From the Tribes, to Saul and David - 1 Chronicles 6-12 - Bible Notes

Levites - 1 Chronicles 6

1. Text summary

Levi's tribe listed.  Some of them were designated to gatekeep, others to make music, and Aaron's descendants were to offer sacrifice.

Cities given to Levites throughout the land of Israel.

2. Jesus

Jesus was appointed by God to offer the ultimate sacrifice.  He was set apart to God's work in a special way that the rest of us were not.

3. Application

a. Honor those called to serve in the church, as musicians, deacons, and worship leaders.

Fighting Tribes - 1 Chronicles 7

1. Text summary

Issachar, Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher listed.

These are warrior tribes.  Joshua comes from Ephraim.

2. Jesus

Jesus wars Himself (Rev. 19), and has warrior brothers who help Him, as King David had his mighty men.

3. Application

a. Our cynical age would call them "cannon fodder," but they play an important role in God's economy.

Benjamin, to Saul - 1 Chronicles 8

1. Text summary

We branch off to Benjamin's tribe, down to (and through) Saul.

2. Jesus

Jesus does not cut off and wipe out the memory of those in His family who betray Him.  Saul certainly did, but his family were notable warriors whom He commends.

3. Application

a. Don't disdain whole families for the folly of some individuals.

Returning Exiles - 1 Chronicles 9

1. Text summary

The first returned exiles to Jerusalem listed.
Temple gatekeepers, bakers and musicians listed.

Saul's genealogy is repeated.

2. Jesus

Jesus' household is restored from ravaging sin.

3. Application

a. Not sure of the point of Saul's repeated genealogy.  Perhaps to reinforce the royal line that has not fallen?  But it is David's line we focus on...

b. We each have our appointed place among God's people: security, food, music, etc.

Saul's Downfall - 1 Chronicles 10

1. Text summary

The Chronicler picks up the story of Israel at Saul's downfall (end of 1 Samuel).

He fell because he "broke faith" with God.

2. Jesus

Jesus' household includes some, even leaders, who turn against Him.

3. Application

a. Judas comes to mind, here.  He sought his own glory and wealth at the expense of the Christ.  Even as we all often do.

David Takes Jerusalem - 1 Chronicles 11

1. Text summary

David becomes king and takes Jerusalem.

His mighty men and their deeds recounted, Uriah the Hittite among them.

2. Jesus

Jesus' reign is foreshadowed here.  He has many faithful followers who fight successfully.

3. Application

a. Be careful not to make rash promises when you are desperate.  David does this, and gives too much power to Joab.

David's Mighty Men - 1 Chronicles 12

1. Text summary

Israel goes over to David.  Many from various tribes are listed and numbered.

2. Jesus

Jesus' kingdom increases throughout the course of history.

3. Application

a. While the ungodly sit on their thrones, God continually renews the city of God  through conversion and repentance, by His Spirit.