Bible Reading Plan

Author: Jon Green

  • 1 Chronicles 10

    1 Chronicles 10

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    Saul Takes His Life

    10 Now the Philistines fought against Israel; the Israelites fled before them, and many fell dead on Mount Gilboa. 2 The Philistines were in hot pursuit of Saul and his sons, and they killed his sons Jonathan, Abinadab and Malki-Shua. 3 The fighting grew fierce around Saul, and when the archers overtook him, they wounded him.

    4 Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run me through, or these uncircumcised fellows will come and abuse me.”

    But his armor-bearer was terrified and would not do it; so Saul took his own sword and fell on it. 5 When the armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he too fell on his sword and died. 6 So Saul and his three sons died, and all his house died together.

    7 When all the Israelites in the valley saw that the army had fled and that Saul and his sons had died, they abandoned their towns and fled. And the Philistines came and occupied them.

    8 The next day, when the Philistines came to strip the dead, they found Saul and his sons fallen on Mount Gilboa. 9 They stripped him and took his head and his armor, and sent messengers throughout the land of the Philistines to proclaim the news among their idols and their people.10 They put his armor in the temple of their gods and hung up his head in the temple of Dagon.

    11 When all the inhabitants of Jabesh Gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul, 12 all their valiant men went and took the bodies of Saul and his sons and brought them to Jabesh. Then they buried their bones under the great tree in Jabesh, and they fasted seven days.

    13 Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, 14 and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse.

    Go Deeper

    After nine chapters of detailed genealogy, the focus turns to the beginnings of the kingdom of Israel. The tragic end of King Saul’s life is revealed as we read of his fear of the Philistines and of his death inflicted by their arrows and his own sword. Amidst the description of the death of Saul and his sons is a summary of Saul’s reign. Ultimately, he was unfaithful to the Lord. This poignant statement will stand in stark contrast to God’s next king, David, described as a man after God’s own heart. Throughout the remaining chapters of Chronicles, the theme of faithfulness versus unfaithfulness will be presented.

    What can we take away from this description of Saul’s end? In a devotional of 1 Chronicles 10, pastor David Platt suggests that the necessity of avoiding Saul’s breach of faith is a strong message for us to consider. Saul disobeyed God’s word and failed to seek Him for guidance resulting in unfaithful actions and weak leadership. The result for Saul was God’s judgment and the kingship turned over to David. Clearly, to avoid breaking faith with God, we are encouraged to obey His commands. Only as we depend on God to enable us to obey and walk with Him continually will we avoid unfaithful steps.

    Saul’s disastrous decision to seek guidance from a medium, rather than the Lord, exposed his pattern to avoid seeking the Lord for direction. This breach of faith led to the tragic end of Saul and his sons. Again, the encouragement for us is clear. God alone is our perfect source of guidance and direction. As followers of Jesus Christ, our first best search for guidance is from our Lord. Our temptation to look elsewhere may not include a medium, but rather a search engine on our phone or computer. How do we resist the distractions that pull us away from seeking God’s wisdom first? Voicing a prayer to ask God for wisdom and direction is a start. May our eyes and heart and mind be fixed on Jesus as we face our daily decisions.

    Questions

    1. How does Saul’s demise prompt you to reflect and reorder your obedience to God’s
    2. Where is your first “go to” source when faced with a decision? Is it God? Google? Your wisest friend?
    3. How might your prayer life change if your initial source for guidance is the Lord instead of all the alternatives exist?

    Pray This

    Heavenly Father,

    Help me to live out the words of Proverbs 3:5-7 and to “trust in You with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding; in all my ways lead me to acknowledge You, confident that You will direct my paths. Keep me from being wise in my own eyes; may I fear You, God and turn away from evil.”

    Amen

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  • 1 Chronicles 9

    1 Chronicles 9

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    9 All Israel was listed in the genealogies recorded in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. They were taken captive to Babylon because of their unfaithfulness.

    The People in Jerusalem

    2 Now the first to resettle on their own property in their own towns were some Israelites, priests, Levites and temple servants.

    3 Those from Judah, from Benjamin, and from Ephraim and Manasseh who lived in Jerusalem were:

    4 Uthai son of Ammihud, the son of Omri, the son of Imri, the son of Bani, a descendant of Perez son of Judah.

    5 Of the Shelanites:

    Asaiah the firstborn and his sons.

    6 Of the Zerahites:

    Jeuel.

    The people from Judah numbered 690.

    7 Of the Benjamites:

    Sallu son of Meshullam, the son of Hodaviah, the son of Hassenuah;

    8 Ibneiah son of Jeroham; Elah son of Uzzi, the son of Mikri; and Meshullam son of Shephatiah, the son of Reuel, the son of Ibnijah.

    9 The people from Benjamin, as listed in their genealogy, numbered 956. All these men were heads of their families.

    10 Of the priests:

    Jedaiah; Jehoiarib; Jakin;

    11 Azariah son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the official in charge of the house of God;

    12 Adaiah son of Jeroham, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malkijah; and Maasai son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer.

    13 The priests, who were heads of families, numbered 1,760. They were able men, responsible for ministering in the house of God.

    14 Of the Levites:

    Shemaiah son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, a Merarite; 15 Bakbakkar, Heresh, Galal and Mattaniah son of Mika, the son of Zikri, the son of Asaph; 16 Obadiah son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun; and Berekiah son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, who lived in the villages of the Netophathites.

    17 The gatekeepers:

    Shallum, Akkub, Talmon, Ahiman and their fellow Levites, Shallum their chief 18 being stationed at the King’s Gate on the east, up to the present time. These were the gatekeepers belonging to the camp of the Levites. 19 Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his fellow gatekeepers from his family (the Korahites) were responsible for guarding the thresholds of the tent just as their ancestors had been responsible for guarding the entrance to the dwelling of the Lord. 20 In earlier times Phinehas son of Eleazar was the official in charge of the gatekeepers, and the Lord was with him.21 Zechariah son of Meshelemiah was the gatekeeper at the entrance to the tent of meeting.

    22 Altogether, those chosen to be gatekeepers at the thresholds numbered 212. They were registered by genealogy in their villages. The gatekeepers had been assigned to their positions of trust by David and Samuel the seer. 23 They and their descendants were in charge of guarding the gates of the house of the Lord—the house called the tent of meeting. 24 The gatekeepers were on the four sides: east, west, north and south. 25 Their fellow Levites in their villages had to come from time to time and share their duties for seven-day periods. 26 But the four principal gatekeepers, who were Levites, were entrusted with the responsibility for the rooms and treasuries in the house of God. 27 They would spend the night stationed around the house of God, because they had to guard it; and they had charge of the key for opening it each morning.

    28 Some of them were in charge of the articles used in the temple service; they counted them when they were brought in and when they were taken out. 29 Others were assigned to take care of the furnishings and all the other articles of the sanctuary, as well as the special flour and wine, and the olive oil, incense and spices. 30 But some of the priests took care of mixing the spices. 31 A Levite named Mattithiah, the firstborn son of Shallum the Korahite, was entrusted with the responsibility for baking the offering bread. 32 Some of the Kohathites, their fellow Levites, were in charge of preparing for every Sabbath the bread set out on the table.

    33 Those who were musicians, heads of Levite families, stayed in the rooms of the temple and were exempt from other duties because they were responsible for the work day and night.

