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David Guzik · Citado em PreceptAustin
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Guzik - Some ancient traditions attribute this understanding of the times to skill in astrology, yet there is no foundation for this speculation. Instead, we should simply see that these sons of Issachar were men who supported King Saul up until the right time and at the right time gave their support to David. Related Resources: Who was Issachar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.org Understanding (0998) binah means "understanding, insight, discernment, i.e., a good sense or wisdom to respond properly to the LORD and his Torah (Dt 4:6), (2) understand, i.e., to be given a revelation as well as its meaning (Da 10:1); (3) understand, i.e., skillfully react to life situations (1Ch 12:32." Binah "carries strong moral and religious connotations. In Job 28:28, the act of turning away from evil was said to be understanding and was based on a prior proper discernment of what was evil. A lack of this kind of understanding was morally culpable and resulted in sin and even drove away God’s compassion for persons who did not have it (Isa. 27:11). Happily, understanding as a moral or religious entity can be acquired (Pr 4:5, 7) and even increased (Isa. 29:24) by seeking after it diligently. The understanding that God desires has a cognitive dimension, therefore, as further illustrated when the author of Proverbs spoke of words of “understanding” (Pr 1:2). The understanding and discernment that is the object of all knowing is the knowledge of the Holy One (Pr 9:10). Understanding is to mark God’s people. It is not surprising, therefore, to learn that by means of understanding, God made all His created order (cf. Ps. 136:5). God has graciously endowed human beings with the ability of understanding and comprehension, but this faculty is not infallible, and, therefore, we are to ask God for guidance at all times (Pr 3:5). Our own ability of understanding should, however, function to give us discernment, for instance, in showing a proper attitude toward seeking the riches of this world (Pr 23:4). Our understanding is also the ability that enables us to understand languages (Isa. 33:19), literature, visions, and dreams (Da 1:20-note). It is the ability that decodes the symbols of communication for us. The writer of Proverbs personifies understanding along with wisdom in the famous wisdom chapter of Proverbs (Pr 2:3; 8:14)." (Complete Word Study Dictionary) UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do.... 1 Chronicles 12:32. These men had more than a knowledge of the times. News commentators today have great knowledge of the times, but they do not understand them in the light of God's Word. These children of Issachar had the kind of understanding that produced knowledge, the practical knowledge of what God's people ought to do. This world does not understand the times nor does it know what to do nor would it do it, if it did understand. God's people ought to know what to do because they do understand the times and, knowing the season, that it is high time to wake up! Coram Deo - A Look at Existentialism (What is existentialism? | GotQuestions.org) “Men of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do.” [1 Chron. 12:32a] Mighty men joined David when he became king. Among them were the sons of Issachar, men who understood their times, and knew how to act in their world. As we seek to understand our times, so that we might join with the greater David, let us consider the philosophy of existentialism. Existentialism deals with the human predicament, that is, with existence. Starting with people and their problems, existentialists have tended to reject traditional avenues of philosophical writing and instead have written novels, plays, and films. Important existential philosophers include Jean-Paul Sartre, Martin Heidegger, and Albert Camus. Friedrich Nietzsche was an influential late nineteenth century “pre-existentialist.” The basic formula of the existentialists is this: “Existence precedes essence.” This means that there is no “human nature” created by a transcendent God that defines who we are. Rather, the reverse is the case: First we simply are, and then we make ourselves who we are by our own decisions. With no transcendent world, death means annihilation of the personality. We live, say the existentialists, on the edge of the void of nothingness. Behind human life is an instinctive dread of this nothingness. This dread manifests itself as an unspecified anxiety that warps everything we do. Most people never come to grips with this ultimate nothingness. The existentialists, however, call on people to courageously face the fact that there is no God, no transcendence, and no future. So bleak is this prospect that existentialists admit suicide is an option that must be considered. It is soon rejected, however. The courageous person decides to face up