The First Book of Chronicles

The Book of 1 Chronicles is part of the Old Testament. It tells the story of God’s people, especially the family line of King David. The book begins with long lists of names, called genealogies. These lists show how God’s people came from Adam all the way to the time of King David.

After the lists, the book focuses on David’s life. It talks about how he became king and how he brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The Ark was a holy chest that reminded the people of God’s presence. David wanted to build a house for the Ark, but God said his son would do that instead.

1 Chronicles shows that David loved God and tried to lead the people well. It doesn’t talk about David’s sins like some other books do. Instead, it focuses on his good choices and his plans for worship. It reminds the people to stay faithful and give thanks.

This book was written after the people of Israel returned from being exiled. They were rebuilding their lives and needed to remember where they came from. 1 Chronicles helped them look back so they could move forward. It reminded them that they were still God’s chosen people, with a purpose and a promise.

The Book of 1 Chronicles was written after the people of Judah came back from exile in Babylon. Their homes had been destroyed. The temple was gone. Life was hard, and they needed hope. The writer wanted to remind them of their history and help them trust God again.

We don’t know the name of the author, but many people think it was a priest or someone close to the temple, possibly Ezra. This person knew the law, the worship rules, and the stories of the kings. He wanted the people to remember who they were and how God had helped them before.

1 Chronicles covers many of the same events as 1 and 2 Samuel. But it tells the story in a different way. It skips over some sad or sinful parts of David’s life. It focuses more on worship, the temple, and the promise God made to David’s family.

The writer wanted the people to look back and see God’s faithfulness. He helped them see that their story was not over. Even after exile, they still had a future. 1 Chronicles gave them a way to rebuild not just their homes, but also their faith.

The Book of 1 Chronicles has a special way of telling the story. It starts with long lists of names. These are called genealogies. They may seem boring at first, but they were important to the people. These lists showed who belonged to which family and how they were part of God’s people.

After the lists, the book focuses mostly on King David. But it leaves out many of the troubles and sins found in other books. Instead, it highlights the good things David did. It talks a lot about worship, music, and plans for the temple. The writer cared deeply about how people honored God.

1 Chronicles also repeats some stories from other books. But it tells them in a way that points people toward worship and faithfulness. It reminds them to trust God and follow the right path. It uses simple language and clear messages.

The style of this book is careful and focused. It is not fast-paced. It takes time to show what matters. Names, prayers, and temple plans are all included on purpose. They help the people remember their history and how they should live.

1 Chronicles has many themes that connect with our Catholic faith. These themes help us think about worship, leadership, and the way God works through history.

One big theme is worship. The book talks a lot about how David prepared for the temple. He gathered materials, organized the Levites, and wrote songs. Worship was not just about singing. It was about giving thanks, showing love for God, and doing things the right way. This reminds us how important the Mass is for Catholics. We are called to worship with care and joy.

Another theme is God’s promise to David. God said that David’s family would always have a king. Catholics see this promise fulfilled in Jesus. Jesus is the King from David’s line. He rules not from a throne on earth, but from the cross and in our hearts.

The book also shows the importance of community. The long family lists are not just records. They show that everyone mattered. In our faith today, we are all part of the Body of Christ. We are one family, even if we have different roles.

Lastly, 1 Chronicles teaches us to remember. The people had been through hard times. The book reminded them of their past so they could have hope. Catholics do this too. We remember the saints, the stories of Scripture, and the life of Jesus. These memories keep our faith strong.

The Book of 1 Chronicles has two main parts. Each part focuses on a different thing. The first part tells the family history of God’s people. The second part tells about the life and work of King David.

Here is how the book is divided:

• Chapters 1–9: Genealogies
  These chapters list names and family trees. They start with Adam and go all the way to the families who came back from exile. Chapter 9 ends with the people who lived in Jerusalem after returning.
• Chapters 10–29: The Reign of David
  Chapter 10 tells about the death of King Saul. After that, the rest of the book focuses on David. It talks about how he became king, brought the Ark to Jerusalem, and planned the temple. Chapter 17 is where God makes a promise to David. Chapters 23–27 explain how David organized the Levites, musicians, and other workers. The book ends in chapter 29 with David’s final words and the beginning of Solomon’s rule.

This structure helps us follow the story. It starts with the past, then moves to God’s plan for the future. The book is meant to guide the people as they rebuild and trust again.

At first, 1 Chronicles might seem like an old book with too many names and lists. But it still has meaning for us today. It reminds us that our faith is part of a long story. We are not alone. We are part of something bigger.

