and perfect.

3. Directions which way to look for help in this
great undertaking, v. 20. Note, We may be sure

CHAP. XXIX. David had said what he had to say to Solomon. But he had something more to say to the congregation before he parts with them. Observe,

V. 1-9. I. How handsomely David accosted the great men of Israel, to engage them to contribute to the temple, 1-4. It is our duty, not only to do good ourselves, but to draw in others to do good too, as much as we can. There were many very rich men in Israel, who were all to share the benefit of the temple, and of those peaceable days which were to befriend the building of it: therefore, though he would not impose on them, as a tax, what they should give toward it, he would recommend the present as a fair occasion for a free-will offering: because works of piety and

charity, should be done willingly, not by constraint; God loves a cheerful giver.

that God, who owned our fathers, and carried
them through the services of their day, will, in
like manner, if we be faithful to Him, go along
He sets them a good example. Beside what
with us in our day, and will never leave us, while was dedicated to this service out of the spoils and
He has any work to do in us, or by us. The same presents of the neighboring nations, of which be-
that was Joshua's encouragement, Josh. 1: 5. and fore, ch. 22: 14. he had, out of his own share,
Solomon's here, is given to all believers, Heb. 13: offered largely, v. 4, 5. not as Papists build church-
5. He will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Godes, in commutation of penance, or to make atone-

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PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.

While life continues, it is desirable to spend it in promoting the peace, prosperity, and spiritual good, of those who may remain behind. (Ec. 9:10. 2 Pet. 1: 12.-15.)-In that monarchy, which God established in Israel, and sanctioned by his approbation, we see no traces of the unalterable right of primogeniture, or of ruling with absolute authority. It may be comfortable to us in a dying hour, to recollect the plans we framed to promote true religion, though we have been unable to accomplish them: hence also we may infer, that we are the chosen and called of God; as such designs prove, that He has given us a heart to account his service a delightful privilege, and to long and love to be employed in it. But, in the nature and measure of our services, we must learn acquiescence in his will, whose choice of us is the source of all our grace, comfort, or usefulness. But we should never forget, that the whole of the salvation for sinners, is of the Lord: the wondrous plan, the great and glorious Redeemer, and redemption, and the revelation of it in the scriptures

coding vs. God made him to understand all this so plainly and distinctly, as if it had been written on his mind, as the ten commandments were on the tables of stone. Patrick.

NOTES.

Scorr.

CHAP. XXIX. V. 1. Whom alone God, &c.] David by this expression declared, that God had chosen Solomon in preference to the rest of his sons; and that this was the sole reason of his succession to the throne, and not any partial affection of his own towards him. This would tend to satisfy the people, and to induce David's other sons to submit to the divine appointment.

Verses 3-9.

ID.

David gave, from his own treasury, about 18,000,000 stg. of gold and silver. The prosperity of Israel must have been immense, under the reign of David; and it seems there was also much true piety among the people, especially towards the close of his reign. We can scarcely

5 The gold for things of gold, and the silver for things of silver, and

k 10. 22:13. Deut. 31:7,8. Josh. 1:
6-9. 1 Cor. 16:13.

1 Ps. 27:1,2. 18. 41:10,13. Rom. 8:31.
m Josh. 1:5. Heb. 13:5.
n 24:25:26:
o Ex. 31:3.

p. Ex. 35:25,26,35. 36:1-4. Ps. 110:3.
q 22:17,18. Tit. 3:1.

a 28:1,8.

b 28:5,6. 1 K. 8:19,20.

с 22:5. 1 K. 3:7. 2 Chr. 13:7. Prov.

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of truth; the way of access, the ministry of the gospel, the throne of grace also, the public ordinances, the sacramental seals, and every thing pertaining to our reconciliation and walk with God, are from Him; and may not be modelled by human authority. Even mere circumstances, which must be regulated by man's discretion, and in which every society has a right to judge for its willing members, are not to be imposed on our brethren: and we are accountable to God, though not to man, for that judgment and practice which we ourselves form and adopt. We should therefore in every thing be circumspect, and not leave the Scripture in any particular, where it affords us directions; yet we should not endanger the peace of the church, for the sake of minute external regulations. Let us cease from self-confident boastings, and acrimonious controversies. Hitherto much has been amiss in every age, in every state, and in every division of the church: ere long our Prince of Peace, the Builder of the true temple, the Son of God, will come, and set all right. Scott.