    34 All these were heads of Levite families, chiefs as listed in their genealogy, and they lived in Jerusalem.

    The Genealogy of Saul

    35 Jeiel the father of Gibeon lived in Gibeon.

    His wife’s name was Maakah, 36 and his firstborn son was Abdon, followed by Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab, 37 Gedor, Ahio, Zechariah and Mikloth. 38 Mikloth was the father of Shimeam. They too lived near their relatives in Jerusalem.

    39 Ner was the father of Kish, Kish the father of Saul, and Saul the father of Jonathan, Malki-Shua, Abinadab and Esh-Baal.

    40 The son of Jonathan:

    Merib-Baal, who was the father of Micah.

    41 The sons of Micah:

    Pithon, Melek, Tahrea and Ahaz.

    42 Ahaz was the father of Jadah, Jadah was the father of Alemeth, Azmaveth and Zimri, and Zimri was the father of Moza. 43 Moza was the father of Binea; Rephaiah was his son, Eleasah his son and Azel his son.

    44 Azel had six sons, and these were their names:

    Azrikam, Bokeru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah and Hanan. These were the sons of Azel.

    Go Deeper

    As we near the end of the genealogies in 1 Chronicles, we’re reminded that these lists aren’t just a history book but also a conveyance of the future for the people and tribes coming together to establish Israel again. The Chronicler (historically considered Ezra) ultimately wrote this after the exile to help those returning to Israel to guide the people on how to worship God and walk again in obedience. And although this is a clearly hopeful time, he issues a word of caution at the outset of this chapter, reiterating that the doom of Judah was not a result of warring empires or the geopolitical landscape, but that their exile was a direct result of their unfaithfulness to God.

    Of course, the crux of the human condition is our sinful nature conflicting with the perfect, unchanging nature of God is so well described by Paul in Romans 7:15 (“For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do”) and ultimately serves as the major thematic element throughout the Old Testament.

    And while this chapter can read as dry or even unimportant, especially as compared to the more emotive and narrative books of the New Testament, it reminds us that God knows each one of His creation individually and personally. We can live in confidence in the fact that who we are and what we do is etched on the heart of God. This book is also a reminder that God is faithful to His people and keeps His promises regardless of our own faithfulness to Him. In the following chapters of 1 Chronicles, we will see the fulfillment of God’s promise to David to become king over Israel.

    God cannot tolerate disobedience and must judge us in order to restore our fellowship with Him. When we look at the New Testament, we also find that obedience is also the ultimate desire of Jesus for us. John 15:5-8 says “I am the vine; you are the branches…If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

    Questions

    1. Do the consequences of disobedience ever change the course of your decision making?
    2. How can we see the story of Israel in the perspective of a love story of God’s pursuit rather than our broken, fickle hearts?
    3. In your life, do you feel like your heart is in more of a state of exile with God or more in a state of unity?

    Did You Know?

    After the tribes of people come out of exile and resettle in their land, they are all referred to as Israelites in 1 Chronicles 9 to mark the restoration of God’s people.

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  • 1 Chronicles 8

    1 Chronicles 8

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    The Genealogy of Saul the Benjamite

    8 Benjamin was the father of Bela his firstborn,

    Ashbel the second son, Aharah the third,

    2 Nohah the fourth and Rapha the fifth.

    3 The sons of Bela were:

    Addar, Gera, Abihud, 4 Abishua, Naaman, Ahoah, 5 Gera, Shephuphan and Huram.

    6 These were the descendants of Ehud, who were heads of families of those living in Geba and were deported to Manahath:

    7 Naaman, Ahijah, and Gera, who deported them and who was the father of Uzza and Ahihud.

    8 Sons were born to Shaharaim in Moab after he had divorced his wives Hushim and Baara. 9 By his wife Hodesh he had Jobab, Zibia, Mesha, Malkam, 10 Jeuz, Sakia and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of families. 11 By Hushim he had Abitub and Elpaal.

    12 The sons of Elpaal:

    Eber, Misham, Shemed (who built Ono and Lod with its surrounding villages), 13 and Beriah and Shema, who were heads of families of those living in Aijalon and who drove out the inhabitants of Gath.

    14 Ahio, Shashak, Jeremoth, 15 Zebadiah, Arad, Eder, 16 Michael, Ishpah and Joha were the sons of Beriah.

    17 Zebadiah, Meshullam, Hizki, Heber, 18 Ishmerai, Izliah and Jobab were the sons of Elpaal.

    19 Jakim, Zikri, Zabdi, 20 Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel, 21 Adaiah, Beraiah and Shimrath were the sons of Shimei.

    22 Ishpan, Eber, Eliel, 23 Abdon, Zikri, Hanan, 24 Hananiah, Elam, Anthothijah, 25 Iphdeiah and Penuel were the sons of Shashak.

    26 Shamsherai, Shehariah, Athaliah, 27 Jaareshiah, Elijah and Zikri were the sons of Jeroham.

    28 All these were heads of families, chiefs as listed in their genealogy, and they lived in Jerusalem.

    29 Jeiel the father of Gibeon lived in Gibeon.

    His wife’s name was Maakah, 30 and his firstborn son was Abdon, followed by Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab, 31 Gedor, Ahio, Zeker 32 and Mikloth, who was the father of Shimeah. They too lived near their relatives in Jerusalem.

    33 Ner was the father of Kish, Kish the father of Saul, and Saul the father of Jonathan, Malki-Shua, Abinadab and Esh-Baal.

    34 The son of Jonathan:

    Merib-Baal, who was the father of Micah.

    35 The sons of Micah:

    Pithon, Melek, Tarea and Ahaz.

    36 Ahaz was the father of Jehoaddah, Jehoaddah was the father of Alemeth, Azmaveth and Zimri, and Zimri was the father of Moza.37 Moza was the father of Binea; Raphah was his son, Eleasah his son and Azel his son.

    38 Azel had six sons, and these were their names:

    Azrikam, Bokeru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah and Hanan. All these were the sons of Azel.

    39 The sons of his brother Eshek:

    Ulam his firstborn, Jeush the second son and Eliphelet the third.40 The sons of Ulam were brave warriors who could handle the bow. They had many sons and grandsons—150 in all.

    All these were the descendants of Benjamin.

    Go Deeper

    This chapter continues with the genealogy and history of Israel. Chapter 8 is a detailed lineage of Saul (the first King of Israel). As we read through this list of names, we can think “What would the Chronicler want Israel to remember as they read these details about Saul’s family as they re-enter the Promised Land?” 

    We find Saul mentioned at the start of verse 33: “Ner was the father of Kish, Kish of Saul…” and then the chapter closes in verse 40 with the statement “All these were Benjamaninites.” A Benjamaninite refers to an Israelite from the tribe of Benjamin. In Genesis 49, when Jacob was close to death, he gathered his twelve sons and gave them each a blessing. These sons were the originators of the twelve tribes of Israel and each blessing served as a prophesy of what would come of the tribes that each son established. 

    It’s important that we remember what it meant to be a Benjaminite. We can find Jacob’s blessing on Benjamin in Genesis 49:27: “Benjamin is a ravenous wolf, in the morning he shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil.” The tribe of Benjamin became well known for being warriors. Even though it was the smallest of the twelve tribes, it was mighty. So, as you read through this list of seemingly meaningless names, you can imagine them as swordsmen and fighters who honorably defended their country. 