to this inescapable anxiety and dread instead of evading its burdensome truth. Coram Deo - Existentialism sounds courageous, but in reality is a cowardly and escapist refusal to come to grips with reality and the coming day of judgment. It is a vain attempt to escape from the awful sense of accountability that will be required by God of all people. The dread they sense is the fear spoken of in Hebrews: It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. As a Christian thank God that Christ has spared you from the penalty and wrath of the judgment of your sins. Don Fortner - Discovering Christ Day by Day - “Understanding of the times” 1 Chronicles 12:32 It was the peculiar honour of the sons of Issachar that “they were men that had understanding of the times”. Israel was passing through some troublesome, unsettling times. Critical issues had to be faced and dealt with. The Lord had now established David as king over his people. But Saul had just been slain. And some of the tribes of Israel did not know what to do. The question of the day in Palestine was, “Who should be king?” Many in Israel did not know whether to accept David as their king, or not. Some were inclined to seek a king from Saul’s family, and would not commit themselves to David. Others boldly came forward and proclaimed David as their rightful king. David’s Men From among the Benjamites were mighty men and helpers of the war. “They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones and shooting arrows out of a bow.” From among the Gadites were men of might, men of war. Those mighty men who came to David in Ziklag were utterly devoted to the king. “Then the spirit came upon Amasai, who was chief of the captains, and he said, Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. Then David received them, and made them captains of the band.” From among Zebulon, there came to David men expert in war who could keep rank, and “they were not of double heart”. Among these bold and valiant men were the children of Issachar. And in our text the Holy Spirit singles out these men for one particular and very significant characteristic. He says of the children of Issachar that they “were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do”. I do not doubt that this sentence, like every sentence of Holy Scripture, was written for our learning. These men of Issachar are set before us as a pattern to be imitated and an example to be followed. If we would be useful to our generation, nothing is more important than this: we must understand the times in which we live and know what it is that these times require of us. We must seek the grace and wisdom of God to understand the times in which we live, and to know what Israel ought to do in these days. The Demands Of The Day The day in which we live demands men of courage, boldness, and extremity for the cause of Christ in this world. The world has never known such perilous times as these. Men today are perishing in a church pew, going to hell with a prayer on their lips, a song in their hearts, and a Bible in their hands. Surely this day demands something from us. It demands men with courageous hearts, bold spirits, and extreme dedication to the Gospel of Christ. The souls of men and the glory of Christ compel us to be men of purpose and determination. What does our day require of us? What must Israel do in this day? What do the times in which we live demand of the people of God? This is a day that demands a bold, uncompromising, unflinching adherence to the authority of Holy Scripture. Let all men know, by unflinching testimony from your lips, that the Holy Bible is the Word, the only written revelation of the only true and living God. These days of darkness demand of us distinct and decided testimony to gospel doctrine. Let no one be ashamed to testify to all, in public and in private the utter depravity of the human race, God’s unconditional electing love, Christ’s particular and effectual atonement, the irresistible grace and power of God the Holy Spirit, and the sure perseverance of every sinner saved by the grace of God. These dark days of self-serving false prophets, hired for a dime and a smile, demand faithfulness, dedication, and sacrifice in preaching the gospel of Christ. Let us pray daily for God to raise up Elijahs and John the Baptists in our midst, men who will boldly proclaim the gospel, with fire from heaven burning in their bellies. These days of great need demand from every believing sinner, saved by the grace of God, a clear recognition of our most important priorities and our most weighty responsibilities. Child of God, consecrate your life to Christ. In the totality of your being worship and serve him who loved you and gave himself for you. Once more, this dark, dark day of religious wickedness demands that each of us exercise a diligent watchfulness over our own souls. Blessed Holy Spirit, be my Teacher and Comforter every day and every hour, constantly convincing me of my sin, of Christ’s finished and perfect righteousness as the Lord my Righteousness, and of judgment finished by my Redeemer’s one sacrifice for sin! David Rudolph - Voice of the Lord - Of the descendants of Yissakhar, men who understood the times and knew what Isra’el ought to do, there were 200 leaders, and all their kinsmen were under their command (1 Chron. 