I Chronicles 26: Stewards of the Sanctuary
Concerning the divisions of the porters: Of the Korhites was Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph.
And the sons of Meshelemiah were, Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth,
Elam the fifth, Jehohanan the sixth, Elioenai the seventh.
Moreover the sons of Obed–edom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,
Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God blessed him.
Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they were mighty men of valour.
The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.
All these of the sons of Obed–edom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obed–edom.
And Meshelemiah had sons and brethren, strong men, eighteen.
Also Hosah, of the children of Merari, had sons; Simri the chief, (for though he was not the firstborn, yet his father made him the chief;)
Hilkiah the second, Tebaliah the third, Zechariah the fourth: all the sons and brethren of Hosah were thirteen.
Among these were the divisions of the porters, even among the chief men, having wards one against another, to minister in the house of the Lord.
And they cast lots, as well the small as the great, according to the house of their fathers, for every gate.
And the lot eastward fell to Shelemiah. Then for Zechariah his son, a wise counsellor, they cast lots; and his lot came out northward.
To Obed–edom southward; and to his sons the house of Asuppim.
To Shuppim and Hosah the lot came forth westward, with the gate Shallecheth, by the causeway of the going up, ward against ward.
Eastward were six Levites, northward four a day, southward four a day, and toward Asuppim two and two.
At Parbar westward, four at the causeway, and two at Parbar.
These are the divisions of the porters among the sons of Kore, and among the sons of Merari.
And of the Levites, Ahijah was over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things.
As concerning the sons of Laadan; the sons of the Gershonite Laadan, chief fathers, even of Laadan the Gershonite, were Jehieli.
The sons of Jehieli; Zetham, and Joel his brother, which were over the treasures of the house of the Lord.
Of the Amramites, and the Izharites, the Hebronites, and the Uzzielites:
And Shebuel the son of Gershom, the son of Moses, was ruler of the treasures.
And his brethren by Eliezer; Rehabiah his son, and Jeshaiah his son, and Joram his son, and Zichri his son, and Shelomith his son.
Which Shelomith and his brethren were over all the treasures of the dedicated things, which David the king, and the chief fathers, the captains over thousands and hundreds, and the captains of the host, had dedicated.
Out of the spoils won in battles did they dedicate to maintain the house of the Lord.
And all that Samuel the seer, and Saul the son of Kish, and Abner the son of Ner, and Joab the son of Zeruiah, had dedicated; and whosoever had dedicated any thing, it was under the hand of Shelomith, and of his brethren.
Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons were for the outward business over Israel, for officers and judges.
And of the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his brethren, men of valour, a thousand and seven hundred, were officers among them of Israel on this side Jordan westward in all the business of the Lord, and in the service of the king.
Among the Hebronites was Jerijah the chief, even among the Hebronites, according to the generations of his fathers. In the fortieth year of the reign of David they were sought for, and there were found among them mighty men of valour at Jazer of Gilead.
And his brethren, men of valour, were two thousand and seven hundred chief fathers, whom king David made rulers over the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, for every matter pertaining to God, and affairs of the king.
I Chronicles 26 details David's meticulous organization of the gatekeepers, treasurers, and other officials within the Levitical order, all in preparation for the future temple. This chapter provides a fascinating glimpse into the comprehensive planning that went into ensuring the smooth and secure operation of God's house. The careful assignment of duties, the emphasis on faithfulness, and the recognition of God's providential hand in even seemingly random events offer valuable lessons for us today.
The Gatekeepers: Guardians of Access (I Chronicles 26:1-19)
The chapter begins by focusing on the gatekeepers, a crucial security detail responsible for guarding the various entrances to the temple. Their role was not merely ceremonial; they were entrusted with protecting the sacred space from intrusion and ensuring proper order within the temple precincts. The fact that these gatekeepers were carefully selected highlights the importance of their position.
I Chronicles 26:1 mentions that these gatekeepers were from the sons of Korah and Merari. This lineage connects them to a history of service and dedication within the Levitical order. Their selection was not arbitrary; it was rooted in their family heritage and likely their proven faithfulness.
I Chronicles 26:13 states that they cast lots to determine their specific assignments. This practice might seem random, but it reveals a deeper truth about God's sovereignty. As Proverbs 16:33 reminds us, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." Even in the casting of lots, God's providential hand guides the outcome. This reinforces the idea that every role, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is divinely appointed and contributes to the overall purpose of God's plan.
