Old Testament
1 Chronicles 21:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
God also sent an angel to destroy Jerusalem. But as the angel was carrying out the destruction, the LORD looked down and repented of the evil. He said to the destroying angel, "Enough! Pull back your hand." At that moment, the angel of the LORD was standing at the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.
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And God sent an angel unto Jerusalem to destroy it: and as he was destroying, the LORD beheld, and he repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed, It is enough, stay now thine hand. And the angel of the LORD stood by the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.
What 1 Chronicles 21:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, God sends an angel to bring destruction upon Jerusalem due to the people's actions. As the angel begins to carry out this task, God sees the devastation and feels compassion. He decides to intervene, telling the angel to stop. This shows God's mercy and willingness to forgive, even when judgment seems necessary. The angel halts at the threshing floor of Ornan, a significant location that symbolizes both destruction and potential redemption. This scene highlights the tension between justice and mercy, illustrating that God is not only just but also deeply caring. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope for change and a chance for mercy. God's response encourages us to reflect on our actions and the impact they have on our lives and those around us. It emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and understanding the power of divine compassion in our lives, reminding us that we are never beyond the reach of grace and love, no matter the circumstances.
How to apply 1 Chronicles 21:15 to your life
When faced with difficult situations, remember that mercy can prevail over judgment. Reflect on your actions and their consequences, and seek forgiveness where needed. Embrace the idea that change is possible, and that compassion can lead to healing and restoration in your life and relationships. Stay open to the grace that surrounds you every day, even in tough times. This can transform your perspective and actions moving forward.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: The Census and the Threshing Floor (1 Chronicles 21:1–22:1)
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David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 21:15 teach about God's mercy?
1 Chronicles 21:15 illustrates God's mercy by showing that even when judgment is warranted, God is willing to intervene and stop destruction out of compassion. This verse highlights the balance between justice and mercy, reminding us that God cares deeply for His people and is always ready to forgive and restore.
Why did God send an angel to destroy Jerusalem?
God sent an angel to destroy Jerusalem as a consequence of the people's actions, specifically their disobedience and sin. This act was meant to serve as a judgment for their wrongdoing, demonstrating that there are serious consequences for turning away from God's ways.
What is the significance of the threshing floor of Ornan?
The threshing floor of Ornan is significant because it represents a pivotal moment of both destruction and potential redemption. It is the location where the angel halted, symbolizing God's mercy and the opportunity for repentance and restoration. This site later becomes important in the building of the temple, further emphasizing its role in God's plan.
How can we apply the lessons from this verse in our lives?
We can apply the lessons from 1 Chronicles 21:15 by reflecting on our actions and their consequences, seeking forgiveness when we err, and being open to God's mercy. It encourages us to embrace compassion in our relationships and to remember that change is always possible, even in difficult situations.
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