12:32). Vladimir Jabotinsky was a volcano of Zionist vision, rhetoric and action, who trained and inspired modern Israeli leaders like Menachem Begin. When much of European Jewry was enjoying a false security at the end of the 19th century, inspired by the Age of Enlightenment which had been co-opted into Jewish religious circles as Haskalah (Enlightenment), Jabotinsky was screaming at the top of his lungs, “The ground of Europe is burning under your feet, and you do not smell the smoke! Get out while you can! Let us rebuild our Homeland!” Jabotinsky saw what very few around him could see, even though they were all looking at the same thing. The Tanakh (1 Chron. 12:32) accords the tribe of Issachar the same compliment during the rise of King David. The Scriptures give us a thrilling and tantalizing summons, “ADONAI, God, does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). Happily, God’s desire is for us to know what is going on. God is not playing hide-and-seek with us. Even when God tells us, “I am doing something new” (Isa. 43:19), he continues with an almost playful invitation for us to join with him, to know his mind, “… it’s springing up—can’t you see it?” (Isa. 43:19). We can, for we have the mind of Messiah. Today I Will … ask God to deepen my understanding of his plans for my generation, and seek to strengthen my connection to his purposes. A W Tozer- Prophetic Preachers And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred. —1 Chronicles 12:32 A prophet is one who knows his times and what God is trying to say to the people of his times.… Today we need prophetic preachers—not preachers of prophecy merely, but preachers with a gift of prophecy. The word of wisdom is missing. We need the gift of discernment again in our pulpits. It is not ability to predict that we need, but the anointed eye, the power of spiritual penetration and interpretation, the ability to appraise the religious scene as viewed from God’s position, and to tell us what is actually going on.… What is needed desperately today is prophetic insight. Scholars can interpret the past; it takes prophets to interpret the present. Learning will enable a man to pass judgment on our yesterdays, but it requires a gift of clear seeing to pass sentence on our own day.… Another kind of religious leader must arise among us. He must be of the old prophet type, a man who has seen visions of God and has heard a voice from the Throne. Lord, I pray for that gift of prophetic insight. Move me beyond the knowledge You’ve enabled me to gain through education, reading and study. I pray that I might lead as one “who has seen visions of God and has heard a voice from the throne.” Amen. (from Tozer for the Christian Leader) 1 Chronicles 12:33 Of Zebulun, there were 50,000 who went out in the army, who could draw up in battle formation with all kinds of weapons of war and helped David with an undivided heart. expert in war: or, rangers of battle, or ranged in battle, keep rank. or, set the battle in array. they were not of double heart. Heb. they were without a heart and a heart. That is, they were all sincerely affected towards David, though so numerous. Ps 12:2 Joh 1:47 Of Zebulun (SEE MAP FOR TRIBE LOCATION), there were 50,000 who went out in the army, who could draw up in battle formation with all kinds of weapons of war and helped David with an undivided heart. - They were not of double heart. · To help David with undivided loyalty (NIV). · Helped David with an undivided heart (NASB). · Completely loyal to David (NLT). "with singleness of purpose" (NRSV) The idea behind undivided is that these were men of a single or whole heart in their devotion to King David. F B
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Guzik - Because they were completely committed to their king, they could also keep ranks – that is, they stayed tight in their formations even in the heat of battle. Their single devotion to their king made them able to stay together as a single unit.
