Matthew Henry’s Modern English Commentary1 Chronicles 29

Presents for the TempleThis section describes how King David encouraged the leaders and people of Israel to give generously for the building of the temple. David spoke kindly to the people, explaining that the work was very important and should be supported by everyone. He reminded them that the temple was not for any man, but for the Lord

v. 6: The leaders and people responded to David’s words by giving willingly for the temple (1 Chronicles 29:6 ). Their gifts were not forced, but offered from a perfect heart, with true respect for God’s glory (1 Chronicles 29:9 ). The amount given was very large, showing their generosity and their joy in supporting God’s work (1 Chronicles 29:7-8 ).

v. 9: The people rejoiced because they were happy to honor God with their wealth and to see the temple work moving forward. The common people were glad to see their leaders giving so freely, and David himself rejoiced greatly. He was encouraged to know that the people and his son Solomon were united in serving God. For those who love God, it is a great comfort to see others zealous for His house. As the Bible says, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace (Luke 2:29 ).

David’s Prayer to God; Sacrifices OfferedThis section describes King David’s public prayer of praise and thanks to God after the people gave generously for the temple. David speaks humbly, giving all the glory to God, and prays that the people and Solomon will remain faithful. After his prayer, the people join him in worship, offer sacrifices, and celebrate with joy. This moment shows the importance of thanksgiving, humility, and unity in serving the Lord

v. 11: David praised God for His greatness, power, glory, victory, and majesty (1 Chronicles 29:11 ). He said that everything in heaven and earth belongs to God. All kings and people are under His rule, and all honor and riches come from Him. David wanted the people to remember that their generosity was only possible because God had blessed them first.

v. 13: David thanked God for giving the people the ability and willingness to give. He knew that it was God’s grace that made them so generous. We should always thank God for every good thing we do, because He is the one who gives us the strength and will to do it (Psalm 110:3 ).

v. 14: David spoke humbly about himself and the people. He asked, Who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly?(1 Chronicles 29:14 ). He remembered that life is short, like a shadow, and that everything they gave was actually from God in the first place (1 Chronicles 29:15-16 ). This teaches us not to be proud of our giving, because all we have comes from God.

v. 17: David was glad that God looks at the heart and is pleased with sincerity. He was happy that both he and the people gave freely and honestly.

v. 18: David prayed that the people would stay faithful and keep their hearts set on God and His house. He asked God to keep their good intentions strong, even after David was gone .

v. 19: David prayed for Solomon, asking God to give him a perfect heart to obey God’s commands and to build the temple with the right attitude. David knew that true success comes from serving God with a sincere heart.

v. 20: After David’s prayer, he invited the people to join him in blessing the Lord

v. 21: The next day, the people offered many sacrifices to God—both burnt offerings and peace offerings . This showed their thankfulness and their desire to honor God for all His blessings.

v. 22: The people celebrated and rejoiced before God. They feasted on the offerings, which was a sign that God would continue to bless them even after they had given so much. They made Solomon king a second time to confirm him as David’s chosen successor, and Zadok was anointed as priest. Israel was truly blessed to have such leaders who honored God.

Solomon MagnifiedThis section marks the transition of leadership from King David to his son Solomon. Solomon ascended to the throne with honor and divine blessing, while David finished his life full of days, riches, and honor. It reminds us that every generation has its time and purpose. Solomon's reign began with peace and unity among the people, while David’s life concluded with the legacy of a faithful servant of God.v. 23: Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord

v. 25: The Lord

v. 26-27: The historian reflects on David’s reign, noting that he ruled for forty years—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 29:26-27 ). Like others before him, such as Moses and Samuel, David’s forty-year reign was a time of significant accomplishments and challenges. His reign left a lasting impact on Israel's history.

v. 28: David died full of days, riches, and honor. He lived to an old age, was very wealthy, and was highly respected by both God and man. Despite living a dangerous life as a soldier, David was preserved by God and died in peace. He recognized that life on earth is short, like a shadow, but he was ready to leave this world, trusting that God would receive him in eternity (Psalm 49:15; Psalm 23:4 ).

v. 29-30: For a fuller account of David’s life and reign, the historian refers to the records written by Samuel, Nathan, and Gad (1 Chronicles 29:29-30 ). These detailed the events of David’s government and wars. Although these records are now lost, they remind us of the importance of preserving history to learn from God’s work through His people.