The presence of guards stationed at every watch (I Chronicles 26:16) emphasizes the continuous nature of service to God. The temple was envisioned as a place of perpetual worship, functioning twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. This reminds us that worshiping God is not confined to a specific time or place; it is a full-time commitment that permeates every aspect of our lives.
Treasurers and Judges: Stewards of Resources and Justice (I Chronicles 26:20-32)
Beyond the gatekeepers, I Chronicles 26 also highlights the roles of Levites in managing the temple treasuries (I Chronicles 26:20) and serving as officers and judges over Israel (I Chronicles 26:29). This demonstrates the multifaceted nature of Levitical service, encompassing not only religious duties but also administrative and judicial responsibilities.
The Levites' responsibility for the treasuries underscores the importance of faithful stewardship of resources dedicated to God's work. They were entrusted with managing the temple's finances and ensuring that the offerings and donations were used appropriately.
Their role as officers and judges (I Chronicles 26:29) reflects the importance of godly leadership and just decision-making within the community. They were called upon to resolve disputes and administer justice according to God's law. This concept of God-appointed spiritual leaders rendering decisions for His people is echoed in Paul's rebuke of the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 6:1-8. Paul questioned the Corinthian believers' practice of taking their disputes to secular courts instead of resolving them within the church community. While civil government has its place, Paul emphasizes the importance of addressing church matters within the church, guided by godly wisdom and biblical principles.
I Chronicles 26 provides a rich tapestry of roles and responsibilities within the Levitical order. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, diligence, and the recognition of God's providential hand in all aspects of service. This chapter challenges us to consider how we can faithfully serve God in our own lives, whether in seemingly small or significant ways, recognizing that every role is valuable and contributes to the greater purpose of His kingdom. Just as the gatekeepers guarded the temple entrances, we are called to guard our hearts and minds, ensuring that they remain open to God's presence and influence. Just as the treasurers managed the temple's resources, we are called to be faithful stewards of the gifts and talents that God has entrusted to us. And just as the judges administered justice, we are called to live with integrity and fairness in all our dealings with others.
Concerning the divisions of the porters: Of the Korhites was Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph.
And the sons of Meshelemiah were, Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth,
Elam the fifth, Jehohanan the sixth, Elioenai the seventh.
Moreover the sons of Obed–edom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,
Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God blessed him.
Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they were mighty men of valour.
The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.
All these of the sons of Obed–edom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obed–edom.
And Meshelemiah had sons and brethren, strong men, eighteen.
Also Hosah, of the children of Merari, had sons; Simri the chief, (for though he was not the firstborn, yet his father made him the chief;)
Hilkiah the second, Tebaliah the third, Zechariah the fourth: all the sons and brethren of Hosah were thirteen.
Among these were the divisions of the porters, even among the chief men, having wards one against another, to minister in the house of the Lord.
And they cast lots, as well the small as the great, according to the house of their fathers, for every gate.
And the lot eastward fell to Shelemiah. Then for Zechariah his son, a wise counsellor, they cast lots; and his lot came out northward.
To Obed–edom southward; and to his sons the house of Asuppim.
To Shuppim and Hosah the lot came forth westward, with the gate Shallecheth, by the causeway of the going up, ward against ward.
Eastward were six Levites, northward four a day, southward four a day, and toward Asuppim two and two.
At Parbar westward, four at the causeway, and two at Parbar.
These are the divisions of the porters among the sons of Kore, and among the sons of Merari.
And of the Levites, Ahijah was over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things.
As concerning the sons of Laadan; the sons of the Gershonite Laadan, chief fathers, even of Laadan the Gershonite, were Jehieli.
The sons of Jehieli; Zetham, and Joel his brother, which were over the treasures of the house of the Lord.
Of the Amramites, and the Izharites, the Hebronites, and the Uzzielites:
And Shebuel the son of Gershom, the son of Moses, was ruler of the treasures.
And his brethren by Eliezer; Rehabiah his son, and Jeshaiah his son, and Joram his son, and Zichri his son, and Shelomith his son.
Which Shelomith and his brethren were over all the treasures of the dedicated things, which David the king, and the chief fathers, the captains over thousands and hundreds, and the captains of the host, had dedicated.