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Guzik - During David’s time in Ziklag, certain mighty warriors came and expressed their allegiance to David and his cause. This was especially remarkable because they were of Benjamin, Saul’s brethren and therefore had much to gain from Saul’s continued reign. They chose David over Saul because they knew that God was with David. Judges 3:15 and Judges 20:16 make special reference to left-handed warriors; how much more if the soldiers can use both the right hand and the left! Walton - ambidextrous warriors. Left-handedness was not acceptable in the ancient world because it was generally associated with evil or demons. As a result, anyone who was left-handed became ambidextrous because the use of the left hand in many situations was not approved. In battle, however, the ability to use either hand could become a distinct advantage. For instance, battle strategies were often designed to force the enemy to be moving to their left while fighting. For a righthanded soldier, this would put his shield (in his left hand) away from the enemy and expose him to attack. An ambidextrous soldier could easily switch the shield to his right hand without compromising his ability to fight as he moved. An ambidextrous bowman using a tree or rock for protection would have a wider range of target available because he could shoot from either side without exposing himself to the enemy. (IVP Background Commentary - pate 416) 1 Chronicles 12:3 The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth, and Beracah and Jehu the Anathothite, Shemaah: or, Hasmaah Gibeathite: 1Sa 11:4 2Sa 21:6 Azmaveth: 1Ch 11:33 the Antothite: 1Ch 11:28 1 Chronicles 12:3 The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth, and Beracah and Jehu the Anathothite, 1 Chronicles 12:4 and Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty, and over the thirty. Then Jeremiah, Jahaziel, Johanan, Jozabad the Gederathite, Gibeonite: Jos 9:3,17-23 a mighty man: 1Ch 11:15 Gederathite: Jos 15:36 and Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man (gibbor; Lxx - dunatos) among the thirty, and over the thirty. Then Jeremiah, Jahaziel, Johanan, Jozabad the Gederathite - See David's Mighty Warriors David’s army seemed to be organized in groups of thirty or the leaders of thirty. In the same way, a Roman centurion was supposedly a leader of one hundred soldiers. Selman - “Certainly ‘Thirty’ is not to be understood in precise numerical terms, as the lists demonstrate, and either is a rather elastic number, or refers to a special kind of military leader. The word ‘Thirty’ may in fact mean an officer of some kind, either an ‘officer of the third rank’ or a member of a special three-man squad directly answerable to the king.” 1 Chronicles 12:5 Eluzai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Shemariah, Shephatiah the Haruphite, Eluzai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Shemariah, Shephatiah the Haruphite, 1 Chronicles 12:6 Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, Jashobeam, the Korahites, Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, Jashobeam, the Korahites, 1 Chronicles 12:7 and Joelah and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor. Gedor: 1Ch 4:18,39 Jos 15:58 and Joelah and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor 1 Chronicles 12:8 And from the Gadites there came over to David in the stronghold in the wilderness, mighty men of valor, men trained for war, who could handle shield and spear, and whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as the gazelles on the mountains. into the hold: 1Ch 12:16 11:16 1Sa 23:14,29 24:22 of war: Heb. of the host handle: 2Ch 25:5 Jer 46:9 whose faces: 1Ch 11:22 2Sa 1:23 17:10 23:20 Pr 28:1 as swift as the roes upon the mountains: Heb. as the roes upon the mountains to make haste, 2Sa 2:18 Pr 6:5 Song 8:14 And from the Gadites there came over to David in the stronghold (metsad) in the wilderness, mighty men (gibbor; Lxx - dunatos)(see discussion above) of valor (chayil; Lxx - ischus), men trained for war, who could handle shield and spear, and whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as the gazelles on the mountains. - Which stronghold? This could reflect David's time at Ziklag (1 Chr. 12:1) the Cave of Adullam (1 Samuel 22) Engedi (1 Sam. 23:29; 24:1) Faces like...lions is an idiom for a ferocious warrior. Compare with 2Sa 1:23 which also animal characteristics to describe the military actions of Saul and Jonathan. Andrew Hill: Unlike the archers and slingers from the tribe of Benjamin who are effective in battle from a distance (1Ch 12:1–7), the Gadite soldiers excel in hand-to-hand combat because of their speed and strength. According to Williamson, the metaphorical comparison of the heroic qualities of warriors with animals (1Ch 12:8) is commonplace in the ancient world to the degree that such designations often become titles for warriors.
