While the genealogies in 1 Chronicles mention each of the twelve tribes of Israel, there is a clear focus on two tribes in particular. 1 Chronicles 2-4 focuses on the line of Judah (110 verses) and 1 Chronicles 6 focuses on the line of Levi (81 verses). This special emphasis on Judah and Levi purposefully highlights the royal and priestly lines of Israel.
The stories that follow the genealogies just further emphasize the ideas of kingship and priesthood by chronicling the establishment of Israel’s kingdom and the formalizing of worship in the temple.They also point us forward to and prepare us for the arrival of Jesus, our ultimate king and priest. Hebrews 4:14-16 beautifully captures this dual emphasis…
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
Take a moment to reflect on the verses above and ask the Holy Spirit what He wants to speak to you through them.
The stories that follow the genealogies just further emphasize the ideas of kingship and priesthood by chronicling the establishment of Israel’s kingdom and the formalizing of worship in the temple.They also point us forward to and prepare us for the arrival of Jesus, our ultimate king and priest. Hebrews 4:14-16 beautifully captures this dual emphasis…
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
Take a moment to reflect on the verses above and ask the Holy Spirit what He wants to speak to you through them.
Posted in devo