1 Chronicles 11:1-47
Q.1. Why was David anointed as king over Israel? What key elements does this reveal about true leadership? – (1 Chr.11:1-3)
The people recognized the excellent qualities of leadership and courage displayed by David from the beginning (1 Chr.11:1-2). Even more telling was their recognition that he had been identified by Samuel and promised the kingship by God (1 Chr.11:2). True leadership must combine both these elements – a call of God and acknowledgement of leadership by the people. David took his leadership seriously. He and made a covenant to serve the people faithfully (1 Chr.11:3).
Q.2. How did Mount Zion become David’s capital city? What was the reward for the conqueror? Why did David’s reign prosper? – (1 Chr.11:4-9)
Mount Zion in Jerusalem was a Jebusite stronghold (1 Chr.11:4). It was an impregnable fortress. David promised that whoever started the defeat of the Jebusites would earn the role as his chief commander. Joab was that man (1 Chr.11:5-6). The chapter goes on to honour his outstanding army. However, that was not the main reason for David’s success. The Bible records –David became greater and greater, for the Lord of hosts was with him ((1 Chr.11:9). That is the way to succeed in life.
Q.3. What qualities were displayed by David’s chief soldiers? – (1 Chr.11:10-14)
The remainder of the chapter acknowledged the amazing feats of David’s mighty men (1 Chron.11:10). Jashobeam killed three hundred in a single battle with his spear (1 Chr.11:11); Eleazar took his stand with David when the rest of the army had fled before the Philistines – and the Lord saved them by a great victory (1 Chr.11:14). Any ministry is blessed when God raises up people with a huge capacity to advance the glory of Christ’s name.
Q.4. Why did David’s men love David so much? What does the comprehensive list of soldiers tell us about David’s leadership style? – (1 Chr.11:15-47)
This incident that is recorded gives us an insight into the devotion of David’s army. They would do anything for him, even at the risk of their own lives (1 Chr.11:19 c.f. Phil.2:30). We discover the reason that this was so. When his men overheard his yearning for a drink from the well of Bethlehem and brought him this water, David refused to drink it because he did not consider himself worthy of such a sacrifice (1 Chr.11:15-18). David knew and valued all his army. He was the consummate team leader (1 Chr.11:19). His greatness was in his ability to inspire confidence in his team (1 Chr.11:20-47). He did not see himself as superior – Jesus modelled, not an ‘above’ or ‘over you’ style, but an ‘AMONG YOU’ kind of leadership (c.f. Lk.22:24-27).