The last words of David, that is, the last words of David on this subject, lessened down the age ten years from the former appointment. Probably this means; that the introduction of younger men for the subordinate service, was now such, that under the eye and teaching of the elders, they might be in longer preparation for the sanctuary. I cannot help remarking that in a gospel church, though such as are intended for the ministry will find their account, when like Timothy, from a child they have known the holy scriptures, which are able to make them wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus; yet the clearest evidences should be seen in their life and conversation that they are truly awakened men, before they go forth to call others. Oh! for such ministers as Jeremiah, concerning whose ordination, the Lord himself gave such precious testimony. Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee, before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Jeremiah 1:5.
1 Chronicles 23:27-32
27 For by the last words of David the Levites were numberedh from twenty years old and above:
28 Because their office was to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the LORD, in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the purifying of all holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God;
29 Both for the shewbread, and for the fine flour for meat offering, and for the unleavened cakes, and for that which is baked in the pan,i and for that which is fried, and for all manner of measure and size;
30 And to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at even;
31 And to offer all burnt sacrifices unto the LORD in the sabbaths, in the new moons, and on the set feasts, by number, according to the order commanded unto them, continually before the LORD:
32 And that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy place, and the charge of the sons of Aaron their brethren, in the service of the house of the LORD.