    The original Jewish audience would have recognized many of these names and remembered how they had contributed to their history. When they read Saul’s name, they would have remembered that when Samuel first revealed to Saul that he had been chosen by God as Israel’s King, Saul’s response was “But am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why do you say such a thing to me?” (1 Samuel 9:21). Saul did not feel like his heritage and lineage as a member of the tribe of Benjamin qualified him to be King. Yet, more than 500 years later there is an entire chapter of scripture devoted to chronicling the lineage of Saul to remind the Israelites of their spiritual heritage.  

    Saul was far from a perfect King. The original readers of Chronicles would have been very aware of Saul’s disobedience and missteps. They would have also recognized that God’s intention was for all the Bejamanites to possess a fierceness that they would steward for God’s glory and that while Saul’s physical strength was very strong, his spiritual strength was lacking. God divinely inspired and preserved Saul’s lineage in scripture for us to recognize and remember that while the world saw someone who came from small and humble beginnings, God saw a mighty warrior with the ability to both devour and divide. May we seek to be warriors of the Lord who obediently look to him for our strength instead of relying on our own.

    Questions

    1. What do you think the writer of Chronicles would want the Jewish people to remember about Saul? 
    2. First Samuel 16:7 says “For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” How did Saul’s outward appearance differ from his inward appearance? 
    3. Eight chapters into our reading through these genealogies, what is one theme or message that has stuck out to you the most?

    Did You Know?

    The genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin continues into the New Testament. In Romans 11:1, Paul writes “I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin.”

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  • 1 Chronicles 7

    1 Chronicles 7

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    Issachar

    7 The sons of Issachar:

    Tola, Puah, Jashub and Shimron—four in all.

    2 The sons of Tola:

    Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam and Samuel—heads of their families. During the reign of David, the descendants of Tola listed as fighting men in their genealogy numbered 22,600.

    3 The son of Uzzi:

    Izrahiah.

    The sons of Izrahiah:

    Michael, Obadiah, Joel and Ishiah. All five of them were chiefs.4 According to their family genealogy, they had 36,000 men ready for battle, for they had many wives and children.

    5 The relatives who were fighting men belonging to all the clans of Issachar, as listed in their genealogy, were 87,000 in all.

    Benjamin

    6 Three sons of Benjamin:

    Bela, Beker and Jediael.

    7 The sons of Bela:

    Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth and Iri, heads of families—five in all. Their genealogical record listed 22,034 fighting men.

    8 The sons of Beker:

    Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth and Alemeth. All these were the sons of Beker. 9 Their genealogical record listed the heads of families and 20,200 fighting men.

    10 The son of Jediael:

    Bilhan.

    The sons of Bilhan:

    Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Kenaanah, Zethan, Tarshish and Ahishahar.11 All these sons of Jediael were heads of families. There were 17,200 fighting men ready to go out to war.

    12 The Shuppites and Huppites were the descendants of Ir, and the Hushites the descendants of Aher.

    Naphtali

    13 The sons of Naphtali:

    Jahziel, Guni, Jezer and Shillem—the descendants of Bilhah.

    Manasseh

    14 The descendants of Manasseh:

    Asriel was his descendant through his Aramean concubine. She gave birth to Makir the father of Gilead. 15 Makir took a wife from among the Huppites and Shuppites. His sister’s name was Maakah.

    Another descendant was named Zelophehad, who had only daughters.

    16 Makir’s wife Maakah gave birth to a son and named him Peresh. His brother was named Sheresh, and his sons were Ulam and Rakem.

    17 The son of Ulam:

    Bedan.

    These were the sons of Gilead son of Makir, the son of Manasseh.18 His sister Hammoleketh gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer and Mahlah.

    19 The sons of Shemida were:

    Ahian, Shechem, Likhi and Aniam.

    Ephraim

    20 The descendants of Ephraim:

    Shuthelah, Bered his son,

    Tahath his son, Eleadah his son,

    Tahath his son, 21 Zabad his son

    and Shuthelah his son.

    Ezer and Elead were killed by the native-born men of Gath, when they went down to seize their livestock. 22 Their father Ephraim mourned for them many days, and his relatives came to comfort him. 23 Then he made love to his wife again, and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. He named him Beriah, because there had been misfortune in his family. 24 His daughter was Sheerah, who built Lower and Upper Beth Horon as well as Uzzen Sheerah.

    25 Rephah was his son, Resheph his son,

    Telah his son, Tahan his son,

    26 Ladan his son, Ammihud his son,

    Elishama his son, 27 Nun his son

    and Joshua his son.

    28 Their lands and settlements included Bethel and its surrounding villages, Naaran to the east, Gezer and its villages to the west, and Shechem and its villages all the way to Ayyah and its villages. 29 Along the borders of Manasseh were Beth Shan, Taanach, Megiddo and Dor,together with their villages. The descendants of Joseph son of Israel lived in these towns.

    Asher

    30 The sons of Asher:

    Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi and Beriah. Their sister was Serah.

    31 The sons of Beriah:

    Heber and Malkiel, who was the father of Birzaith.

    32 Heber was the father of Japhlet, Shomer and Hotham and of their sister Shua.

    33 The sons of Japhlet:

    Pasak, Bimhal and Ashvath.

    These were Japhlet’s sons.

    34 The sons of Shomer:

    Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah and Aram.

    35 The sons of his brother Helem:

    Zophah, Imna, Shelesh and Amal.

    36 The sons of Zophah:

    Suah, Harnepher, Shual, Beri, Imrah, 37 Bezer, Hod, Shamma, Shilshah, Ithran and Beera.

    38 The sons of Jether:

    Jephunneh, Pispah and Ara.

    39 The sons of Ulla:

    Arah, Hanniel and Rizia.

    40 All these were descendants of Asher—heads of families, choice men, brave warriors and outstanding leaders. The number of men ready for battle, as listed in their genealogy, was 26,000.

    Go Deeper

    First Chronicles 7 contains another list with lots of names. But when is a name more than just a name? Each person is a complex being, with a story, emotions, thoughts, friends, and family members (just like you). So, too, are the names listed in 1 Chronicles 7, outlining the tribes of Issachar, Naphtali, half of Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher. The listing in this chapter highlights two main points for the historian: the continuation of Israel and the number of “fighting men” from each tribe.

    In Genesis 22, we read that God told Abraham:

    “I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.”

    The continuation of Israel through the tribes’ children demonstrates God’s faithfulness to Abraham. And the number of fighting men is one of the tools God uses to help Israel “take possession of the cities of their enemies.” The historian of Chronicles is listing more than names; he is listing evidence that God did what He said He would do. 

    In addition to the listing of names, the writer of Chronicles calls out a few, so let’s take a closer look at two of these. Verse 24 specifically mentions that Ephraim’s granddaughter, Sheerah, “built Lower and Upper Beth Horon, as well as Uzzen Sheerah.” Not only did she build these cities, she built them well. While many cities were destroyed or lost with time, Lower and Upper Beth Horon may be found as Beit Ur al-Fauqa and Beit Ur al-Tahta in Palestine. Beth Horon becomes an important place for Israel’s success over the Amorites (Joshua 10). The writer of Chronicles knows this is coming and knows its importance, so he sets the stage with the establishment of this location here in 1 Chronicles 7. 

    Verse 40 offers commentary on the descendants of Asher:

    “All these were descendants of Asher—heads of families, choice men, brave warriors and outstanding leaders.” 

