1 Chronicles 21:26

“And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and called upon the LORD; and he answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt offering.”

Passage Overview:1 Chronicles 21:26 (KJV) says, “And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and called upon the LORD; and he answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt offering.”

This verse describes an event in the life of King David when he built an altar to the Lord after a significant incident involving a census. The verse highlights David’s response to God’s intervention and how God responded to David’s actions.

Context and Background:Before delving into the specific verse, it’s essential to understand the context and background of the passage. In 1 Chronicles 21, we read about David’s decision to conduct a census of the people of Israel, which was a sinful act in the eyes of God. This act was motivated by David’s pride and desire to boast in the size of his kingdom.

God was displeased with David’s actions and sent the prophet Gad to give him three options for punishment: three years of famine, three months of defeat at the hands of his enemies, or three days of a deadly plague. David chose the latter, trusting in the Lord’s mercy rather than the hands of his enemies.

Analysis of 1 Chronicles 21:26:

Let’s break down the verse and explore its significance:

• “And David built there an altar unto the LORD”
• “And offered burnt offerings and peace offerings”
• “And called upon the LORD”
• “And he answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt offering”

After the plague had ravaged the land for three days, David realized the gravity of his sin and the devastation it had caused. In response, he built an altar to the Lord. Building an altar was a common practice in the Old Testament to offer sacrifices and seek forgiveness and reconciliation with God. It was an act of humility and repentance.