This Bible study series covers the major events of the life of David. This lesson in 2 Chronicles 21 contain outlines, cross-references, Bible study discussion questions, lessons to learn, and applications. Feel free to print them, copy them, or share them. I only ask that you remember these are are personal study notes and are only meant as a supplement to your own study, not a replacement. Visit our inductive Bible study main page for more studies on this and other books of the Bible.
2 Chronicles 21 Inductive Bible Study Notes, Cross References, Outline, and Discussion Questions
Outline:
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David is incited to number the warriors (1-7)
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David chooses three days of plague (8-15)
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David repents before the Lord (16-19)
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David builds an altar (20-30)
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David is incited to number the warriors (1-7)
Discussion Questions
- What do we learn from this passage about Satan? How does he work? What is his goals?
- What is the matter with taking a census of the people? Why might David have been motivated to do this?
- What can we learn about Joab based on his reply to David? What does Joab's response show us about the problem of numbering the people?
- How does the population of Israel compare to after the Exodus? What does this show about God's blessing on His people?
- Why was this command evil in God's sight?
Cross-References
- Exodus 30:12 – When you take a census, each must pay a ransom to the Lord for his life.
- 2 Samuel 24:1 – Parallel story.
- Luke 22:31-32 – Satan wants to sift Peter
- 2 Chronicles 12:7-10 – God refines us.
- Psalms 20:7 – Trust in God rather than horses and chariots.
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David chooses three days of plague (8-15)
Discussion Questions
- When did David first realize what he had done was wrong? Did he realize this himself or did someone tell him first?
- Why did God give him a choice?
- Which one did David choose? What does this show us about David?
- Which one of these choices may you prefer?
Cross-References
- James 2:13 – Mercy triumphs over judgment.
- Deuteronomy 4:31 - The Lord will not leave you or destroy you or forget you.
- Isaiah 30:21 – You will hear a word behind you, “This is the way. Walk in it.”
- Romans 2:15 – Their consciences also bear witness.
- Romans 13:5 – One must be in subjection to avoid God's wrath and for the sake of conscience.
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David repents before the Lord (16-19)
Discussion Questions
- What had David learned through this event? How had David's attitude changed?
- Why would the people of the land be punished for David's sin? Is there any principle we can learn from this?
- What can we do (as parents/teachers/leaders) to try to make sure those under us don't suffer because of our decisions?
Cross-References
- Jeremiah 23:1 – Woe to shepherds who destroy.
- John 10:11 – The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
- James 1:5-6 – If any of you lacks wisdom ask God.
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David builds an altar (20-30)
Discussion Questions
- Why did Araunah's sons hide themselves from the angel? What does this show us about angels?
- What can we learn from these verses about Araunah?
- Why would David not take the threshing floor like he offered? What can we learn from this about sacrifice?
- What can we learn from this passage about prayer? About repentance? About God?
Cross-References
- Hebrews 13:16 – Do good and share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
- Romans 12:1-2 – Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.
- Hosea 6:6 – I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice.
- Proverbs 21:3 – To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.
- Psalm 51:16-17 – The sacrifices of the Lord are a broken and contrite spirit.
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Life of David and Solomon