Offerings for the Temple
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From the very opening of David’s reign one of his most cherished plans had been that of erecting a temple to the Lord. Though he had not been permitted to execute this design, he had manifested no less zeal and earnestness in its behalf.
He had provided an abundance of the most costly material—gold, silver, onyx stones, and stones of divers colors; marble, and the most precious woods.
And now these valuable treasures that he had collected must be committed to others; for other hands must build the house for the ark, the symbol of God’s presence.” David told the assembly he had gathered 3,000 talents of gold and 7,000 talents of refined silver to cover the walls of the temple (1 Chronicles 29:3–5).
Estimating a talent to weigh roughly 75 pounds, he had collected 113 tons of gold and 263 tons of silver! He now challenged the wealthy men of Israel to match his devotion by giving liberally to the cause. After all, this was to be a house for the Lord.
“David had willingly consecrated himself and his service to the Lord, and he could now call upon his people to do likewise. He identified the project of building the Temple with the service of God. By their faithfulness in this matter the people would reveal the extent of their faithfulness to God. Acceptable service to God is willing, cheerful, and immediate service.” “Because of David’s love and devotion to God he was willing to give liberally of his own treasure that the Temple might be built. He had set an example in liberality, and now he could call for liberality.” In answer to David’s request, the chiefs and princes of Israel pledged 5,000 talents and 10,000 drams of gold as well as 10,000 talents of silver, 18,000 talents of brass, and 100,000 talents of iron. “Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD” (v. 9). “A liberal Christian should be a joyous Christian.”