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Guzik - As an example of the might of these men, the Chronicler records an instance when these brave warriors crossed the Jordan at a dangerous time (Joshua 3:15 and Joshua 4:18). Walton - The first month begins in March, when the spring temperatures were melting the snow in the mountains and causing the Jordan to reach flood stage. There is an interesting inscription of Sargon II of Assyria (eighth century) where he claims that he led his army across the Tigris and Euphrates at flood stage as on dry ground. On the one hand, this posed considerable risk to those crossing, but on the other hand (for that very reason), it often made surprise attacks possible because no one would be expecting the crossing to be made.(IVP Background Commentary - pate 416) 1 Chronicles 12:16 Then some of the sons of Benjamin and Judah came to the stronghold to David. the children: 1Ch 12:2 the hold: 1Ch 12:8 Then some of the sons of Benjamin and Judah came to the stronghold (metsad) to David - The Septuagint translates stronghold with an interesting (and somewhat surprising) noun boetheia which is used in Acts 27:17 as nautical term meaning support of a ship and in Heb 4:16 means assistance offered to meet a timely need! Liddell-Scott adds this on boetheia - help, aid, rescue, support, medical aid, cure,an auxiliary force. Mark Boda: Only then does the Chronicler introduce defectors from David’s own tribe of Judah, who, together with others from Saul’s tribe Benjamin, approached David at the stronghold to join him. . . David’s speech challenged them to reveal their loyalties; it oriented the discussion theologically by calling on “the God of our ancestors” to judge the answer. The response was given by Amasai (1Ch 12:18), who would later become a leader in “the Thirty” and is probably the later Amasa of Absalom’s revolt (2 Sam 17:25; cf. 1 Chr 2:17). He functions in this narrative as a Spirit-inspired spokesperson (“the Spirit came upon Amasai”). Stronghold (impregnable)(04679) metsad means fastness, stronghold, fortress, and could be man-made or natural defenses that made it difficult for an enemy to access and would provide a place for refugees, etc. - "wilderness strongholds" - 1Sa 23:14, "strongholds at Horesh" - 1Sa 23:19 and "the strongholds of Engedi" - 1Sa 23:29. The righteous will have a refuge in "the impregnable (metsad) rock!" (Isa 33:16) 1 Chr. 11:7 - " David dwelt in the stronghold;(JERUSALEM) therefore it was called the city of David." Gilbrant - In Jdg. 6:2, this defensed area in the mountain is distinguished from caves that served the same purpose (Ezek. 33:27). Yet, as evidenced in the accounts of David hiding himself from Saul in strongholds located in the hilly wilderness of Judah, it is likely that such strongholds were caves. If these were not references to caves, then other natural elements of the land such as clefts, dense woods, ravines and boulders must be in view (see 1 Sam. 23:14, 19, 29; Isa. 33:16). The remaining references indicate a constructed fortress of some sort. After David had conquered the Jebusites who dwelt in Jerusalem (previously, Jebus), 1 Chr. 11:7 says that he "took up residence in the fortress, and so it was called the city of David" (NIV). The entire walled city here was called a stronghold. One final use of metsādh occurs in 1 Chr. 12:8, 16. While David was banished from the presence of Saul, warriors from the various tribes joined with him in established wilderness strongholds. (Complete Biblical Library) Moody's Today in the Word - 1 Chronicles 12:16-22 Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you. - 1 Chronicles 12:18 War Letters: Extraordinary Correspondence from American Wars is a collection of more than 200 letters written by soldiers of all ranks over the last 150 years. “Every day these letters are getting thrown away or lost,” said the editor. “This is a tragedy. They are the first unfiltered draft of history. To me this is the great unknown literature of the American people.” The director of a PBS documentary based on the book added, “There's a drama that happens in war that's like no other. The soldiers are so close to death that they talk about the things that are most important to them. In the letters, you're looking into people's souls.” David's success in war testified to the fact that God's hand was with him—it was as if his army were “the army of God” (v. 22). The returned exiles, the original recipients of this book of Chronicles, needed the encouragement of remembering these “glory days,” while modern readers can learn from the principle that faithfulness and obedience are every believer's strength. Not much is known about Amasai, except that he was later among David's “mighty men.” By the Holy Spirit, Amasai recognized that joining David meant joining God (v. 18). While the Spirit didn't indwell believers in Old Testament times, He did come upon selected people on specific occasions in order to send special messages or empower them for important deeds or acts of service. We also know, of course, that the Spirit inspired the prophets and other writers of Scripture (Heb. 1:1-2). “The army of God” is probably a host of angels. God is often pictured in Scripture as a mighty warrior—for example, in Exodus 15, when Moses and the Israelites praised Him for the miraculous victory over the Egyptians at the Red Sea. A common biblical title for God is better translated “Lord of hosts,” a phrase that the niv translates as “Lord Almighty.” APPLY THE WORD Trusting in God's strength is the only way to true spiritual victory. If you wish, memorize one or more Bible verses to