    The tribe of Asher played a crucial role in the conquest of Canaan and was among the first to receive its inheritance in the Promised Land. They settled along the Mediterranean Coast with excellent natural resources that became known for its abundance of olive trees, which provided them with a valuable resource for trade and commerce. The tribe provided warriors during the time of Judges, including the prophetess Deborah, who led the Israelites to victory against the Canaanites. During the reign of King David, the tribe of Asher was among the tribes that pledged their allegiance to him and supported him in his efforts to establish a unified kingdom of Israel. The writer of Chronicles foreshadows the importance of this tribe with this shoutout in this chapter.

    As you read more of Chronicles, reference these first few chapters of genealogy. These names will begin to mean more than just names. They will begin to take the shape of God’s promises and provisions.

    Questions

    1. The list of names in 1 Chronicles 7 is evidence of God’s faithfulness to Israel. What names would be on your list as evidence of God’s faithfulness in your life?
    2. If your name was on someone else’s list, how would you be described as contributing to the Kingdom of God?
    3. Pick one of the tribes listed to follow through 1 Chronicles. Draw a family tree, make notes, and see how God uses them in His bigger story.

    Watch This

    When studying history, it’s helpful to understand the end when you start to study the beginning. The tribes outlined in 1 Chronicles 7 all belong to the “lost tribes of Israel.” To learn more about these groups, check out this video on GotQuestions.org.

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  • 1 Chronicles 6

    1 Chronicles 6

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    Levi

    6 The sons of Levi:

    Gershon, Kohath and Merari.

    2 The sons of Kohath:

    Amram, Izhar, Hebron and Uzziel.

    3 The children of Amram:

    Aaron, Moses and Miriam.

    The sons of Aaron:

    Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar.

    4 Eleazar was the father of Phinehas,

    Phinehas the father of Abishua,

    5 Abishua the father of Bukki,

    Bukki the father of Uzzi,

    6 Uzzi the father of Zerahiah,

    Zerahiah the father of Meraioth,

    7 Meraioth the father of Amariah,

    Amariah the father of Ahitub,

    8 Ahitub the father of Zadok,

    Zadok the father of Ahimaaz,

    9 Ahimaaz the father of Azariah,

    Azariah the father of Johanan,

    10 Johanan the father of Azariah (it was he who served as priest in the temple Solomon built in Jerusalem),

    11 Azariah the father of Amariah,

    Amariah the father of Ahitub,

    12 Ahitub the father of Zadok,

    Zadok the father of Shallum,

    13 Shallum the father of Hilkiah,

    Hilkiah the father of Azariah,

    14 Azariah the father of Seraiah,

    and Seraiah the father of Jozadak.

    15 Jozadak was deported when the Lord sent Judah and Jerusalem into exile by the hand of Nebuchadnezzar.

    16 The sons of Levi:

    Gershon, Kohath and Merari.

    17 These are the names of the sons of Gershon:

    Libni and Shimei.

    18 The sons of Kohath:

    Amram, Izhar, Hebron and Uzziel.

    19 The sons of Merari:

    Mahli and Mushi.

    These are the clans of the Levites listed according to their fathers:

    20 Of Gershon:

    Libni his son, Jahath his son,

    Zimmah his son, 21 Joah his son,

    Iddo his son, Zerah his son

    and Jeatherai his son.

    22 The descendants of Kohath:

    Amminadab his son, Korah his son,

    Assir his son, 23 Elkanah his son,

    Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son,

    24 Tahath his son, Uriel his son,

    Uzziah his son and Shaul his son.

    25 The descendants of Elkanah:

    Amasai, Ahimoth,

    26 Elkanah his son, Zophai his son,

    Nahath his son, 27 Eliab his son,

    Jeroham his son, Elkanah his son

    and Samuel his son.

    28 The sons of Samuel:

    Joel the firstborn

    and Abijah the second son.

    29 The descendants of Merari:

    Mahli, Libni his son,

    Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

    30 Shimea his son, Haggiah his son

    and Asaiah his son.

    The Temple Musicians

    31 These are the men David put in charge of the music in the house of the Lord after the ark came to rest there. 32 They ministered with music before the tabernacle, the tent of meeting, until Solomon built the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. They performed their duties according to the regulations laid down for them.

    33 Here are the men who served, together with their sons:

    From the Kohathites:

    Heman, the musician,

    the son of Joel, the son of Samuel,

    34 the son of Elkanah, the son of Jeroham,

    the son of Eliel, the son of Toah,

    35 the son of Zuph, the son of Elkanah,

    the son of Mahath, the son of Amasai,

    36 the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel,

    the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah,

    37 the son of Tahath, the son of Assir,

    the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah,

    38 the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath,

    the son of Levi, the son of Israel;

    39 and Heman’s associate Asaph, who served at his right hand:

    Asaph son of Berekiah, the son of Shimea,

    40 the son of Michael, the son of Baaseiah,

    the son of Malkijah, 41 the son of Ethni,

    the son of Zerah, the son of Adaiah,

    42 the son of Ethan, the son of Zimmah,

    the son of Shimei, 43 the son of Jahath,

    the son of Gershon, the son of Levi;

    44 and from their associates, the Merarites, at his left hand:

    Ethan son of Kishi, the son of Abdi,

    the son of Malluk, 45 the son of Hashabiah,

    the son of Amaziah, the son of Hilkiah,

    46 the son of Amzi, the son of Bani,

    the son of Shemer, 47 the son of Mahli,

    the son of Mushi, the son of Merari,

    the son of Levi.

    48 Their fellow Levites were assigned to all the other duties of the tabernacle, the house of God. 49 But Aaron and his descendants were the ones who presented offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense in connection with all that was done in the Most Holy Place, making atonement for Israel, in accordance with all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.

    50 These were the descendants of Aaron:

    Eleazar his son, Phinehas his son,

    Abishua his son, 51 Bukki his son,

    Uzzi his son, Zerahiah his son,

    52 Meraioth his son, Amariah his son,

    Ahitub his son, 53 Zadok his son

    and Ahimaaz his son.

    54 These were the locations of their settlements allotted as their territory (they were assigned to the descendants of Aaron who were from the Kohathite clan, because the first lot was for them):

    55 They were given Hebron in Judah with its surrounding pasturelands. 56 But the fields and villages around the city were given to Caleb son of Jephunneh.

    57 So the descendants of Aaron were given Hebron (a city of refuge), and Libnah, Jattir, Eshtemoa, 58 Hilen, Debir, 59 Ashan, Juttah and Beth Shemesh, together with their pasturelands. 60 And from the tribe of Benjamin they were given Gibeon, Geba, Alemeth and Anathoth, together with their pasturelands.

    The total number of towns distributed among the Kohathite clans came to thirteen.

    61 The rest of Kohath’s descendants were allotted ten towns from the clans of half the tribe of Manasseh.

    62 The descendants of Gershon, clan by clan, were allotted thirteen towns from the tribes of Issachar, Asher and Naphtali, and from the part of the tribe of Manasseh that is in Bashan.

    63 The descendants of Merari, clan by clan, were allotted twelve towns from the tribes of Reuben, Gad and Zebulun.

    64 So the Israelites gave the Levites these towns and their pasturelands. 65 From the tribes of Judah, Simeon and Benjamin they allotted the previously named towns.