form a conception of the magnificence of the temple and adjacent edifices, about which such immense quantities of gold and silver were employed. (Ez. 41:22.) But the unsearchable riches of Christ' excel the splendor of the temple, infinitely more than that surpassed the meanest cottage on earth. The refined silver seems to have been used, in covering the inner walls of the chambers and other out-buildings; for those of the temple itself were plated with gold. (1 K. 6:21, 22.) Mine own proper good, Heb. (3) rendered a peculiar treasure, Ex. 19:5. special, Deut. 7:6. jewels, Mal. 3:17. (Tit. 2:14.) Scott. With perfect heart, &c. (9) 'This is the virtue which Paul calls aplotes, singleness of heart; which hath respect purely to the service of God, the honor of religion, and the good of the church: 2 Cor. 8:2. 9:11, 13. (2 Cor. 1:12-14. Eph. 6:5-9.) It was a singular comfort to David in his old age to see the people so well disposed, and his exhortation so effectual on their heart. Patrick.

Ip.

for all manner of work to be made by the hands of artificers. And who then is willing to * con

secrate his service this

day unto the LORD?

6 Then the chief of the fathers and princes

of the tribes of Israel, and the captains of

thousands and of hundreds, with the rulers of the king's work, offered willingly,

7 And gave for the service of the house of God, of gold five thou

sand talents and ten thousand drams, and of silver ten thousand talents, and of brass eighteen thousand talents,

and one hundred thousand talents of iron.

were

8 And they with whom precious stones found gave them to the treasure of the house of the LORD, by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite.

9 Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly; because with 'perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy.

[Practical Observations.]

10 Wherefore 'David blessed the LORD before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel, our Father, for ever and ever. 11 Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and d the victory, and the majesty: for fall that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine;

ment for sin: nor as Pharisees give alms, to be pears by the sum total of the contributions, t. 7,8
seen of men; but purely because he loved the hab- They gave like themselves, like princes, like pria.
itation of God's house; so he professed, Ps. 26: ces of Israel. The people themselves rejoiced that
8. and here he proved it. Those who set their offered; they were glad of the opportunity of bon-
affection on the service of God, will think no pains
or cost too much to bestow on it. Our offerings
are pleasing to God, when they come from love.
They that set their affection on things above, will
set their affection on the house of God, through
which our way to heaven lies. Those who are

advanced above others, in place and dignity, should
lead in what is good, because the influence of their
example is more powerful and extensive than that
of other people.

He stirs them up to do as he had done, v. 5.
The filling of our hands (so the Heb. is) with the
service of God, intimates that we must serve Him
only, serve Him liberally, and serve Him in the
strength of grace derived from Him.

willing? Now let him show it.

Who is

II. How handsomely they all contributed toward the building of the temple, when thus stirred up to it, v. 6. They offered with a perfect heart, from a good principle, and with a sincere respect to the glory of God. v. 9. How generous

thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art hexalted as head above all.

12 Both riches and honor come of thee, and thou kreignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.

13 Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious

name.

14 But who am I, and what is my people, P that we should be able to offer so 4 willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and † of thine own have we given thee,

15 For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: 'our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none § abiding.

16 O LORD our God,

oring God thus with their substance, and glad of the prospect of bringing this good work to perfection. Or, the common people rejoiced in the generosity of their princes, that they had such rulers over them, as were forward to this good work. Every Israelite was as glad, and David rejoiced with great joy. Note, It is a great reviving to good men, when leaving the world, to see those they leave behind, zealous for religion, and likely to keep it up; Lord, now lettest thou thy servant de part in peace.

V. 10-22. We have here,

I. The solemn address David made to God, on

occasion of the noble subscriptions of the princes,
toward the building of the temple, 10. David
was now old, and looked upon himself as near his
end; and it well becomes aged saints, and dying
saints, to have their hearts much enlarged in praise
and thanksgiving. David's psalms, toward the
latter end of the book, are most of them psalans
nearer we come to the world of

they were, ap- ❘ of praise. The
"all this store, that we
have prepared to build
thee an house for thine
holy name, cometh of
thine hand, and is all
thine own.

17 I know also, my
God, that thou * triest
the heart, and hast
pleasure in uprightness.
As for me, in the up-
rightness of mine heart
have I willingly offered
all these things: and now
have I seen with joy
thy people, which are
|| present here, to offer
willingly unto thee.