The book shows the value of worship. David made careful plans for the temple. He taught the people how to sing, pray, and give thanks. In the Church, we do the same. The Mass, the sacraments, and our prayers help us stay close to God, just like worship did for the people in David’s time.

1 Chronicles also reminds us to be faithful in hard times. The people had gone through exile. They were trying to start again. This book gave them hope. It reminded them that God was still with them. We can read it today when we feel lost or tired and remember that God does not forget His people.

The stories in 1 Chronicles point us to Jesus. David’s line led to Christ. The work of the temple points to the work of the Church. The names in the lists remind us that every person matters. This book calls us to worship, to serve, and to remember who we are.

The Book of 1 Chronicles is not use very often in the Roman Catholic lectionary. It does not appear much in the readings we hear at daily or Sunday Mass. Most of the book is made up of names, lists, and temple plans. These parts are important but not usually chosen for public reading.

One verse that is included in the lectionary is 1 Chronicles 29:10-13. This is a prayer of praise from King David. It is sometimes used during weekday Masses. In this prayer, David blesses God and gives thanks. He reminds the people that everything they have comes from God.

Parts of 1 Chronicles also show up in the Liturgy of the Hours. This is the Church’s daily prayer, often prayed by priests, religious, and others. Some prayers and psalms from Chronicles are used to give praise and thanks.

Even though we do not hear 1 Chronicles often at Mass, it still matters. It helps us understand the history behind the Psalms and the temple. It shows the roots of our worship. When we read it on our own, we can see how God’s people praised Him and stayed faithful.

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

A Joyful Procession of Praise

In 1 Chronicles 15:3-4, 15-16; 16:1-2, David gathers all Israel to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The priests carry the Ark with care, just as God commanded. David assigns musicians to play and sing with joy as they march. It is a time of celebration and worship.

When the Ark arrives, David offers sacrifices and blesses the people. He gives them food and leads them in giving thanks. This joyful moment shows the importance of honoring God with both care and joy. On the feast of the Assumption, we also celebrate with joy, trusting that Mary, the Ark of the New Covenant, is with God in heaven.

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At the weekday Masses it is used as a responsorial psalm:

• Thursday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time II – 1 Chronicles 29:10, 11ab, 11d-12a, 12bcd: God’s Eternal Sovereignty
• Friday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time I – 1 Chronicles 29:10bcd, 11abc, 11d-12a, 12bcd: Praise to Our Mighty God

A Story Full of Names and Purpose

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces 1 Chronicles chapter 1. He explains that this book is focused on the temple, worship, and the hope for a future Messiah. It highlights King David as a model of what the Messiah will be like.

Fr. Mike points out that 1 Chronicles does not talk about David’s sins. Instead, it focuses on his strengths. This isn’t to hide anything, but to help show what kind of leader the Messiah will be.

He notes that chapter 1 is full of names. Even though God is not mentioned in this chapter, Fr. Mike reminds us that God is still behind every person listed. These names matter because of what God did through them.

He adds that sometimes God feels hidden in our lives too. But just like in 1 Chronicles, God is still there, still working. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to trust that God is present, even when we can’t see Him.

Names That Lead to Jesus

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 2. He says the list of names might feel long and tiring, but each one matters. These names show the family lines of Israel and Judah.

Fr. Mike points out that this chapter includes the family tree leading to King David. He highlights names like Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David. He explains that this same order appears in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel.

He reminds us that each name represents more than just one person. It shows a family, a history, and a promise. These names connect God’s people through time and lead to Jesus, the promised one.

Names with Meaning and Connection

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz highlights the connection between 2 Samuel 3 and 1 Chronicles 3. Both list David’s children. These names are important because many of them show up again in future stories, including the story of Solomon and the kings who followed him.

He reminds us that even though these names might feel hard to follow, they are part of a bigger story. These are the people who will shape the future of Israel. Some will be kings, and many will have major roles later.

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to be patient. Even if we don’t know all the names, God does. These names help us see that Scripture is rooted in real people, and each person had a role in God’s plan.

A Kingdom and a Temple to Remember

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapters 5 and 6. He explains that Chronicles highlights two important family lines: the royal line of David and the priestly line of Levi.

Fr. Mike says these chapters were likely written after the exile. The people had been scattered, and the temple was gone. The writer of Chronicles wanted to remind them that God’s plan was still moving forward through these key families.

