Daily Bread for May 3, 1 Chr 7-8

Today’s readings are 1 Chr 7-8.

In 1 Chr 7 the rest of the tribes, except for Dan and Zebulon are listed and tracked. All the tribes mentioned are northern tribes, except for Benjamin.

Judah’s might is being calculated as they regroup. Keeping in mind that the northern tribes are scattered, and the southern tribes are just returning home when this book is written, this may be the Chronicler’s way of reminding his readers that their only hope as a nation lies in reuniting as they did in the days of David, who is mentioned in 1 Chr 7:2. We’ll see this theme developed in the next few chapters.

1 Chr 8:1-40 traces the genealogy and geography of the tribe of Benjamin, this time itemizing their descendants rather than their military might. The list of genealogies began with Judah (1 Chr 2:42-55; 4:1-23) and is book-ended by Benjamin. Judah and Benjamin are frequently paired together in both volumes of Chronicles. The author wants us to know the geography and makeup of both tribes as they will form the foundation for Israel as she redevelops.

We also see Saul's lineage in 1 Chr 8:29-40. Most notably, we see Saul’s descendants begin to grow and thrive through Mephibosheth (referred to as Merib-baal), the lame man who was Jonathan’s son.

Through it all, we see God blessing through remnants and being faithful to his word to keep a descendant of David on the throne. The genealogies are evidence that God will do what He says He will do.