    66 Some of the Kohathite clans were given as their territory towns from the tribe of Ephraim.

    67 In the hill country of Ephraim they were given Shechem (a city of refuge), and Gezer, 68 Jokmeam, Beth Horon, 69 Aijalon and Gath Rimmon, together with their pasturelands.

    70 And from half the tribe of Manasseh the Israelites gave Aner and Bileam, together with their pasturelands, to the rest of the Kohathite clans.

    71 The Gershonites received the following:

    From the clan of the half-tribe of Manasseh

    they received Golan in Bashan and also Ashtaroth, together with their pasturelands;

    72 from the tribe of Issachar

    they received Kedesh, Daberath, 73 Ramoth and Anem, together with their pasturelands;

    74 from the tribe of Asher

    they received Mashal, Abdon, 75 Hukok and Rehob, together with their pasturelands;

    76 and from the tribe of Naphtali

    they received Kedesh in Galilee, Hammon and Kiriathaim, together with their pasturelands.

    77 The Merarites (the rest of the Levites) received the following:

    From the tribe of Zebulun

    they received Jokneam, Kartah, Rimmono and Tabor, together with their pasturelands;

    78 from the tribe of Reuben across the Jordan east of Jericho

    they received Bezer in the wilderness, Jahzah, 79 Kedemoth and Mephaath, together with their pasturelands;

    80 and from the tribe of Gad

    they received Ramoth in Gilead, Mahanaim, 81 Heshbon and Jazer,together with their pasturelands.

    Go Deeper

    As we encounter 1 Chronicles 6 today, it feels like another trip through ancestry.com, reading lists of mostly unfamiliar names in a genealogy. As we’ve established over the previous few days, this may present a challenge or an excuse to skim quickly. But there is a benefit to us, the readers, as we don’t just read, but study these names. 

    With context and recognition of the purpose of the list, this day’s reading can encourage and remind us of God’s never-failing plan to redeem and restore. God established a priestly line (or family) as He organized the Israelites through Moses’ instruction. The details of this lineage and a reminder of their roles was significant to the recipients of this chronicle: the returning exiles of Judah from seventy years of Babylonian captivity. It is not hard to imagine there would be a loss of memory or any understanding of their roles as they head back to Judah. Seventy years is at least two generations!

    Tracing their line as a member of the tribe of Levi gave the exiled family of Levi a designated role and a crucial purpose in the restoration of their nation. Those of Aaron’s line would serve as the priests who would present offerings in the Most Holy Place of the temple (to be rebuilt) and make atonement (payment) for the people of Israel’s sins as Moses prescribed by God. King David assigned certain Levites to minister with music as part of their worship. Two names recorded here, Heman and Asaph, are attributed to penning several of the Psalms. Other Levites contributed to the other duties related to the house of God.

    This list of names begins to come to life as we view it through the lens of context and purpose. How can this list encourage us today? The priestly duty of Aaron’s line included making atonement for the sins of God’s people. This provision, established by God, pointed to a better, eternal atonement offered by Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross as payment for our sins. Today, as we are reminded of God’s provision recorded through His people and their families, we can give thanks that His ultimate never-failing plan to restore and redeem us came through Christ Jesus, the better, superior priest.

    Questions

    1. Who do you recall from your past that has left a legacy of faith for you? If no one comes to mind, how could you begin that legacy for those that follow you?
    2. How have you benefited from the ministry of music as you worship? Take a moment to thank God for those who serve in this role.
    3. Who needs to know of God’s provision to redeem through Jesus? How will you share that great news this week?

    Did You Know?

    Asaph (referenced in v. 39) is credited with writing at least 11 psalms. Check out this article from GotQuestions.org for more information on Asaph.

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  • 1 Chronicles 5

    1 Chronicles 5

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    Reuben

    5 The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel (he was the firstborn, but when he defiled his father’s marriage bed, his rights as firstborn were given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel; so he could not be listed in the genealogical record in accordance with his birthright, 2 and though Judah was the strongest of his brothers and a ruler came from him, the rights of the firstborn belonged to Joseph)— 3 the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel:

    Hanok, Pallu, Hezron and Karmi.

    4 The descendants of Joel:

    Shemaiah his son, Gog his son,

    Shimei his son, 5 Micah his son,

    Reaiah his son, Baal his son,

    6 and Beerah his son, whom Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria took into exile. Beerah was a leader of the Reubenites.

    7 Their relatives by clans, listed according to their genealogical records:

    Jeiel the chief, Zechariah, 8 and Bela son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel. They settled in the area from Aroer to Nebo and Baal Meon. 9 To the east they occupied the land up to the edge of the desert that extends to the Euphrates River, because their livestock had increased in Gilead.

    10 During Saul’s reign they waged war against the Hagrites, who were defeated at their hands; they occupied the dwellings of the Hagrites throughout the entire region east of Gilead.

    Gad

    11 The Gadites lived next to them in Bashan, as far as Salekah:

    12 Joel was the chief, Shapham the second, then Janai and Shaphat, in Bashan.

    13 Their relatives, by families, were:

    Michael, Meshullam, Sheba, Jorai, Jakan, Zia and Eber—seven in all.

    14 These were the sons of Abihail son of Huri, the son of Jaroah, the son of Gilead, the son of Michael, the son of Jeshishai, the son of Jahdo, the son of Buz.

    15 Ahi son of Abdiel, the son of Guni, was head of their family.

    16 The Gadites lived in Gilead, in Bashan and its outlying villages, and on all the pasturelands of Sharon as far as they extended.

    17 All these were entered in the genealogical records during the reigns of Jotham king of Judah and Jeroboam king of Israel.

    18 The Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh had 44,760 men ready for military service—able-bodied men who could handle shield and sword, who could use a bow, and who were trained for battle. 19 They waged war against the Hagrites, Jetur, Naphish and Nodab. 20 They were helped in fighting them, and God delivered the Hagrites and all their allies into their hands, because they cried out to him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they trustedin him. 21 They seized the livestock of the Hagrites—fifty thousand camels, two hundred fifty thousand sheep and two thousand donkeys. They also took one hundred thousand people captive, 22 and many others fell slain, because the battle was God’s. And they occupied the land until the exile.

    The Half-Tribe of Manasseh

    23 The people of the half-tribe of Manasseh were numerous; they settled in the land from Bashan to Baal Hermon, that is, to Senir (Mount Hermon).

    24 These were the heads of their families: Epher, Ishi, Eliel, Azriel, Jeremiah, Hodaviah and Jahdiel. They were brave warriors, famous men, and heads of their families. 25 But they were unfaithful to the God of their ancestors and prostituted themselves to the gods of the peoples of the land, whom God had destroyed before them. 26 So the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria (that is, Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria), who took the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh into exile. He took them to Halah, Habor, Hara and the river of Gozan, where they are to this day.

    Go Deeper

    In 1 Chronicle 5, Ezra continues capturing intricate details relating to the tribes of Israel, and in this chapter more specifically the three Transjordan tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. Many times, we’re tempted to just skip over large portions of scripture that contain names we either can’t pronounce or which appear to have no significant story to tell.  In today’s passage, we might just want to do that, but sometimes it’s helpful to slow down and see the bigger story in what seems to be meaningless details. 

    We should remember that these people and their lives are each important to the whole story of God’s deliverance of mankind from the grip and power of sin in humanity. Maybe when we personalize it and remember that each one was born and experienced hunger, losing their first tooth, learning to speak, scraping their knees, puppy love, fear, rejection, wonder, excitement, loss, sickness and death. Each person played their part in God’s story, no matter how seemingly insignificant. Each one shares the honor of having had their name mentioned by God in his word (good or bad).