18 O LORD God of
Abraham, Isaac, and of
Israel, our fathers, keep

n Ex. 25:2-9. 35:5,&c. Num. 7:2,3,
10-14,&c. Ezra 1:4-6. 2:63,69. 7:
15,16.

Heb. to fill his hand,

o 27:1. Is. 60:3-10.

p 26:21,22. Jehieli.

q Deut. 16:10,11. Judg. 5:9. Ps. 110:

3. 2 Cor. 8:3,12. 9:7,8.

r 17. 1 K. 8:61

& Prov. 23:15,16. Luke 15:6. John 15:
11. Phil. 2:15-17. 4:1,10. 1 Thes.
3:6-9.

1 20. 2 Chr. 20:26,27. Ps. 103:1,2.
138:1. 146:2.

u 1 K. 8:15. 2 Chr. 6:4. Ps. 72:18,19.
Ez. 3:12. Eph. 1:3. 1 Fet. 1:3.

x Gen. 32:28. 33:20.

y Is. 63:16. Matt. 6:9. Luke 11:2.

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.

Rom. 1:7. 8:15. Phil. 4:20. 2 Thes.
2:16.

c Dan. 4:30.34,35. Matt. 6:13. Tim
1:17. 6-15,16. Jinde 25. Rev. 4:14,
11. 5:12,13. 7:9-12. 19:1
d 1 Sam. 15:29. Marg. Pa. 1.
e Job 37:22. P. 29:4. 45:3,4, 10:1
145:12. 18. 2:10. Heb. 1:3.
f Gen. 1:1. 14:19,22. Ps. 115:15,
18. 42:5. 66:1. Jer. 10:10-12 1
Dan. 4:32,34,35.

g Ps. 97:1. 99:1. 145:1,12,13. Das.
4:3. Rev. 11:15.

h Neh. 9:5. Ps. 21:13. 45:10. 47:4
57:5,11. 97:9. Is. 2:11. 124.
1 Deut. 8:18. 1 Sam. 27,8. Job
Ps. 75:6,7. 113:7,8. Pret. 182
Luke 1:51-53. Res. 11:35,35.
k Dan. 6:26.

1 Job 9:19. Pa. 62:11. Is. 43:13、徐
10. Dan. 5:18-21 Matt. 238
John 19:11. Eph. 320. Rev. 116
m 2 Chr. 16:9. Ps. 18:31,323
29:1,11. 68.31,35. 144:1, s. 45:
24. Eph. 3:16. Phil. 4:13. Cal 1.11.
n Ps. 105:1. 106.1. Dan. 2:23.1
Cor. 2:14. 8:16. 9:15. 1 Thes. 213.
o Gen. 32:10. 2 Sam. 7:18. Da
1 Cor. 15:9,10. 2 Cor. 35. 18:3ーいし。
p Ps. 115:1. Rev. 4:10.
Heb. retain, or obsaia trangth
ຖຸ 9. Pil. 2:13. Jam 1:17.
r Gen. 28:22. P., 50:10-12
11:36. 1 Cor. 15:2

Heb. of thine hand.

s Gen. 47:9. Pa 59:12. 119-19. Heb

11:13-16. 1 Pet. 2:11.

t Job 14:2. Ps. 90:9. 10:11. Hel

Ec. 6:12. Jam. 4:14.

§ Heb. erpcciaion.

14. 2 Chr. 31:10. Ps. 20:1. Es

2:8. Luke 19:16.

28:9. Deut. 8:2, 1 Sam. 15:7. P

7:9 51:6. Prov. 16:2. 엄호 Jer.

17:10. Heb. 4:12. Rev. 23.

y Prov. 11:20. 15:8.9. John L
2 Acts 24:16. 2 Cor. 1:12. 1 Thes. 28.
a 2 Philem. 7:20.

Heb. found.

b Ex. 3:6,15, 4:5. Matt. 22:32. Ac 3:13.

c Deut. 30:6, Γ... 51.10. 119:116,117 Jer. 10:23. 32:39,40. Phil. 16,9-لا 1 Thes. 3:11,12. Heb. 12:21.