He points out that the names listed are not just a history lesson. They show the people’s hope. There was hope for a new kingdom, and also for the return of true worship in the temple. Even when things look broken, God is still working. These names help show that God didn’t forget his people, and he still had a plan for them.

Counting the Warriors and the Families

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reads 1 Chronicles chapters 7 and 8. These chapters focus on the tribes of Israel, especially Issachar, Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher.

Fr. Mike points out that many of the men listed were strong warriors. Their names are written down because they were ready for battle and played an important role in their families and tribes.

A New Start After the Exile

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on 1 Chronicles chapter 9. He explains that this chapter marks a turning point. The people have returned from exile in Babylon.

Fr. Mike says this chapter shows who came back to live in Jerusalem. It lists the priests, Levites, and temple workers. These people were getting ready to rebuild their lives and worship again.

He points out one key line in the chapter. It says Judah went into exile because of unfaithfulness. Fr. Mike says this shows the reason for the exile. Ezra, who likely wrote 1 Chronicles, wants the people to stay faithful now.

Fr. Mike explains that 1 Chronicles tells the story with a different focus than the books of Samuel and Kings. It was written after the exile to give hope and guidance for a new beginning.

Ezra’s Vision and David’s Mighty Men

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapters 10 and 11. He says these chapters retell the story of Saul’s death and David’s rise, which we already heard in 2 Samuel. But this time, it’s told with a purpose.

Fr. Mike explains that 1 Chronicles was written later, likely by Ezra, after the exile. Ezra wanted to remind the people of their past and give them hope for a strong future. He focused on God’s plan to rebuild the kingdom and restore worship.

Fr. Mike points out how Ezra highlights David’s mighty men. These warriors supported David and helped make him king. One of them was Uriah the Hittite, who will play a sad role later in the story.

He reminds us that Ezra isn’t just repeating history. He’s helping people see how they can live now and trust in God’s plan ahead. These stories are meant to guide and inspire.

Brave and Wise Warriors of Israel

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 12. He explains that this chapter gives us a big picture of David’s army when he became king.

Fr. Mike says the men who joined David were strong and brave. Some could use weapons with both hands. But he also points out something deeper. These men were wise. They understood the times. They knew when to stay loyal to Saul and when to support David.

He highlights the tribe of Issachar. These men were not only warriors, but they also had understanding. They knew what Israel needed to do. Fr. Mike says that kind of wisdom is a great gift.

He also notes their singleness of purpose. They were focused and ready to serve. Fr. Mike says they were faithful, skilled, and united. That helped David build a strong kingdom.

The Ark, a New Cart, and a Costly Mistake

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 13. He explains that David wanted to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem so God’s presence would be at the center of worship.

Fr. Mike points out that they used a new cart to carry the ark, which sounds respectful. But it was not how God had commanded it to be moved. Only Levites were supposed to carry it, and it was never meant to be touched.

He talks about Uzzah reaching out to steady the ark. When he touched it, he died. Fr. Mike reminds us this was a serious moment. Even with good intentions, disobedience matters.

He ends by saying God still wants us to live in his presence. But we should also remember who God is and follow his ways. God is near, even in ordinary places. We are invited to be aware of that every day.

David Does It Right This Time

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how David gets things right in 1 Chronicles chapters 14 and 15.

Fr. Mike points out that David now listens to God and follows His commands. When David faces the Philistines, he asks God for guidance before acting. He obeys, and God gives him victory. David does not rush ahead or rely on himself.

In chapter 15, Fr. Mike highlights how David learns from his past mistake. This time, when bringing the ark to Jerusalem, he tells the Levites to carry it just as God commanded. He doesn’t use a cart like before. The people are joyful, and the ark is moved with care and praise.

Fr. Mike says this shows us how David is growing. He is learning to honor God’s ways, not just his own ideas.

Worship, Thanks, and Turning Back to God

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Chronicles chapter 16. He explains how David sets up worship around the ark, which is now placed in a tent. David appoints Levites to lead the people in prayer.

Fr. Mike highlights three parts of their prayer: to call on God, to thank Him, and to praise Him. He says these are simple and good ways to pray. He encourages listeners to include these in their own prayer lives.

He also mentions a fourth part of prayer—repentance. He connects this to Psalm 51, showing how turning back to God is important too.

Fr. Mike reminds us that 1 Chronicles focuses on temple worship and the kingdom. He says Ezra, who likely wrote it, wanted people to remember how to worship and live as God’s people.

God Builds the House

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 17. He says this is the moment when David wants to build a house for God. But God tells David no. Instead, God says He will build a house for David.