    One thing about the word of God is that it doesn’t hide the faults and failures of these men and women in history. God used, and still uses flawed people to accomplish his redemptive purpose and we get to see just how loving, kind, and gracious God is in the process. 

    This chapter begins with mentioning Reuben (Jacob’s first born through Leah), a man who defiled his father’s bed (Genesis 35:22), and we see in the story Jacob’s favoritism expressed by choosing Joseph (Rachel’s firstborn son) to receive Reuben’s birthright. We might be tempted to leave that part out; maybe just keep things G-rated and protect peoples’ reputation, etc., but it’s in the rawness and honesty where our loving God and his redemptive purposes are magnified. We see God’s grace demonstrated in the blessings Ruben’s offspring experience in spite of his failure. Scripture tells us that God multiplied their livestock and gave them victory in battle. 

    Each name mentioned is important in the big story of which God is the author (and you’re part of that story, too). Each person, like a cog in a gear, plays its specific role. One day, God will reveal this tapestry in which we have been woven and we’ll discover how God deserves all the glory in what may seem to be an insignificant story of our lives. 

    Questions

    1. Why do you think it is important to God to mention the names of all these people as well as highlighting their faithfulness or unfaithfulness?
    2. You may not be a preacher, evangelist, or teacher, but you’re a son or daughter, husband or wife, father or mother, friend or mentor, etc. who has touched someone else’s life. How do you see God using you in His story?
    3. What’s an audacious prayer you can pray asking God to use you in His story?

    Try This

    Take a moment and look at the verses again. As you look at those names and small details given, consider why their names were mentioned. Find a trusted commentary and dive deeper into one of those names today!

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  • Rest Day + Family Guide (2 Kings 24-1 Chronicles 4)

    Rest Day + Family Guide (2 Kings 24-1 Chronicles 4)

    Rest Day

    Each Sunday is a Rest Day. There is no new Bible reading to do. Today, the goal is simple: rest in the presence of God. Maybe you need to use today to get caught up on the reading plan if you’re behind, maybe you want to journal what you’re learning so you don’t forget what God is teaching you, or maybe you want to spend time in concentrated prayer–do that. Above all, just spend time in God’s presence.

    Each Rest Day, we will have an additional element to help you dig deeper. Sometimes it will be extra resources to further your study, a video to watch, or a podcast to listen to. Sometimes we’ll have a verse to commit to memorize to help you hide God’s Word in your heart. 

    If you have kids, our Family Guide will help you discuss what you’re reading and learning with them! It’s a great opportunity for your family to read God’s Word together and review what we read the previous week!

    Keep Digging

    The Bible (including a large portion of 1 Chronicles) is full of genealogies that all help tell the story of scripture. But why are they there? And why should we read them? 

    Check out this article from GotQuestions.org! 

    Family Guide

    Check out this week’s 2 Kings 24- 1 Chronicles 4 Family Guide!

  • 1 Chronicles 4

    1 Chronicles 4

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    Other Clans of Judah

    4 The descendants of Judah:

    Perez, Hezron, Karmi, Hur and Shobal.

    2 Reaiah son of Shobal was the father of Jahath, and Jahath the father of Ahumai and Lahad. These were the clans of the Zorathites.

    3 These were the sons of Etam:

    Jezreel, Ishma and Idbash. Their sister was named Hazzelelponi.4 Penuel was the father of Gedor, and Ezer the father of Hushah.

    These were the descendants of Hur, the firstborn of Ephrathah and fatherof Bethlehem.

    5 Ashhur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.

    6 Naarah bore him Ahuzzam, Hepher, Temeni and Haahashtari. These were the descendants of Naarah.

    7 The sons of Helah:

    Zereth, Zohar, Ethnan, 8 and Koz, who was the father of Anub and Hazzobebah and of the clans of Aharhel son of Harum.

    9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.

    11 Kelub, Shuhah’s brother, was the father of Mehir, who was the father of Eshton. 12 Eshton was the father of Beth Rapha, Paseah and Tehinnah the father of Ir Nahash. These were the men of Rekah.

    13 The sons of Kenaz:

    Othniel and Seraiah.

    The sons of Othniel:

    Hathath and Meonothai. 14 Meonothai was the father of Ophrah.

    Seraiah was the father of Joab,

    the father of Ge Harashim. It was called this because its people were skilled workers.

    15 The sons of Caleb son of Jephunneh:

    Iru, Elah and Naam.

    The son of Elah:

    Kenaz.

    16 The sons of Jehallelel:

    Ziph, Ziphah, Tiria and Asarel.

    17 The sons of Ezrah:

    Jether, Mered, Epher and Jalon. One of Mered’s wives gave birth to Miriam, Shammai and Ishbah the father of Eshtemoa. 18 (His wife from the tribe of Judah gave birth to Jered the father of Gedor, Heber the father of Soko, and Jekuthiel the father of Zanoah.) These were the children of Pharaoh’s daughter Bithiah, whom Mered had married.

    19 The sons of Hodiah’s wife, the sister of Naham:

    the father of Keilah the Garmite, and Eshtemoa the Maakathite.

    20 The sons of Shimon:

    Amnon, Rinnah, Ben-Hanan and Tilon.

    The descendants of Ishi:

    Zoheth and Ben-Zoheth.

    21 The sons of Shelah son of Judah:

    Er the father of Lekah, Laadah the father of Mareshah and the clans of the linen workers at Beth Ashbea, 22 Jokim, the men of Kozeba, and Joash and Saraph, who ruled in Moab and Jashubi Lehem. (These records are from ancient times.) 23 They were the potters who lived at Netaim and Gederah; they stayed there and worked for the king.

    Simeon

    24 The descendants of Simeon:

    Nemuel, Jamin, Jarib, Zerah and Shaul;

    25 Shallum was Shaul’s son, Mibsam his son and Mishma his son.

    26 The descendants of Mishma:

    Hammuel his son, Zakkur his son and Shimei his son.

    27 Shimei had sixteen sons and six daughters, but his brothers did not have many children; so their entire clan did not become as numerous as the people of Judah. 28 They lived in Beersheba, Moladah, Hazar Shual,29 Bilhah, Ezem, Tolad, 30 Bethuel, Hormah, Ziklag, 31 Beth Markaboth, Hazar Susim, Beth Biri and Shaaraim. These were their towns until the reign of David. 32 Their surrounding villages were Etam, Ain, Rimmon, Token and Ashan—five towns— 33 and all the villages around these towns as far as Baalath. These were their settlements. And they kept a genealogical record.

    34 Meshobab, Jamlech, Joshah son of Amaziah, 35 Joel, Jehu son of Joshibiah, the son of Seraiah, the son of Asiel, 36 also Elioenai, Jaakobah, Jeshohaiah, Asaiah, Adiel, Jesimiel, Benaiah, 37 and Ziza son of Shiphi, the son of Allon, the son of Jedaiah, the son of Shimri, the son of Shemaiah.

    38 The men listed above by name were leaders of their clans. Their families increased greatly, 39 and they went to the outskirts of Gedor to the east of the valley in search of pasture for their flocks. 40 They found rich, good pasture, and the land was spacious, peaceful and quiet. Some Hamites had lived there formerly.

