Definition: And Joab answered, The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they [be]: but, my lord the king, [are] they not all my lord’s servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Chronicles 21:3. It's a really complex verse, but we can understand the core idea. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Situation: The Problem: King David was about to die, and his son Joab was tasked with leading the army to defeat Goliath. However, Joab wasn't confident he could win. Joab’s Question: Joab is asking why the king wants this whole thing – this “making of many” – even though the people are not truly his servants. He’s wondering if it’s a strange or unreasonable request from a king. Let's unpack the meaning, word by word: “And Joab answered…” : This is just setting up the question. “…The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they [be]…” : This is where it gets tricky. "Make" here isn’t about a literal physical creation. It means “make” in a figurative sense – to multiply or increase . The idea is that the king wants to make Israel incredibly large and powerful. "...but, my lord the king, [are] they not all my lord’s servants?" : This is the crucial part. Joab is asking: "Are these people truly loyal and obedient to you , my lord? Are they completely dedicated to your service?" He's questioning if they are acting with reverence and obedience. "why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel?" : This is the core of the worry. Joab is asking: "Why do you need this massive increase in people? Why is it so important that these people trespass – disobey you, stray from your path –?” He’s worried about the potential for disobedience and rebellion. Overall Interpretation: Joab isn't saying the king is being unreasonable. He’s expressing concern that the king might be putting too much pressure on his people, creating a situation where they are potentially challenging his authority or disobeying him. He's worried that this "making of many" could lead to problems and instability. In short: Joab is voicing anxiety about the potential for unrest and disobedience stemming from an overly large and powerful population under the king’s control. It highlights a tension between the king's authority and the people's loyalty. --- To help me explain it even better, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand about this passage? (Are you struggling with a specific part of it?) Is there anything in particular that’s confusing you?

Definition: But David could not go before it to inquire of God: for he was afraid because of the sword of the angel of the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important passage from 1 Chronicles 21:30. It's a really significant moment in the story of David and God. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: David was about to do something incredibly risky – he was going to build the Tabernacle, which was a huge, holy building for God to dwell in. He was planning to go into battle and face Goliath, a giant warrior. But, as he was leaving Jerusalem, an angel of God appeared to him. What Happened Next: The angel told David that he couldn't go before the Tabernacle to talk with God about the battle. He was too afraid! It wasn’t just a simple fear; it was a deep, overwhelming terror. What Does It Mean? This verse is really about trust and humility. David was so focused on his own plan – conquering Goliath – that he completely lost sight of God's will. He was prioritizing his own ambition over listening to the guidance of the divine. Fear as a Shield: The angel’s words highlight how fear can be a powerful thing. It can block our ability to hear and understand what God wants us to do. Trusting in God: David was recognizing that he needed to trust in God's plan, even when it seemed scary or overwhelming. It wasn’t about avoiding the danger; it was about listening to God’s guidance. In short, this verse is a reminder that we should always be open to God’s voice and not let our own fear cloud our judgment. Key Takeaway: David's hesitation wasn’t about being weak; it was about recognizing the importance of humility and trusting in God's plan. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Talk a little more about the context of this story?