V. 1-9. The due support and scriptural promotion of religion, the example: and then a hint from them will go further, than a is always more important, and in many cases more arduous, than labored and eloquent oration from a man, who persuades others the administration of civil government: because the honor of to those things, which he himself evidently does not practise.God, and the most essential interests of immortal souls, are con- Our holy joy in God will commonly bear proportion to the wir cerned in it; compared with which all other interests are trivial. ingness, uprightness, and liberality, with which we devote our all They alone, whom the Lord hath chosen for such a work, will to Him. The bodily pain and infirmities of age, and the chilling prosper in it; and it is the duty of all to assist by every proper hand of death, while they indispose us for all other enjoyments, mean in their power. Strong affection to God, and to all that or separate us from thein, cannot preclude or extinguish this, relates to Him for his sake, will constrain men to the most dis- which emulates that of angels, who rejoice over one sinner that interested, self-denying, and liberal services. Those who would repenteth."

excite others to consecrate their service to the Lord, must set

SCOTT.

(4-7.) 'According to the usual estimates, the treasure accumulated last three estimates. And when we consider David's successful war for the temple, would be nearly £1,000,000,000, stg. There may be with the nations around, we may be satisfied he would have been alle a corruption or error; we know not the comparative value of the pre- to collect very large treasures. See W. Brown and T. H. Horne. cious metals then, nor of their means of procuring them, nor their de

HENRY abr.

gree of purity; several sorts of gold are mentioned in the SS. And if the Verses 18, 19. "talent" here was Syriac, the amount would be only 7,000,000; if Lord God, &c. (18) or, JEHOVAH our Father, the God of Israel' Babylonish, 30,000,000; or if the Arabic vers. of 1 Chr. 22:14. is correct, In this view, the words may be considered, as the first instance in "gold 1000 talents, and silver 1000 talents," this would be 50, to 60 Scripture, of God being addressed in prayer, as Our Father. Met millions. Either estimate brings the amount within the bounds of 6:9.) This is properly the language of the Spirit of adoption. (Rom probability. Eastern kings and princes have, in all ages, been accus- 8:14-17.)-All that treasure, they gave the Lord to build his tem tomed to lay up vast quantities of gold and silver. Dow (Hist. of was his own before; if they had attempted to keep it, death would Hindostan) mentions princes possessing larger sums than either of the soon have removed them so that the only use they could make of t [430]

this for ever in the imagination of the thoughts

of the heart of thy people, and prepare their heart unto thee.

19 And give unto Solomon my son a perfect heart, to keep thy commandments, thy testimonies, and thy statutes, and to do all these things, and to build the palace, for the which I

have made provision. (Practical Observations.]

20 ↑ And David said

to all the congregation, Now bless the LORD your God. And all the congregation blessed the LORD God of their fathers, and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the Lord, and the king.

21 And they sacrificed sacrifices unto the LORD, and offered burnt

offerings unto the LORD,

everlasting praise, the more we should speak the
language, and do the work, of that world. In
this address,

1. He adores God, and ascribes glory to Him,
as the God of Israel, blessed for ever and ever. Our
Lord's prayer ends with a doxology, much like
this which David here begins with. This is pro-
perly praising God, with holy awe and reverence,
and agreeable affection, acknowledging his infi-
nite perfections; not only that He is great, pow-
erful, glorious, &c. but that He is so in, and of,
Himself; He is the Fountain and Centre of every
thing bright and blessed. All that we can, in our
most exalted praises attribute to Him, He has an
unquestionable title to. His is the greatness, im-
mense, incomprehensible; His is the power, al-
mighty and irresistible; His is the glory; for his
glory is his own end, and the end of the whole
creation: His is the victory; He transcends and
surpasses all, and is able to conquer and subdue
all things to Hinself; and his is the majesty;
with Him is terrible majesty, inexpressible and
inconceivable.

2. He acknowledges with thankfulness the grace of God enabling them to contribute so cheerfully, v. 13, 14. Note, The more we do for God, the

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vice of a frail and short life, therefore what can we pretend to merit by it!

(2.) Of thine own have we given Thee, v. 14. and again, v. 16. It cometh of thine hand, and is all thine own. 'We have it from Thee, as a free

gift, therefore are bound to use it for 'Thee; and what we present to Thee, is but rent or interest from thine own.' 'In like manner' (says Patrick) we ought to acknowledge God in all spiritual things, referring every good thought, good purpose, good work, to his grace, from whom we receive it. Let him that glories, therefore, glory in the Lord.

(3.) He appeals to God concerning his own sincerity, v. 17. It is a great satisfaction to a good man, to think that God tries the heart, and has pleasure in uprightness; that whoever misinterpret or contemn it, He is acquainted with, and approves the way of the righteous. David was neither proud of his own good work, nor envious of the good work of others.