    41 The men whose names were listed came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah. They attacked the Hamites in their dwellings and also the Meuniteswho were there and completely destroyed them, as is evident to this day. Then they settled in their place, because there was pasture for their flocks.42 And five hundred of these Simeonites, led by Pelatiah, Neariah, Rephaiah and Uzziel, the sons of Ishi, invaded the hill country of Seir. 43 They killed the remaining Amalekites who had escaped, and they have lived there to this day.

    Go Deeper

    Our journey through the genealogies of 1 Chronicles brings us to 1 Chronicles 4, describing the descendants of Judah and Simeon. Jacob had twelve sons who became the twelve tribes of Israel. Judah was the fourth son of Jacob and Simeon was the second. Why so much focus on Judah? If we look back to Genesis 49, we read what Jacob said would happen to his sons in the days to come. In Genesis 49:10 Jacob says, “The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his.” From the line of Judah will eventually come David, and from David will eventually come Jesus, the King of kings and the Lord of Lords who will reign forever. 

    In these genealogies and detailed descriptions, we see God’s redemptive plan playing out through generations. There is a bigness about God that we see when we take a bird’s eye view through history and see God’s sovereign hand over the lives and coming and going of his people. Imagine how each of these people probably didn’t know exactly their role or significance in the grand scheme during their lifetime, but God saw it all and planned it all and knew them all personally.

    Amidst the list of genealogies, a short description of Jabez stands out in the line of Judah (4:9-10).  It’s interesting how his life is described in just a couple verses. He was “more honorable than his brothers.” His mother didn’t name him in a way that would suggest honor or blessing – his name (similar to the Hebrew for pain) was given because she “gave birth to him in pain.” Yet despite this beginning, he didn’t wallow in self pity and sit paralyzed by the pain that marked his name. Instead, he cried out to God for help. He prayed for God to bless him, to enlarge his territory, for God’s hand to be with him, and for God to protect him from harm and pain. Those were big prayers, hoping for big things. And “God granted his request.” His sad history and name didn’t determine his future–God is bigger and stronger than the pain of his past.

    Questions

    1. Is there anything in your history that makes you doubtful about what God might do in and through you? How would you live or pray differently if you fully trusted that God’s plans and power are bigger than your past?
    2. Would you characterize your prayers as sparse and small or frequent and big? What does that suggest about your dependence on God to provide all the blessing and protection you need?
    3. Reflect on a time in your life when you couldn’t see God’s perspective at the time, but only later could see how He was working in the circumstances and trials to bring about his good purposes. Consider how you could share that story with others to proclaim God’s goodness and greatness.

    Keep Digging

    How do we know if our prayers for blessing, protection, etc. are selfish or whether they are honoring God? Check out this sermon (or transcript, if you prefer) on prayer.

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  • 1 Chronicles 3

    1 Chronicles 3

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    The Sons of David

    3 These were the sons of David born to him in Hebron:

    The firstborn was Amnon the son of Ahinoam of Jezreel;the second, Daniel the son of Abigail of Carmel;2 the third, Absalom the son of Maakah daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith;3 the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;and the sixth, Ithream, by his wife Eglah.4 These six were born to David in Hebron, where he reigned seven years and six months.David reigned in Jerusalem thirty-three years, 5 and these were the children born to him there:

    Shammua, Shobab, Nathan and Solomon. These four were by Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel. 6 There were also Ibhar, Elishua,Eliphelet, 7 Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, 8 Elishama, Eliada and Eliphelet—nine in all. 9 All these were the sons of David, besides his sons by his concubines. And Tamar was their sister.

    The Kings of Judah

    10 Solomon’s son was Rehoboam,Abijah his son,Asa his son,Jehoshaphat his son,11 Jehoram his son,Ahaziah his son,Joash his son,12 Amaziah his son,Azariah his son,Jotham his son,13 Ahaz his son,Hezekiah his son,Manasseh his son,14 Amon his son,Josiah his son.15 The sons of Josiah:Johanan the firstborn,Jehoiakim the second son,Zedekiah the third,Shallum the fourth.16 The successors of Jehoiakim:Jehoiachin his son,and Zedekiah.

    The Royal Line After the Exile

    17 The descendants of Jehoiachin the captive:Shealtiel his son, 18 Malkiram, Pedaiah, Shenazzar, Jekamiah, Hoshama and Nedabiah.19 The sons of Pedaiah:Zerubbabel and Shimei.The sons of Zerubbabel:Meshullam and Hananiah.Shelomith was their sister.20 There were also five others:Hashubah, Ohel, Berekiah, Hasadiah and Jushab-Hesed.21 The descendants of Hananiah:Pelatiah and Jeshaiah, and the sons of Rephaiah, of Arnan, of Obadiah and of Shekaniah.22 The descendants of Shekaniah:Shemaiah and his sons:Hattush, Igal, Bariah, Neariah and Shaphat—six in all.23 The sons of Neariah:Elioenai, Hizkiah and Azrikam—three in all.24 The sons of Elioenai:Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah and Anani—seven in all.

    Go Deeper

    Spoiler alert: the story of imperfect people leads to a perfect Christ. Before we get to that part, 1 Chronicles 3 is another instance of the re-telling of a family lineage. Although the account of each person and relationship is difficult to follow, there is a significant point to hold onto as we read this passage: hold fast to discipline, because discipline is a blessing that preserves the promise.

    First Chronicles 3 chapter has three distinct sections: David’s children (3:1-9), Solomon and the kings of Judah (v. 10-16), and the generations following the exile (v. 17-24). Each section has triumph, trials, and trauma following the family line. Take the Babylonian exile, for instance. The chosen people went through the most unthinkable circumstances.

    A recognizable character of the passage is David. God made a promise to David. “Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever” (2 Samuel 7:16). This would have been great if David and his descendants were as faithful to the covenant as God will always be. We read a couple verses before what is included in God’s promise to David: “I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands. But my love will never be taken away from him…” (v. 14-15).

    Wisdom is breathed out in the instruction written out in Proverbs 3:11-12: “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”.

    The author of the book of Hebrews quoted this proverb and followed it with commentary. “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?” (12:7). It is okay to assume that the author intended to make everyone who is a child of God aware of the importance of discipline. Discipline is a blessing that is not meant to be taken for granted by the sons and daughters of God.

    Back to the earlier spoiler: David’s lineage extends to the one that proclaims himself as the “Son of David”: Jesus Christ. Integrity in the family lineage was not only for the honor of the family on earth. It was for generations to come. Most importantly, discipline is meant to help us honor God and the covenant he makes towards His people (both then and now). 

    Questions

    1. How can you take time to creatively reflect (i.e. meditate, journal, draw, paint, play) on the way that God has brought you to reading this devotional?
    2. What part of your story have you invited Jesus into? How has that changed your life?
    3. Who can you bring alongside you in your story, especially as you ask God to help you with discipline in a particular part?

    Keep Digging

    Check out this helpful blog post about reading 1 Chronicles from The Bible Project!

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  • 1 Chronicles 2

    1 Chronicles 2

    Read 1 Chronicles 2

    Israel’s Sons

    2 These were the sons of Israel:

    Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, 2 Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad and Asher.

    Judah

    To Hezron’s Sons

    3 The sons of Judah:Er, Onan and Shelah. These three were born to him by a Canaanite woman, the daughter of Shua. Er, Judah’s firstborn, was wicked in the Lord’s sight; so the Lord put him to death. 4 Judah’s daughter-in-lawTamar bore Perez and Zerah to Judah. He had five sons in all.

