Jewish traditions states that the author of the two books of Chronicles was Ezra. These books were collected and organized by someone who was involved and had direct access to official government historical documents, and Ezra was easily qualified. They resemble the book of Ezra style. They were compiled during the Babylonian captivity, and shortly afterward in the fifth century BC.

Both 1 and 2 Chronicles were originally one book. The cover the same historical period of the books of Samuel and Kings combined. The books of Samuel and Kings record the history of Israel from man's and political perspective. 1 Chronicles records a spiritual perspective from God’s point of view. In other words, Chronicles is the spiritual commentary of the books of Samuel and Kings, much as Deuteronomy was the spiritual commentary on Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, for the upcoming generation entering the Promise Land.

The kings of the northern tribes of Israel are rarely mentioned. 1 Chronicles emphasizes the southern tribe of Judah and the Messianic lineage of Jesus Christ. There are several long genealogies which trace the lineage of Jesus back to David to Adam.

1 Chronicles speaks of the life of David and the increase of his kingdom. It was critical for the people who were starting over to have a solid spiritual foundation of their historical heritage and perspective on what made David great and to see why obedience to God affects the well-being of a nation. In the same way, these books give great lessons for us as we make the same kinds of decisions every day. These stories were real and are examples for our benefit (1 Cor 10:11)