(4.) He prays to God both for the people and for Solomon, that both might hold on as they began. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were kept in their integrity, by the grace of God establishing their way; let the same grace that was sufficient

more we are indebted to Him for the honor of be- for them, be so for us. Great consequences deing employed in his service, and for grace enabling pend on what is innermost, and what uppermost, us, in any measure, to serve Him. Does He there-in our heart; what we aim at, and what we love fore thank that servant? Luke 17: 9. No: but that to think of, v. 18. If any good have got possesservant has great reason to thank Him. It is a great instance of God's grace in us, to be able to do the work of God willingly. Ps. 110: 3. We must give God all the glory of all the good at any on the morrow after that time done by ourselves or others; He works both day, even a thousand to will and to do. Our own good works must not bullocks, thousand be the matter of our pride, nor the good works of rams, and a thousand others the matter of our flattery, but both the matlambs, with their 'drink- ter of our praise: for certainly it is the greatest offerings, and sacrifices honor and pleasure in the world, faithfully to serve in abundance for all Is

rael;

a

22 And did meat and drink before the LORD on that day with great gladness. And

they

made Solomon the son of David king "the second time, and anointed

d 23:9. Gen. 6:5. Pa. 119:113.

* Heb. sinäsh. Ps. 10:17. 2 Thes. 2:

15,17. 1 Pet. 5.10.

e 28:9. Pa. 72:1. 119:80. Jam. 1:17. 12. 22:14.

18:35. 2 Chr. 20:21. Ps. 134:2. 135:

19-21. 146:1,2. 148:13,14,&c.

h Gen. 24:26,48. Ex. 4:31. Ps. 29:1,2,

95:6.

1 Ex. 14:31. 1 Sam. 12:18. Frov. 24:

1. 1 Pet. 2:17.

15. 8:62-65. 2 Chr. 7:4-9.

6.17.

1 L. 23:13. Num. 15:5,7.10.

14-17.

Ezra

24:11 Deut 12:7,11,12. 16:

2 Chr. 7:10. Neh. 8:12.

God.

3. He speaks very humbly of himself, and his people, and the offerings they had now presented to God.

(1.) David was the most honorable person, and Israel the most honorable people, then in the world; yet thus he speaks of himself and them as

unworthy the divine cognizance and favor. An

on

earth are as

gels in heaven are at home there, saints on earth
but strangers here, v. 15. our days
a shadow. David's days had as much of substance
in them as most men's; for he was a great, a good,
a useful, and now, an oli man; one that lived
long, and to good purpose: yet he puts himself
not only into the number, but in the front, of those
who must acknowledge that their days on the earth
are as a shadow; which intimates that our life is
vain, dark, transient, a life that will have its pe-
riod in perfect light, or perfect darkness. The
next words explain it, there is no abiding, Heb. no
expectation. We cannot expect any great matters
from it, nor can we expect any long continuance

E: 2:24. 3:12,13. 8:15. 9:7. 1 of it. This is mentioned here, as that which for-
Tim. 6:17,18.
a 23:1.

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sion of our hearts, or the hearts of our friends, it is good by prayer to commit the custody of it to the grace of God: Lord, keep it there, for ever there. David has prepared materials for the temple; but, Lord, do thou prepare the people's hearts for such a privilege; establish their hearts, so the margin. Confirm their resolutions; they are in a good mind, keep them so, when I am gone, them and theirs for ever. He had charged Solomon, ch. 28: 9. to serve God with a perfect heart, now here (v. 19.) he prays to God to give him such a heart. He does not pray, 'Lord, make him rich, great, learned; but, Lord, make him honest;' that is better than all. His building the house would not prove him to have a perfect heart, unless he made conscience of keeping God's commandments. Helping to build churches, will not save us, if we live in disobedience to God's law.

,

II. The cheerful concurrence of this great assembly in this great solemnity, v. 20. Whoever is the mouth of the congregation, those only have the benefit, who join with him, not by bowing down the head, so much as by lifting up the soul.

They paid their respects to the king, looking on him as an instrument in God's hand of much good to them; and in honoring him, they honored God.

They made Solomon king, the second time. He having been before anointed, in haste, on occasion of Adonijah's rebellion, it was thought fit to repeat it, for the greater satisfaction of the people. They anointed him to the Lord. Magistrates must look on themselves as set apart for God, to be his ministers, and must rule accordingly in the fear of God. Zadok also was anointed to be

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.