Fr. Mike reminds us that this is not about a building. It’s about a family and a kingdom. God promises that David’s son will have a throne that lasts forever.

He also points out that David prays with thanks. David remembers how God took him from the fields and made him king. He feels blessed and amazed.

Fr. Mike says this chapter is important. It shows that God has a plan for David’s family. That plan will lead to Jesus.

Victory and Justice

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz gives a short comment on 1 Chronicles chapter 18. He says this chapter shows how David’s kingdom was strong. God gave him victory in battle wherever he went.

Fr. Mike also notes that David ruled with justice. He was not only a warrior king but also cared about fairness for his people.

A Flashback to David’s Battles

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares a quick note on 1 Chronicles chapters 19 and 20. He says these chapters give us a flashback to David’s military victories.

Fr. Mike explains that 1 Chronicles does not tell the full story about David staying home during the battle. It only shows the victories. This is because the book focuses on God’s plan to restore the kingdom, the people, and worship.

He reminds us that 1 Chronicles highlights David as a strong leader, even if it leaves out some of the troubling parts of his life.

David’s Census and a Warning About Pride

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles 21. He explains that this chapter skips over many parts of David’s life, like his sin with Bathsheba and the rebellion of Absalom. That’s because 1 Chronicles tells a different story. It focuses on the line of the Messiah and the worship of God.

Fr. Mike explains why taking the census was wrong. David wanted to count the people, but not in the way God had done in the book of Numbers. In Numbers, the census showed how God saved and protected the people. But in 1 Chronicles 21, David is counting them as if they are his own, not God’s.

The problem was David’s pride. He was acting like the people belonged to him. Fr. Mike says leaders should take care of God’s people, not claim them. This act brought punishment because David forgot to honor God’s role. Fr. Mike says we’ll hear more about this later in 2 Samuel.

The Temple Begins with David’s Plans

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how 1 Chronicles 22 shows a turning point. David chooses the spot for the temple. It will be built on the threshing floor he bought from Ornan. Fr. Mike reminds us that David insisted on paying for it. He didn’t want to give God something that cost him nothing.

Fr. Mike explains that this becomes the one place where sacrifice will be offered. Worship will no longer happen all over the land. From now on, worship is centered in the temple at Jerusalem. This is where God will be honored.

David can’t build the temple himself. God told him he had shed too much blood. But David gets everything ready. He gathers workers and materials. Then he tells Solomon to finish the job. Fr. Mike says David wanted to give his best for God, and we should too.

He ends by reminding us that we are now temples of the Holy Spirit. We should live in a way that honors God’s presence in us.

Preparing for the Temple

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 23. He explains that David is getting things ready for the temple. David organizes the Levites and changes how they serve.

Fr. Mike says the age for service is lowered from 30 to 20 because the temple will need more workers. The Levites used to take care of the tent. Now they will work in a permanent temple.

He also explains the different jobs of the Levite families—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. They are not priests, but they help with worship and care for the temple.

Fr. Mike says this shows how worship is changing. God’s people are getting ready for a new way to serve in one place—Jerusalem.

Priests, Levites, and the Line of David

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares why 1 Chronicles 24 matters. He explains that the chapter is focused on organizing the priests and Levites. This connects to God’s promise of lasting worship in Israel.

Fr. Mike reminds us that Chronicles began with long lists of names to show the importance of both the tribe of Judah and the tribe of Levi. Judah connects to King David. Levi connects to the priests. Both are part of God’s plan.

He points out that David is not a priest, even though he wears an ephod and takes part in worship. Fr. Mike says this makes David a symbol of Jesus, who is a priest not from Levi, but in the order of Melchizedek.

This chapter helps us see how worship was structured and how God prepared his people for the temple.

Singing for the Lord

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 25. He explains how David sets apart temple musicians for special work.

Fr. Mike says these musicians were sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun. They were chosen to praise God through music. They used lyres, harps, and cymbals. Their songs were a way to speak God’s truth.

He points out that they were called to prophesy through their music. It wasn’t just entertainment. It was worship.

Fr. Mike also notes a fun connection: Psalm 39, read in this episode, is linked to Jeduthun. That shows how the Psalms and temple worship go together.

More Than Just a Doorman

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 26. He explains how the gatekeepers had an important role at the temple.

Fr. Mike says these men were like strong guards. They were not just doormen. They protected the temple and helped keep order. Later in 2 Chronicles, these men will be needed in big moments.

