Seventh Day Baptist
Christian Education Council
PO BOX 1678
Janesville, WI 53547
—1 Chronicles 17:11-15
by: Linda Harris.
This passage holds double meaning; the prophecy refers both to Solomon and to Jesus Christ. Solomon, David’s successor to the throne, built the temple. Jesus Christ fulfilled the prediction of David’s throne being established forever.
God promised that his love and mercy would rest on David’s offspring (17:13). This applies to both Solomon and Jesus. As joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, we also receive God’s mercy.
Mercy is often defined as not receiving what we deserve. This doesn’t insinuate that God overlooks our sins. The Hebrew word for mercy (chesed) means more than kindness. It implies God’s faithfulness to his covenant and loyalty to his people. His mercy raises us out of our sin and fashions us into the people he wants us to be. We in turn show mercy to others. Can your life be characterized as one of mercy—both of kindness and commitment?