V. 10-19. Those, who are most zealous of good works, into our hearts, or the hearts of others, we should never forget will never boast of them, or trust in them. To them it appears to pray to Him to preserve and fix them there, and to bring them an unspeakable favor, that a holy God will accept any worship to good effect. When we feel that there is no abiding for us on or service from such polluted creatures; they are conscious that earth, we should be peculiarly fervent in our prayers, that those their best needs forgiveness, falls infinitely beneath his glorious who are to succeed us, or whom we consider as having profited majesty, and is utterly unworthy his acceptance. In like man- by our instructions, may have their hearts prepared unto the ner, we ought to acknowledge God in all spiritual things: refer- LORD,' and disposed for the work to which they are called. Paring every good thought, good purpose, good work, to his divine rents and ministers also, when they perceive any of their children grace, from whom we receive it; beseeching him, as David doth, or people under serious impressions, should travail in birth for ... to preserve it in us.' Patrick. Thus our best and most useful them till Christ be formed in them, by earnest, constant prayworks will terminate in admiration of his inconceivable majesty, er, that the LORD would keep for ever in the imaginations of goodness, power, and holiness; in unfeigned praises and thanks the thoughts of their hearts, those good desires which He has givings; and in the deepest self-abasement before Him. This is excited, and prepare their hearts unto Himself.' (Gal. 4: 17 genuine grace. While we bless the Lord for putting good desires -20. Col. 2: 1-4.)

to their own real advantage, was thus to consecrate it to the service of Him who gave it, and whose gracious acceptance of their oblation would add still more to their obligations. Nothing on this side heaven can be conceived, more humble, pure, evangelical, spiritual, devout, or exalted, than the praise, adoration, gratitude, confidence, love, zeal, and philanthropy, breathing through this address.

Scott.

Verses 21-25.

Scott.

As Abiathar was removed from the high priesthood, and Zadok substituted in his place, after David's death; it has been thought, that the second anointing of Solomon was also subsequent to that event. (1h. 2: 26, 27.) The whole kingdom was peculiarly Gon's. We may suppose that every kind of personal accomplishment united with justice, [431]

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priest, in the room of Abiathar, who had lately
forfeited his honor. Happy art thou, O Israel,
under such a prince, and such a pontiff.

V. 23-30. These vs. bring king Solomon to
his throne, and king David to his grave.

I. Solomon (v. 23.) sat on the throne of the
Lord, because the Lord is not only King of all na-
tions, and all kings rule under Him, but He was,
in a peculiar manner, King of Israel, 1 Sam. 12:
12. The municipal laws of their kingdom were
divine! Urim and prophets were the privy-coun-
sellors of their princes, therefore is their throne
called the throne of the Lord. Solomon's kingdom
typified the Messiah's, and his is indeed the throne
of the Lord; for the Father judgeth no man, but
hath committed all judgment to Him; hence He
calls Him his King, Ps. 2: 6. Called of God to
the throne, he prospered. They that follow the
divine guidance, may expect the divine blessing.

years reigned he in He-
bron, and thirty and
three years reigned he
in Jerusalem.

28 And he died in ba
good old age, "full of
days, riches, and honor;
and Solomon his son
reigned in his stead.

29 Now the acts of David the king, first and last, behold, they are

1

The Lord magnified Solomon exceedingly, v. 25. His very countenance and presence, I am apt to think, had something very great and awful: all he said, and all he did, commanded respect.

II. The historian brings David to the end of his days. v. 26, 27. He, as Moses, Othniel, Deborah, Gideon, Eli, Samuel, and Saul, before him, and Solomon after him, reigned forty years. A good man will soon be full of days, riches, and honor, v. 28. but will never be satisfied with them; no satisfaction but in God's loving kindness.

For a fuller account of David's life and reign, he refers his reader to the histories or records of those times, written by Samuel while he lived, and continued, after his death, by Nathan and Gad, v. 29. These registers are now lost. Note, Good use may be made of those histories of the church, which are authentic, though not sacred, or inspired.

written in the † book of
Samuel the seer, and
in the book off Nathan
the prophet, and in the
book of Gad the seer,

30 With all his reign
and his might, and the
times that went over
him, and over Israel, and
over all the kingdoms
of the countries.
p 1 K. 2:35.

q 17:11,12. 28:5. Ps. 132:11. Js. 9:

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.