    5 The sons of Perez:Hezron and Hamul.6 The sons of Zerah:Zimri, Ethan, Heman, Kalkol and Darda—five in all.7 The son of Karmi:Achar, who brought trouble on Israel by violating the ban on taking devoted things.8 The son of Ethan:Azariah.9 The sons born to Hezron were:Jerahmeel, Ram and Caleb.

    From Ram Son of Hezron

    10 Ram was the father ofAmminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, the leader of the people of Judah. 11 Nahshon was the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, 12 Boaz the father of Obed and Obed the father of Jesse.13 Jesse was the father ofEliab his firstborn; the second son was Abinadab, the third Shimea,14 the fourth Nethanel, the fifth Raddai, 15 the sixth Ozem and the seventh David. 16 Their sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail. Zeruiah’s three sons were Abishai, Joab and Asahel. 17 Abigail was the mother of Amasa, whose father was Jether the Ishmaelite.

    Caleb Son of Hezron

    18 Caleb son of Hezron had children by his wife Azubah (and by Jerioth). These were her sons: Jesher, Shobab and Ardon. 19 When Azubah died, Caleb married Ephrath, who bore him Hur. 20 Hur was the father of Uri, and Uri the father of Bezalel.21 Later, Hezron, when he was sixty years old, married the daughter of Makir the father of Gilead. He made love to her, and she bore him Segub. 22 Segub was the father of Jair, who controlled twenty-three towns in Gilead. 23 (But Geshur and Aram captured Havvoth Jair, as well as Kenath with its surrounding settlements—sixty towns.) All these were descendants of Makir the father of Gilead.

    24 After Hezron died in Caleb Ephrathah, Abijah the wife of Hezron bore him Ashhur the father of Tekoa.

    Jerahmeel Son of Hezron

    25 The sons of Jerahmeel the firstborn of Hezron:Ram his firstborn, Bunah, Oren, Ozem and Ahijah. 26 Jerahmeel had another wife, whose name was Atarah; she was the mother of Onam.27 The sons of Ram the firstborn of Jerahmeel:Maaz, Jamin and Eker.28 The sons of Onam:Shammai and Jada.The sons of Shammai:Nadab and Abishur.29 Abishur’s wife was named Abihail, who bore him Ahban and Molid.30 The sons of Nadab:Seled and Appaim. Seled died without children.31 The son of Appaim:Ishi, who was the father of Sheshan.Sheshan was the father of Ahlai.32 The sons of Jada, Shammai’s brother:Jether and Jonathan. Jether died without children.33 The sons of Jonathan:Peleth and Zaza.These were the descendants of Jerahmeel.34 Sheshan had no sons—only daughters.He had an Egyptian servant named Jarha. 35 Sheshan gave his daughter in marriage to his servant Jarha, and she bore him Attai.36 Attai was the father of Nathan,Nathan the father of Zabad,37 Zabad the father of Ephlal,Ephlal the father of Obed,38 Obed the father of Jehu,Jehu the father of Azariah,39 Azariah the father of Helez,Helez the father of Eleasah,40 Eleasah the father of Sismai,Sismai the father of Shallum,41 Shallum the father of Jekamiah,and Jekamiah the father of Elishama.

    The Clans of Caleb

    42 The sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel:Mesha his firstborn, who was the father of Ziph, and his son Mareshah,who was the father of Hebron.43 The sons of Hebron:Korah, Tappuah, Rekem and Shema. 44 Shema was the father of Raham, and Raham the father of Jorkeam. Rekem was the father of Shammai.45 The son of Shammai was Maon, and Maon was the father of Beth Zur.46 Caleb’s concubine Ephah was the mother of Haran, Moza and Gazez. Haran was the father of Gazez.47 The sons of Jahdai:Regem, Jotham, Geshan, Pelet, Ephah and Shaaph.48 Caleb’s concubine Maakah was the mother of Sheber and Tirhanah.49 She also gave birth to Shaaph the father of Madmannah and to Sheva the father of Makbenah and Gibea. Caleb’s daughter was Aksah.50 These were the descendants of Caleb.

    The sons of Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah:Shobal the father of Kiriath Jearim, 51 Salma the father of Bethlehem, and Hareph the father of Beth Gader.52 The descendants of Shobal the father of Kiriath Jearim were:Haroeh, half the Manahathites, 53 and the clans of Kiriath Jearim: the Ithrites, Puthites, Shumathites and Mishraites. From these descended the Zorathites and Eshtaolites.54 The descendants of Salma:Bethlehem, the Netophathites, Atroth Beth Joab, half the Manahathites, the Zorites, 55 and the clans of scribes who lived at Jabez: the Tirathites, Shimeathites and Sucathites. These are the Kenites who came from Hammath, the father of the Rekabites.

    Go Deeper

    Lists of family genealogies are key features in the books of 1 and 2 Chronicles. Although they are not everyone’s favorite chapters in Scripture, there are many reasons that genealogies were important to the Jewish people and are important for us as well. They served as proof of Jewish identity which meant being an heir to the blessings promised to Abraham back in Genesis 12 of land, seed, and blessing. They were crucial in tracing the line of the Messiah. These genealogies were also evidence of the historical accuracy of the Bible. These are not just a list of names. They are real people with real stories. We know that God uses every story, and He cares about the details. We should not simply read genealogies, we should study them. 

    This chapter continues the genealogies of the descendants of Israel (Jacob) and Judah, who is the fourth son of Jacob. “Israel” is the name that God gave Jacob when he was rebranded in Genesis 32. The twelve sons of Israel is where we get the twelve tribes of Israel. His sons were: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad and Asher. A majority of this chapter, however, goes through the descendants of Judah. There is a section in this chapter dedicated to the line of Perez, who was Judah’s son by explicit means of his daughter-in-law, Tamar (Genesis 38). Through Perez’s line comes a man named Boaz, who married Ruth and preserved Jacob’s family. 

    The line of Perez also includes King David, and the future Messiah. There are many prophecies about Judah’s family line. In Genesis 49, Israel (Jacob) spoke blessings over his twelve sons. He said, “The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his” (49:10). This means that the tribe of Judah will produce conquering kings, and a very specific King who will rule forever. This points to a future Victor who would come from the line of Judah: Jesus Christ. 

    Jesus has always been God’s “Plan A” to redeem and restore the broken world from the beginning (Genesis 3:15). He is called the “Lion of Judah” both in Genesis and Revelation. A lion is a symbol of a kingly tribe, and we know that King David was a descendant of Judah as well. Jesus is the long-awaited Lion of Judah who came to establish an eternal kingdom. In the book of Revelation, the apostle John received a revelation on the island of Patmos. It was said to him, “See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals” (Revelation 5:5). Jesus is both the Lion of Judah and the Lamb who was slain for us. Just as the people of Israel looked forward to the future King from the line of Judah who would reign, we get to look back on what He has done and celebrate. Jesus is a Warrior-King who will one day return and reign in glory!

    Questions

    1. What names in these genealogies were familiar to you? What do you know about these people?
    2.  What can we learn from the descendants of Judah? How does this line fit into God’s sovereign plan throughout Scripture? 
    3. What does Jesus’ family line teach us about how God accomplishes His purposes?

    Listen Here

    Check out the song “LION” by Elevation Worship! 

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