remind yourself of this fact. A good place to start is Philippians 4:13: “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Another helpful verse is 1 Corinthians 1:25: “The weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.” Other good choices for Scripture memorization include Psalm 20:7-8; Psalm 44:1-8; and Psalm 118:14-16. James Smith - Handfuls of Purpose - THINE ARE WE. 1 Chronicles 12:16-18. "Oh, Lord, that I could waste my life on others,WHO IS ON THE LORD’S SIDE? With no ends of my own; That I could pour myself into my brothers, And live for them alone." —Faber. The "love of Christ" is the mightiest motive power that ever touched a human soul, in constraining to self-sacrifice for the good of others. The true Christian is not a self-centred mystic, but a Christ-centred evangelist. He is not only a consumer of the things of God, he is a producer of the fruit of the Spirit. In the light of such like teaching, let us look at this portion. It involved a— I. Decided Step. "There came of the children of Benjamin and Judah to the hold unto David." This may have been the cave of Adullam, or some such secret place of refuge, but to those who came to David it meant on their part a willingness to take their stand for him, and to share, if need be, the shame of rejection with him. The pros and cons about this step would likely be closely discussed before any definite action was taken. Those who would identify themselves with the rejected Son of God will do well to count the cost, but they will do ill if they go on counting and never come. II. Conditional Offer. "David went out to meet them, and said, If ye be come... to help me, my heart shall be knit unto you." David is more anxious for quality than quantity. He well knew that it would not be for the good of his cause to have a heartless crowd following him. All who are prepared to help in the cause of the Lord Jesus Christ may depend on having His heart's affections knit unto them. The Lord's work, like David's, must be heart work. David could see but two motives they could possibly have in coming to him—either to help or to betray; they must be either for him or against him. His heart was open to embrace all who were ready to help him in the cause of God. Did not Christ also declare that "He that is not for Me is against Me?" (Matt. 12:30). Is not His heart also ready to receive all who come unto Him in sincerity and in truth? III. Personal Surrender. "Amasai said, Thine are we, David, and on thy side." He said this after the "Spirit came upon him." It was a Spirit-indited confession; it was a Spirit-led act. There was no uncertainty about it. It implied the yielding of their lives to David for the furtherance of his cause and the fulfilment of his will. In giving themselves to him, they were no longer their own they became his instruments for the carrying on of his work. To be on David's side was to become a sharer of his sorrows, as well as of his resources; a partner in his tribulations, as well as his victories. To become a partner in the resources and triumphs of David's Lord and ours we must also yield ourselves wholly to Him, as those ready to suffer for His sake, if so be that His will might be done in us and by us. His servants ye are to whom ye yield yourselves (Rom. 6:16). Consecration of service will surely follow when, like Amasai, we are clothed with the Spirit (v. 18, margin). IV. Confession of Faith. "Peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee." They were convinced that the God in whom David trusted was with him, and that He is greater than all that were against him. Perhaps it was the evidence of this fact that led them first of all to think of joining his band. Somehow or other men will be drawn to those whom God undoubtedly helps. The man or the cause that is espoused by the Almighty is absolutely certain to succeed. They are wise who join themselves to that movement which has God in it, and that cannot be defeated. Such a movement we have in the work of the Greater David—the Lord Jesus Christ. Did not His God mightily help Him, and are not all His helpers helped of God? What an abundant proof there is that God was in Christ, and that the help that is mighty was laid upon Him. This is seen in His words and works, and especially in His being raised again from the dead. As we can truly say of Him, "Thy God helpeth Thee," (1 Chron. 12:18), so let us also add, "Thine are we, Jesus, Thou Son of God; peace be to Thine helpers." Those who would serve the Lord must not only believe in Him, but also possess such a spirit as will make for peace with all His helpers. V. Successful Issue. "Then David received them, and made them captains of the band." They came in the right spirit, and they found an open door into the heart and service of their Lord. This was no formal reception. They were received as Christ also receives those who so come to Him—into the affection of His heart, and into the sacred business of His life. All who come to the Lord Jesus Christ are welcome to His love and service. But, as it was in David's case, so is it now; these two, favour and service, go together. If these children of Benjamin would enjoy the love of David they must join his service. He made them captains, for they that honour Him shall be honoured (Acts 1:8). 