Period - The books of Chronicles were written quite evidently soon after the Babylonian captivity, as specific reference is made to the prophet Jeremiah and to the restoration by Cyrus. They are distinguished from the two books of Kings in a fuller history of Judah and in the omission of many details. The chronological tables begin with Adam and continue down to the return of the Jews to Palestine after the Babylonian Exile.

Purpose - The purpose of the Chronicles is distinctly religious. Special stress is laid on the genealogies, rank, and order of the priests and Levites, and upon the perpetuation and continuity of the Davidic dynasty to the time of Israel's restoration. These books, therefore, have significant value in the Messianic lineage from the tribe of Judah through the house of David. Emphasis is also placed on the care God manifested toward his chosen people, with conspicuous consideration for the kings who faithfully served Jehovah and overthrew idolatry. Prominence is given to the priestly spirit instead of the prophetic element.

Outline - A simple analysis of First Chronicles may be shown as follows: I. Official Genealogies (1:1-9:44) II. From the Death of Saul to the Accession of David (10:1-12:40) III. The Reign of David (13:1-29:30)

Ussher calculates the period covered by First Chronicles, excluding the genealogies (1-9), at 41 years.