Welcome back to Bible Gateway’s weekly Look at the Book series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. The books of Chronicles (originally one work) cover the same period as the books of Samuel and Kings, with 1 Chronicles recapping the reigns of Saul, David, and Solomon.
(If you want a deeper dive into this fascinating time period, take a look at our complete guide and chart for every king and prophet in the books of Kings and Chronicles.)
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Written for the exiles who had returned to rebuild Jerusalem under Ezra and Nehemiah. Traces the genealogy and interpreted the history of God’s people.
- Category: History
- Theme: Covenant
- Timeline: Begins with genealogies going back to Adam, but mostly covers the period of roughly 1025-997 BC
- Written: Written around 450-400 BC, traditionally ascribed to Ezra
Key Verse
“Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.” — 1 Chronicles 16:11 (NIV)
Back to Basics
The writer of Chronicles intended to remind the Jews of God’s promises and intentions about:
- The Land
- The nation
- The Davidic king
- The Levitical priests
- The temple
- True worship
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: 1 Chronicles 1-4
- Day 2: 1 Chronicles 5-8
- Day 3: 1 Chronicles 9-13
- Day 4: 1 Chronicles 14-17
- Day 5: 1 Chronicles 18-21
- Day 6: 1 Chronicles 22-25
- Day 7: 1 Chronicles 26-29
Remember
Written to remind the returned exiles of their spiritual heritage during the difficult times they faced, and to encourage them to be faithful to God.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.
