Bible Commentaries
G. Campbell Morgan's Exposition on the Whole Bible
1 Chronicles 23
David's interest in building the Temple and establishing it as the center of worship and of the nation is not only manifest in the material preparation he made in amassing treasure, and carrying out preliminary work in getting the stones ready. He practically abdicated the throne to Solomon, that he might supervise arranging the order of worship. In this chapter the duties of the Levites are set out, and it is declared that this was among David's last acts (verse 1 Chronicles 23:27, margin).
The specific work of the Levites is beautifully described by the chronicler in the closing verses of the chapter. They were the servants of the priest and of the house. They were also to stand at morning and evening to praise the Lord. High and holy calling, this.
The morning hour of praise expressive of confidence in God and gratitude to Him for all His grace and goodness. Then the busy hours of service, all in the power of that early praise. Finally, the hymn of adoration for the guidance and goodness of the day as the shadows of the evening fell.
It was a high national ideal, and the nation which realizes it will be great indeed. Israel sadly failed later in her history, but the purpose was noble. Never was the true kingliness of David more manifest than when in those last days and acts he sought to make arrangements to consolidate around the Throne of God the kingdom he was so soon to leave.
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