Bible Pathways 05/13/2003
May 13
Read I Chronicles 6 -- 7
In Today's Reading:
Descendants of Levi; Temple singers and keepers appointed; descendants of Aaron; cities of the Levites; numerous genealogies
The long and seemingly uninteresting genealogy in these chapters reveals that God does not look on mankind as just a multitude of human beings who populate the earth. The name of every individual priest and Levite, along with the family and tribe he belonged to, was carefully registered. In gratitude for their spiritual leadership, the other tribes were given the responsibility of sustaining the Levites who lived within their communities through their tithes and offerings. We see a striking contrast in the character of the men mentioned in these chapters. Some were devoted to their God-given responsibilities, while others profaned their holy calling.
Of first consideration in this listing was the high priest, who was to be chosen only from the family of Aaron. Aaron, Eleazar, and Ithamar were devoted to their calling as priests, but Aaron's two oldest sons Nadab and Abihu were struck dead when they ignored the commandments of God. Samuel was a godly judge, but his two sons, Joel and Abijah, were evil. For years, Abiathar was a dedicated high priest, but later he became a traitor to David. As we look around us, we see some who, at first, seemed to be blessed with remarkable spiritual gifts like these five men; but, when tested, they forfeited their spiritual positions and opportunities.
Every Israelite returning from the Babylonian captivity was individually and carefully registered to ensure his participation in worship at the Temple. God is just as concerned to lead each of us as He was willing to lead the Israelites. Our names must be written in the Book of Life. The one who rejects the Word of God will not enter heaven, but only those written in the Lamb's Book of Life.
Devotional commentary also refers to: I Kings 1:5-7; 2:26-27; John 10:3; Ezra 2:2-63; Revelation 21:27.
Christ Revealed:
By the cities of refuge (see I Chronicles 6:57,67,69). For a person who accidentally kills someone to have protection from execution, he had to flee to a city of refuge. God provided His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to be our Refuge from His judgment against sin when, by faith, in obedience to His Word, we receive Christ as Savior and Lord of our lives (see John 3:14-18; 10:24-30; Galatians 2:16; 3:1-14; Hebrews 10:1-18; I John 2:2; Revelation 1:5).
Word Studies:
6:32 waited on = performed service in; 6:66 the residue = balance; 6:74 suburbs = pasturelands; 7:23 it went evil with = tragedy had happened to his family; 7:24 nether = lower.
Prayer Needs:
Staff: Ilene Wallace · Shirley Dobson, Chairman, 2003 National Day of Prayer · the International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Thomas & Mary Beaghen · Government Official: Rep. John Kasich (OH) · Country: Burkina Faso (11 million) in western Africa · Major languages: French and Sudanic tribal languages · Religious freedom · 48% Muslim; 33% belief in false gods, idolatry, and heathenism; 14% Roman Catholic; 5% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord's forgiveness with a repentant heart, knowing that God will graciously receive you (see Hosea 14:1-2).
Optional Reading: Romans 16
Memory Verse for the Week: Colossians 3:16