He also shares how being a doorkeeper is not a small job. Psalm 84 says it’s better to be a doorkeeper in God’s house than live in sin. Fr. Mike talks about Blessed Solanus Casey, a porter who simply answered the door. Even that kind of work can be holy.

Fr. Mike explains that some Levites in this chapter had other duties. They cared for temple money and treasures. They helped manage what was given after battles. He says all jobs, big or small, can be holy if done for the Lord.

David’s Wrap-Up Crew

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Chronicles chapter 27. He says it’s part of the wrap-up of King David’s life.

Fr. Mike explains that this chapter shows the military and leadership structure during David’s reign. It lists the men who served month by month, each group having 24,000 soldiers. Fr. Mike points out that it shows David had order and planning in his kingdom.

He also mentions how David chose leaders for each tribe and stewards for his property. Fr. Mike says this list reminds us that running a kingdom took many people. It wasn’t just about David.

Fr. Mike reflects that these lists may seem boring, but they show how many helped carry out God’s work. Even behind-the-scenes jobs matter.

David’s Final Words to Solomon

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Chronicles chapter 28. He explains that David is giving Solomon the task of building the temple.

Fr. Mike says David reminds Solomon to serve God with a whole heart and a willing mind. He points out that Solomon will begin strong but won’t finish well. The writer of Chronicles knows this. So David’s words feel like a warning too.

Fr. Mike also talks about how David gives Solomon the plans for the temple. He encourages his son to be strong and not afraid because God will be with him.

Fr. Mike ends by saying this chapter teaches us to give what we have to give. Just like David gave Solomon encouragement and plans, we are called to offer what we can today.

Giving with a Whole Heart

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Chronicles 29. He talks about how David gives freely and with joy to prepare for the building of the temple.

Fr. Mike points out that David gives not just from the nation’s wealth, but from his own treasures. He does it with a whole heart. Then the people follow David’s lead. They give joyfully and without holding back.

Fr. Mike reminds us that God loves when we give with joy. Giving from a whole heart brings joy to God and to us too. He says this kind of giving isn’t easy, but with God’s help, it’s possible.

He encourages us to ask God for grace. Grace to love with a full heart. To serve with a full heart. And to give not just from what’s extra, but even from what we need.

The Bible

If you want to understand more about the Bible, see our page on the Bible. It gives a simple look at what the Bible is and how Catholics read it. It can help you feel more comfortable opening your Bible and reading it on your own.

You can check out Understanding the Bible to get started. It’s a great place to begin if you have questions or want to grow in your faith.

Why does 1 Chronicles have so many names?

The lists of names are called genealogies. They were important to show the history of God’s people. These lists helped people know where they came from and how they were part of God’s plan.

Is 1 Chronicles the same as 1 Samuel or 2 Samuel?

No, but it tells some of the same stories. 1 Chronicles covers many of the same events as 1 and 2 Samuel, especially about King David. But it leaves out some parts and focuses more on worship and the temple.

Who wrote 1 Chronicles?

We don’t know the author’s name. Many think it was a priest or someone who worked in the temple. He cared about worship, history, and helping the people remember God.

Why is 1 Chronicles important for Catholics?

It shows how worship matters and reminds us of God’s promise to David. That promise leads to Jesus, who is the King in David’s line.

Do we hear 1 Chronicles at Mass?

Not often. One part of David’s prayer is sometimes read at daily Mass. But the book still helps us understand the history behind other parts of the Bible.

The Book of 1 Chronicles starts with a long list of names. These names may seem hard to read, but they were important. They showed how God’s people were connected from the time of Adam all the way to the return from exile. These family lines reminded the people that they were still part of God’s plan.

The rest of the book focuses on King David. It tells how he became king, brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, and made plans for the temple. It does not mention his sins. Instead, it highlights his love for worship and his care for the people. David wanted everything to be ready for his son Solomon to build the temple.

The writer wanted the people to remember their past. He wanted them to rebuild their faith and their trust in God. This book helped the people see that they still had a purpose. It also pointed forward to Jesus, who came from David’s family and now reigns as our King.

1 Chronicles matters to Catholics because it shows the roots of worship and the promise that led to Christ. It reminds us that we are part of a bigger story. We are called to remember, to worship, and to trust.

Have you ever read 1 Chronicles? It may seem hard at first, but it has a lot to say about worship, trust, and hope. It shows how the people stayed faithful even after hard times.

Take some time to read through it, even just a little at a time. Think about what stands out to you. Then leave a comment and share your thoughts. What did you learn? What part of the story speaks to you?