Faith & Reason Nexus

MEANING: “The Words of the Day”
Chronicles derives its name meaning from “The Words, Accounts, or Events of the Day.”
AUTHORSHIP: The author of Chronicles is unknown, possibly Ezra or a contemporary of Ezra.
TIME WRITTEN: Probably composed between 450 and 430 B.C.
POSITION IN THE BIBLE: 1 Chronicles in the Context of Scripture

• 13th Book in the Bible.
• 13th Book in the Old Testament.
• 8th of 12 books of History (Joshua – Esther).
• Followed by 53 books in the Holy Bible.

1 CHRONICLES: Key Stats

• CHAPTERS: 29
• VERSES: 941
• WORDS: 20,369

OBSERVATIONS ABOUT 1 CHRONICLES: Historical Overview

• In the Hebrew Bible, 1 & 2 Chronicles were a single book.
• Chronicles covers the same period as 2 Samuel through 2 Kings but provides a religious history focusing on the Davidic dynasty from a priestly and spiritual perspective.

Genealogies and Chronological Tables: Chapters 1-9 cover genealogies from Adam to David, offering the most comprehensive chronological tables in the Bible.

Focus on David’s Rule: Chapters 10-29 concentrate on the 33 years of David’s rule over the United Kingdoms of Israel and Judah (1004-971 B.C.).

Addressed to the Remnant from Babylon: The Chronicles are directed to the remnant from Babylon, with Ezra leading some exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem in 457 B.C.

Leadership Roles During Ezra’s Time:

• Ezra: SPIRITUAL leader.
• Nehemiah: POLITICAL leader.
• Malachi: MORAL leader.

Saul’s Reign and David’s Emphasis:

• Only one chapter (10) is dedicated to Saul’s reign.
• Chronicles emphasizes David’s concern for the things of the Lord, including bringing back the Ark of the Covenant and his desire to build a temple for God.

David’s Character and Additional Events:

• Chronicles stress David’s deep spiritual commitment, courage, and integrity.
• Adds events not found in 2 Samuel, including David’s preparations for the temple and the worship service of the Temple.