1 Chronicles 11:2
And moreover in time past, even when Saul was king, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over my people Israel.
1 Chronicles 11:2 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 1 Chronicles highlights the significance of David's role as a leader in Israel's history. It acknowledges that even during the time of King Saul, it was David who led and guided the people of Israel. The verse also references the promise made by the LORD to David that he would be the one to feed and rule over the people of Israel. This divine appointment solidified David's position as a chosen leader by God. It signifies his responsibility to care for and protect the people of Israel, as well as to govern them with righteousness and wisdom. The verse serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in choosing David to be a shepherd and ruler over his people, demonstrating his plan for the nation of Israel through David's leadership.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse highlights God's sovereignty in choosing leaders. The mention of Saul, the first king of Israel, serves as a reminder that God is ultimately in control of who leads his people. The verse also emphasizes the divine calling of leaders, as David is reminded of his role in shepherding God's people. This highlights the biblical theme of shepherd leadership, where the leader is called to guide, protect, and care for the people under their charge. Additionally, the verse reflects on the responsibilities that come with leadership, particularly the duty to provide for and govern the people with righteousness and justice. Through this verse, we see a clear link between God's guidance and the role of human leaders in fulfilling God's purposes for his people.
1 Chronicles 11:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
In times past, even when Saul was king, it was thou that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and Jehovah thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt be shepherd of my people Israel, and thou shalt be prince over my people Israel.
World English Bible
In times past, even when Saul was king, it was you who led out and brought in Israel. Yahweh your God said to you, ‘You shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be prince over my people Israel.’”
Douay-Rheims
Yesterday also, and the day before when Saul was king, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: for the Lord thy God said to thee: Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And in time past, euen when Saul was King, thou leddest Israel out and in: and the Lord thy God sayde vnto thee, Thou shalt feede my people Israel, and thou shalt be captaine ouer my people Israel.