V. 20-30. They, who render God due honor, will seldom fail duly to respect the instruments of his kindness to them, or to honor those whom He has placed over them.--All our obedience and communion with God must have a believing reference to that one great sacrifice, which infinitely more honors his law and justice, than all the oblations which shadowed it forth to ancient believers: thus, peace with Him, peace of conscience, and gladness of heart will make sacred ordinances pleasant; and even render our ordinary meals subservient to our spiritual improvement, and the honor of wisdom, and prosperity, in that royal majesty bestowed on Solomon, and by which God magnified him in the sight of Israel. (M. R.) Scort (24.) Submitted.] Heb. "gave the hand under; " a beautiful ori

6,7.

г 22:11.

Ес. 8:2-5. Rom. 13:1. t 22:17. 8:21.

u 3:3-9. 1 Κ. 1:50-53, 2:24,25. Heb. gave the hand under. Gen. : 2. 47:29. 2 Chr. 30:8. marg. Ex. 17:18.

x Josh. 3:7. 4:14. 2 Chr. 1:1. Job 7:17. Acts 19:17.

y I K. 3:13. 2 Chr. 1:12. Ec. 2:9. Dan.

5:18,19. Heb. 2:9.

7 18:14. Ps. 78:71,72.

a 3:4. 2 Sam. 5:4,5. 1 K. 2:11.

b Gen. 15:15. 25:8. Job 5:26. Prov.

16:31. Acts 13:36.

c 23:1. Gen. 35:29.

d 1 K. 11:41. 14:29. Heb. 11:32,30.

† Or, history.

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1 Sam. 9:9.

Heb. words.

f 2 Sam. 7:2-4. 12:1-7. 21:9-11.

h 2 K. 10:34. 14:28.

1 Dan. 21.

God; while they are attended with gratitude, temperance, liberality, and a heavenly mind.-Let us mark the difference between the spirit and character of the man after God's own heart, living and dying, and those of such worthless professors, as resemble him in nothing but his sin, and who apologize for their crimes by his example. Let us also compare him with those who profanely carp at the blemishes in illustrious scriptural characters; but nev er raise their minds to an idea of such exalted excellency, piety, and philanthropy, as David showed.

SCOTT.

to a superior; he stands at a short distance, then stooping, he keeps moving his hands to the ground, and says, "I submit, my lord." "Well, Kandan and Chinnan have settled their quarrel now, for Chinnan went to him last evening, and gave his hand under." "The Modeliar [an officer) is no longer angry with me, because I have put down my hand to the ground." "That rebellious son has, for many years, refused to acknowledge his father's authority, but has at last put his hand under," i. e. submitted to him, become obedient.' ROBERTS.

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Verses 26-28.

(M. R.) When we read 2 Sam. 12 ch. and the sequel, we could scarcely expect to behold David appear so illustrious in his closing scene, in which every thing heavenly and excellent is combined; and the people seem to have considered him with a veneration and affection, which language fails to express. But his repentance had been af remarkable as his sins; and his conduct, during his afflictions, and towards the end of his life, seems to have had more effect on his subjects, than all they had before witnessed. It is indeed hard to say, which shines the brightest in this ch. the rising, or the setting sun: but it is better to rise behind clouds, and to be much obscured in the course of our lives, and to set, like David, with splendor; than with Solomon to rise very bright, and shine very splendid, and then to set behind an almost impenetrable cloud. (1 Κ. 11:42, 43.)

For a view of David's character, see at the end of 1 K.

Verses 29, 30.

Scort.

ED.

It is plain from these vs. that the contemporary prophets were the historians, or annalists, of God's people; and that they left far more copious records of public transactions, both in respect of Israel and the adjacent countries, than have come down to us. (2 Sam. 24:11.) Learned men may indeed regret the loss of these histories; but 'God knows better than we, what was most fit to be preserved for the use and benefit of his church. Patrick.

entalism to denote submission. See the man who wishes to submit
TABLE OF THE MOST REMARKABLE PARALLEL PASSAGES OF THE BOOKS OF CHR. AND THOSE OF SAM. AND KINGS.

1 Chronicles with

10:1-12.

11:1-9.

11:10-41.

13:1-14.

14:1-7.

17:

18:

19:

20:1-3.

20:4-8.

21:

2 Chronicles with

1:3-13.

1:14-17.

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As these books relate the same histories, they should be constantly read and collated together, to obtain a more comprehensive view of Jew

ish history, and also to illustrate or amend from one what is obscure in either.-Horne.

HENRY abr.

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