1 Chronicles 12:17 And David went out to meet them, and answered and said to them, "If you come peacefully to me to help me, my heart shall be united with you; but if to betray me to my adversaries, since there is no wrong in my hands, may the God of our fathers look on it and decide." to meet them: Heb. before them If ye be come: 1Sa 16:4 2Sa 3:20-25 1Ki 2:13 2Ki 9:22 Ps 12:1,2 heart: 1Sa 18:1,3 2Ki 10:15 Ps 86:11 2Co 13:11 Php 1:27 knit: Heb. one, Jer 32:39 Ac 4:32 1Co 1:10 wrong: or, violence God: Ge 31:42,53 1Sa 24:11-17 26:23,24 Ps 7:6 1Pe 2:23 rebuke it: Zec 3:2 Jude 1:9 DAVID CALLS ON GOD TO JUDGE HIS ACTIONS And David went out to meet them, and answered and said to them, "If you come peacefully to me to help me, my heart shall be united with you; but if to betray me to my adversaries, since there is no wrong in my hands, may the God of our fathers look on it and decide - David’s suspicions were aroused because of four previous occasions of betrayal: by Doeg the Edomite (1 Sam 22:9ff), by the residents of Keilah (1 Sam 23:1–12); and twice by the residents of Ziph (1 Sam 23:19ff.; 26:1ff.). 1 Chronicles 12:18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, who was the chief of the thirty, and he said, "We are yours, O David, And with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace (shalom) to you, And peace to him who helps you; Indeed, your God helps you!" Then David received them and made them captains of the band. BGT 1 Chronicles 12:19 καὶ πνεῦμα ἐνέδυσε τὸν Αμασαι ἄρχοντα τῶν τριάκοντα καὶ εἶπεν πορεύου καὶ ὁ λαός σου Δαυιδ υἱὸς Ιεσσαι εἰρήνη εἰρήνη σοι καὶ εἰρήνη τοῖς βοηθοῖς σου ὅτι ἐβοήθησέν σοι ὁ θεός σου καὶ προσεδέξατο αὐτοὺς Δαυιδ καὶ κατέστησεν αὐτοὺς ἄρχοντας τῶν δυνάμεων LXE 1 Chronicles 12:18 And the Spirit came upon Amasai, a captain of the thirty, and he said, Go, David, son of Jesse, thou and thy people, peace, peace be to thee, and peace to thy helpers, for thy God has helped thee. And David received them, and made them captains of the forces. KJV 1 Chronicles 12:18 Then the spirit came upon Amasai, who was chief of the captains, and he said, Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. Then David received them, and made them captains of the band. NET 1 Chronicles 12:18 But a spirit empowered Amasai, the leader of the thirty warriors, and he said: "We are yours, O David! We support you, O son of Jesse! May you greatly prosper! May those who help you prosper! Indeed your God helps you!" So David accepted them and made them leaders of raiding bands. CSB 1 Chronicles 12:18 Then the Spirit took control of Amasai, chief of the Thirty, and he said: We are yours, David, we are with you, son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to him who helps you, for your God helps you.So David received them and made them leaders of his troops. ESV 1 Chronicles 12:18 Then the Spirit clothed Amasai, chief of the thirty, and he said, "We are yours, O David, and with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers! For your God helps you." Then David received them and made them officers of his troops. NIV 1 Chronicles 12:18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, chief of the Thirty, and he said: "We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you." So David received them and made them leaders of his raiding bands. NLT 1 Chronicles 12:18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, the leader of the Thirty, and he said, "We are yours, David! We are on your side, son of Jesse. Peace and prosperity be with you, and success to all who help you, for your God is the one who helps you." So David let them join him, and he made them officers over his troops. the Spirit: Jdg 6:34 Jdg 13:25 Isa 59:17 came upon Amasai: Heb. clothed Amasai, 1Ch 2:17 2Sa 17:25 19:13 20:4-8, Amasa, Thine are we. 2Ki 10:5, and on they side, Ru 1:16 2Sa 15:21 2Ki 9:32 Mt 12:30 peace: Ga 6:16 Eph 6:23,24 thy God: 1Sa 25:28,29 2Sa 5:2 Zec 8:23 Joh 6:67,68 captains of the band: 1Sa 8:12 22:7 1Ki 9:22 Related Passages: Judges 6:34 So the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon; and he blew a trumpet, and the Abiezrites were called together to follow him. Judges 13:25 (SAMSON) And the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him in Mahaneh-dan, between Zorah and Eshtaol. Isaiah 59:17 He put on righteousness like a breastplate, And a helmet of salvation on His head; And He put on garments of vengeance for clothing And wrapped Himself with zeal as a mantle. AMASAI'S SUPERNATURAL CLOTHING Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, who was the chief of the thirty, and he said, "We are yours, O David, And with you, O son of Jesse! Peace (shalom; Lxx - eirene), peace (shalom; Lxx - eirene) to you, And peace (shalom; Lxx - eirene) to him who helps (azar; Lxx - boethos,) you; Indeed, your God helps (azar; Lxx - boetheo) you ( See 1 Chr. 11:9,14.)