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David brings up the ark from Kirjath - jearim, ver. 1 - 8.
Uzza being smitten, it is left at the house of Obed - edom, ver. 9 - 14.
2: David said - After this was proposed by the king and accepted by
the people, this great assembly was dismissed, only some of them David
reserved to go with him against Jerusalem, which accordingly he did,
and succeeded in his enterprize. But before this resolution could be
executed, the Philistines came and fought twice with David, as is
related (2Sa 5:17,22), &c. and here (1Ch 14:8), &c. And after
they were repulsed with great loss and shame, David sets upon the
execution of what he had resolved, and in order to it calls another general
assembly of the people. Of the Lord - If this translation of the ark be
pleasing to God. Are left - After the great desolations and destructions
which God for their sins had made among them.
3: For, &c. - The ark was then neglected; and the generality of the
people contented themselves with going to Gibeon and offering sacrifices
there, not caring, though the ark, the soul of the tabernacle, was in
another place. As soon as David had power in his hand, he would use it
for the advancement of religion. It ought to be the first care of those
that are enriched or preferred, to honour God with their honours, and to
serve him and the interests of his kingdom among men, with their wealth
and power.
6: That is - The same city was called by both names.
10: Put his hand, &c. - Let the case of Uzza warn us, to take
heed of presumption or rashness with regard to holy things; and not
to think, that a right intention will justify a wrong action.
11: Perez - uzza - That is, the breach of Uzza. Let David's
displeasure on this occasion caution us, to watch over our spirit,
lest when God reproves us, instead of submitting to God, we quarrel
with him. If God be angry with us, shall we dare to be angry with him?
14: And the Lord blessed, &c - Let this encourage us to welcome God's
ordinance into our houses, believing the ark is a guest no body shall lose
by. Nor let it be the less precious to us, for its being to others a rock
of offence.
