King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 16:28 Mean?

1 Chronicles 16:28 in the King James Version says “Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.”

1 Chronicles 16:28 · KJV

Strength

Context

26

For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.

27

Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place.

28

Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.

29

Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.

30

Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved.

Read 1 Chronicles 16 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Ark arrives in Jerusalem - psalms of thanksgiving. The Hebrew term תּוֹדָה (todah) - thanksgiving is theologically significant here, pointing to Grateful worship as covenant response. The Chronicler's narrative, while paralleling Samuel-Kings in places, offers a distinct theological perspective emphasizing temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Chronicles presents David not primarily as warrior-king but as worship organizer and temple planner. This verse contributes to that portrait by highlighting the spiritual dimensions of Israel's national life. The text demonstrates that true prosperity comes through proper worship and covenant obedience rather than merely military or political success.

Doctrinally, this passage teaches about Grateful worship as covenant response. Cross-references throughout Chronicles connect David's reign to the broader redemptive narrative, showing how God's covenant promises advance through faithful human leadership while ultimately depending on divine grace and power. The messianic implications are profound: Eucharist (thanksgiving) in Christ's new covenant.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Background: This section describes events from David's reign (c. 1010-970 BCE) but was written centuries later during the Persian period (c. 450-400 BCE). The Chronicler's selectivity in retelling David's story serves his theological purposes—he omits David's sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) while emphasizing David's worship reforms and temple preparations.

The historical setting of Ark arrives in Jerusalem - psalms of thanksgiving occurred during Israel's united monarchy, when the nation reached its territorial and political zenith. Archaeological evidence from this period shows significant building projects and administrative development. However, the Chronicler writes for a much smaller, struggling post-exilic community, using David's golden age to inspire hope for restoration.

Ancient Near Eastern parallels show that temple construction and royal sponsorship of worship were common across cultures. However, Israel's understanding of worship centered on covenant relationship with the one true God rather than manipulation of capricious deities. This theological distinctiveness shapes the Chronicler's presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse's emphasis on Grateful worship as covenant response challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Eucharist (thanksgiving) in Christ's new covenant teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
  3. In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
הָב֥וּ1 of 8

“Give”

H3051

to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come

לַֽיהוָ֖ה2 of 8

“unto the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מִשְׁפְּח֣וֹת3 of 8

“ye kindreds”

H4940

a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people

עַמִּ֔ים4 of 8

“of the people”

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

הָב֥וּ5 of 8

“Give”

H3051

to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come

לַֽיהוָ֖ה6 of 8

“unto the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כָּב֥וֹד7 of 8

“glory”

H3519

properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness

וָעֹֽז׃8 of 8

“and strength”

H5797

strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 16:28 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 16:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Corinthians 15:10Philippians 4:13Psalms 100:1-22 Corinthians 12:9-10Ephesians 1:17-19Psalms 29:1-2

Test Your Knowledge

1 Chronicles 16 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Chronicles Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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