!" Then David received (qabal - accepted; Lxx - prosdechomai - welcomed) them and made them captains of the band. (lit., the Spirit clothed Himself with Amasai) Clothing of Amasai with the Spirit reminds one of Paul's call in (Ro 13:14) where same Greek verb (enduo) is used. "But put on (aorist imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision (present imperative with a negative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) for the flesh in regard to its lusts." Whatever the sons of Benjamin knew about David, they knew that God helped David. See passages below from 2 Samuel 8 the chapter that describes God's helping David conquering Israel's enemies on W (Philistines), E (Moab), N (Arameans), S (Edomites). This made them want to follow him. 2 Sa 8:6+ Then David put garrisons among the Arameans of Damascus, and the Arameans became servants to David, bringing tribute. And the LORD helped (yasha; Lxx = sozo) David wherever he went 2 Sa 8:14+ And he put garrisons in Edom. In all Edom he put garrisons, and all the Edomites became servants to David. And the LORD helped (yasha; Lxx = sozo) David wherever he went. The word shalom is used in 1 Chr. 12:17 and three times in 1Ch 12:18. Matthew Poole on God helps you - “We have observed God’s singular and gracious care of thee, and kindness to thee, and if we should oppose thee, we should be fighters against God and his word and providence.” ESV Study Bible - The Spirit clothed is the Chronicler’s characteristic idiom for prophetic inspiration (2 Chron. 15:1; 20:14; 24:20; see Jdg. 6:34). David united the fractious tribes around his kingship, but that unity was shattered by his intemperate grandson Rehoboam. The northern tribes rejected Rehoboam’s rule in words that ironically echoed Amasai’s declaration of support: “What portion have we in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse” (2 Chron. 10:16). (borrow ESV Study Bible) The Jewish Study Bible has an interesting comment about this verse. "This reflects Chronicles' innovative view on prophets and prophecy. Whereas many biblical books view prophecy as the exclusive prerogative of "professional" prophets whose activity centers on the monarchy, Chronicles maintains that any individual, even a non-Israelite, may, under the proper circumstances, serve as a conduit for conveying the divine will; hence, Amasai, a military man, experiences ad hoc prophecy. The possession formulae (the spirit seized) introduce the speeches of "non-prophets" only, indicating that Chronicles differentiates between this group and "professional" prophets." Guzik on Spirit came upon Amasai - Literally, this “The Spirit clothed Amasai.” This Old Testament phrase is only used in Judges 6:34 and 2 Chronicles 24:20, but it may have been in the mind of Jesus when He promised that His followers would be clothed with power from on high (Luke 24:49+). Ryrie - The Spirit of the LORD came upon many in OT times, as with Othniel (see Jdg 6:34; 11:29; 13:25; 1Sa 10:9-10; 16:13; 1 Chron. 12:18). He was also in some people (Nu 27:18; Dan. 4:8; 6:3; 1 Peter 1:11) and filled some for special service (Ex. 31:3; 35:31). These relationships are characterized by the Lord, as the Spirit, being "with" them, in contrast to His permanent indwelling of all believers from the Day of Pentecost on (John 14:17). (Borrow Ryrie Study Bible) See SPECIAL TOPIC: SPIRIT IN THE BIBLE Bob
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Guzik - Some think that the Levites were prohibited from going to war, but this is not specifically stated. Numbers 1:47-53 says that in that census they were not to be counted among the other tribes when the men ready for war were numbered, but it does not say that they could never fight for Israel. Selman - The Levites were never prohibited from engaging in the military activity, despite their religious duties.” Related Resources: Who was Levi in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the tribe of Levi / the Levites? | GotQuestions.org What was the Levitical priesthood? | GotQuestions.org 1 Chronicles 12:27 Now Jehoiada was the leader of the house of Aaron, and with him were 3,700, the leader: 1Ch 9:20 2Ki 11:4,9 25:18 Aaronites: 1Ch 6:49-57 27:17 Now Jehoiada was the leader of the house of Aaron, and with him were 3,700, Related Resource: Who was Aaron in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org 1 Chronicles 12:28 also Zadok, a young man mighty of valor, and of his father's house twenty-two captains. Zadok: 1Ch 6:8,53 2Sa 8:17 1Ki 1:8 2:35 Eze 44:15 also Zadok, a young man (gibbor; Lxx - dunatos)(see discussion above) of valor (chayil; Lxx - ischus), and of his father's house twenty-two captains - Note this is not Zadok the high priest under David and then under Solomon.