Warriors Join David’s Army

I Chronicles 12:1–40
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

Most of the mighty men listed were from David’s own tribe, Judah. There were also many defectors from other tribes. Saul’s injustice had fostered discontent even among his own tribe, the tribe of Benjamin, so that many deserted him, taking refuge with David. These were all expert archers who could shoot arrows or sling stones with either their left or right hand (v. 2). The next group were defectors from Gad (vv. 8-15) who lived on the east side of the Jordan. These men were so dedicated to David’s cause that they crossed the Jordan (v. 15) at flood time (Joshua 3:15). With them came many others from Benjamin and Judah (vv. l6-17). Knowing that God was with David and would help him, they wished to be with him. 

Many brave and experienced soldiers came to Hebron (300,000) to make David king over a once again united monarchy. All the tribes were listed to show that David’s support was broad-based, a point not made in 2 Samuel. Since the Levites were to be exempt from military service (Num. 1:47-50), why are they listed as part of David’s army?  It seems that they were exempt from the draft but strongly supported David and volunteered their services to help install him as king. The people were ready for change. They had suffered much under Saul’s leadership because of his disobedience to God (10:13). They celebrated David’s coronation with three days of joyous feasting and worship. 200 chiefs from the tribe of Issachar “had understanding of the times” (v. 32). Their knowledge and judgement provided the information needed for making important decisions for the nation.

Application

Men were drawn to David by the reputation of his great warriors, the news of the victories and their desires to see God’s will done in making David king. If I am brave, determined, and faithful to God, others will be drawn to work with me.