Out of the spoils won in battles did they dedicate to maintain the house of the Lord.
And all that Samuel the seer, and Saul the son of Kish, and Abner the son of Ner, and Joab the son of Zeruiah, had dedicated; and whosoever had dedicated any thing, it was under the hand of Shelomith, and of his brethren.
Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons were for the outward business over Israel, for officers and judges.
And of the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his brethren, men of valour, a thousand and seven hundred, were officers among them of Israel on this side Jordan westward in all the business of the Lord, and in the service of the king.
Among the Hebronites was Jerijah the chief, even among the Hebronites, according to the generations of his fathers. In the fortieth year of the reign of David they were sought for, and there were found among them mighty men of valour at Jazer of Gilead.
And his brethren, men of valour, were two thousand and seven hundred chief fathers, whom king David made rulers over the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, for every matter pertaining to God, and affairs of the king.
I Chronicles 26 details David's meticulous organization of the gatekeepers, treasurers, and other officials within the Levitical order, all in preparation for the future temple. This chapter provides a fascinating glimpse into the comprehensive planning that went into ensuring the smooth and secure operation of God's house. The careful assignment of duties, the emphasis on faithfulness, and the recognition of God's providential hand in even seemingly random events offer valuable lessons for us today.
The Gatekeepers: Guardians of Access (I Chronicles 26:1-19)
The chapter begins by focusing on the gatekeepers, a crucial security detail responsible for guarding the various entrances to the temple. Their role was not merely ceremonial; they were entrusted with protecting the sacred space from intrusion and ensuring proper order within the temple precincts. The fact that these gatekeepers were carefully selected highlights the importance of their position.
I Chronicles 26:1 mentions that these gatekeepers were from the sons of Korah and Merari. This lineage connects them to a history of service and dedication within the Levitical order. Their selection was not arbitrary; it was rooted in their family heritage and likely their proven faithfulness.
I Chronicles 26:13 states that they cast lots to determine their specific assignments. This practice might seem random, but it reveals a deeper truth about God's sovereignty. As Proverbs 16:33 reminds us, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." Even in the casting of lots, God's providential hand guides the outcome. This reinforces the idea that every role, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is divinely appointed and contributes to the overall purpose of God's plan.
The presence of guards stationed at every watch (I Chronicles 26:16) emphasizes the continuous nature of service to God. The temple was envisioned as a place of perpetual worship, functioning twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. This reminds us that worshiping God is not confined to a specific time or place; it is a full-time commitment that permeates every aspect of our lives.
Treasurers and Judges: Stewards of Resources and Justice (I Chronicles 26:20-32)
Beyond the gatekeepers, I Chronicles 26 also highlights the roles of Levites in managing the temple treasuries (I Chronicles 26:20) and serving as officers and judges over Israel (I Chronicles 26:29). This demonstrates the multifaceted nature of Levitical service, encompassing not only religious duties but also administrative and judicial responsibilities.
The Levites' responsibility for the treasuries underscores the importance of faithful stewardship of resources dedicated to God's work. They were entrusted with managing the temple's finances and ensuring that the offerings and donations were used appropriately.
Their role as officers and judges (I Chronicles 26:29) reflects the importance of godly leadership and just decision-making within the community. They were called upon to resolve disputes and administer justice according to God's law. This concept of God-appointed spiritual leaders rendering decisions for His people is echoed in Paul's rebuke of the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 6:1-8. Paul questioned the Corinthian believers' practice of taking their disputes to secular courts instead of resolving them within the church community. While civil government has its place, Paul emphasizes the importance of addressing church matters within the church, guided by godly wisdom and biblical principles.
I Chronicles 26 provides a rich tapestry of roles and responsibilities within the Levitical order. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, diligence, and the recognition of God's providential hand in all aspects of service. This chapter challenges us to consider how we can faithfully serve God in our own lives, whether in seemingly small or significant ways, recognizing that every role is valuable and contributes to the greater purpose of His kingdom. Just as the gatekeepers guarded the temple entrances, we are called to guard our hearts and minds, ensuring that they remain open to God's presence and influence. Just as the treasurers managed the temple's resources, we are called to be faithful stewards of the gifts and talents that God has entrusted to us. And just as the judges administered justice, we are called to live with integrity and fairness in all our dealings with others.