Chapter Summary

Joab and David take Rabbah. War with Philistines.

Discussion Questions for 1 Chronicles, Chapter 20

1. “In the spring of the year, when kings normally go out to war” (ESV) opens chapter 20. Why do you think they did not battle in the winter? Were kings always supposed to go out to battle? In the previous chapters of chronicles was David’s presence needed for victories? Why or why not?
2. Who leads the Israelite army in the battle for Rabbah? Where does David remain? What is the significance of the writer of Chronicles sharing David’s location with us, after all Joab was chief and commander (1 Chronicles 11:6)?
3. Compare 2 Samuel 11:1 to 1 Chronicles 20:1. What are the similarities/differences between these two verses? What do we learn about Joab’s leadership as a commander?
4. Read 2 Samuel 11-12. Why do you think the author of Chronicles leaves the story of David and Bathsheba out? What would be the benefit?
5. In verse 2, we read David has made his way out to the battle and victory has been attained. Taking 2 Samuel 11-12 into consideration, do you think this victory was part of David’s restoration from his sin? After God forgives you and restores you, do you struggle to walk in it? What can we learn from David’s example here?
6. In the Old Testament, we often see God tell Israel to not take any spoils of war. In verses 2-3, we see David put the king’s crown on his head and take plunder from the city. Why do you think God allows it?
7. For whom was the book of Chronicles written and what do you think the purpose of writing only about the victories and not the failures would be? Does it encourage you to remember only the positive? What are some ways we can remember the things God has done for us?
8. In verses 4-7, who are the Israelites at war against? What do you think the relevance is for including these stories about defeating giants?
9. Who is Shimea? Read 1 Samuel 16:9, was David chosen for king over him? Could have this caused bitterness in his heart? What is implied that he did in verse 7 if his son is defeating giants? What can we learn from his example to not let bitterness take root in our hearts? How can we be an effective leader that doesn't cause people to be bitter?
10. We can see family lineage in verses 4-7. What is the relevance in sharing the lineage with us in fighting these giants? Is David the only one able to defeat a giant? Are you mentoring the next generation to be successful? What are ways we can help grow the next generation?

Key Words/Phrase

War, v. 4.

Characters

David, Joab, Sibbechai, Sippai, Jonathan, Elhanan.

Strong Verse(s)