1 Chronicles 2:13

Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn; Abinadab was born second, Shimea third,

Study Bible

Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn;
Jesse, a significant figure in the lineage of King David, is introduced here as the father of Eliab. Jesse lived in Bethlehem, a town with deep historical and prophetic significance, as it is the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah (Micah 5:2). Eliab, as the firstborn, would traditionally hold a place of prominence and responsibility in the family. However, despite his stature and appearance, God chose David, the youngest, to be king, illustrating the biblical theme that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7).

Abinadab was born second,
Abinadab, the second son of Jesse, is mentioned in the context of the anointing of David. Like Eliab, Abinadab was passed over by God when Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:8). This highlights the divine selection process that defies human expectations and emphasizes God's sovereignty in choosing leaders. Abinadab also participated in the battle against the Philistines, where David famously defeated Goliath (1 Samuel 17:13).

Shimea third,
Shimea, also known as Shammah in some biblical texts (1 Samuel 16:9), is the third son of Jesse. His mention in the genealogical record underscores the importance of family lineage in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Davidic line. The listing of Jesse's sons serves to establish the historical and familial background of David, Israel's greatest king, and ultimately points to the messianic lineage culminating in Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the "Son of David" (Matthew 1:1).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesse
Jesse is the father of King David and is a significant figure in the lineage of Jesus Christ. He lived in Bethlehem and is often referred to as "Jesse the Bethlehemite."

2. Eliab
Eliab is the firstborn son of Jesse. He was present when the prophet Samuel came to anoint one of Jesse's sons as king, but God chose David instead.

3. Abinadab
Abinadab is the second son of Jesse. He, like Eliab, was passed over by God when Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel.

4. Shimea
Shimea, also known as Shammah, is the third son of Jesse. He was also present during the anointing of David.

5. Bethlehem
The town where Jesse and his family lived. It is significant as the birthplace of both King David and Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Choice
God's selection of David over his brothers reminds us that God's criteria for leadership and service often differ from human expectations. We should seek to align our values with God's.

The Importance of Family Lineage
The genealogies in the Bible, including Jesse's family, underscore the importance of family heritage in God's redemptive plan. We should value our spiritual heritage and pass it on to future generations.

Humility in Service
Despite being overlooked initially, David's humility and faithfulness in serving God led to his anointing as king. We should serve faithfully in whatever capacity God places us, trusting in His timing.

God's Plan in Ordinary Lives
Jesse and his sons were ordinary people, yet they played a crucial role in God's plan. This encourages us to recognize that God can use our ordinary lives for extraordinary purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jesse's sons being passed over for kingship challenge our understanding of leadership and God's criteria for choosing leaders?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence in the genealogies of the Bible, and how does this encourage us in our personal walk with God?

3. How can we apply the lesson of humility from David's anointing to our own lives and ministries today?

4. What role does family heritage play in your spiritual life, and how can you contribute to the spiritual heritage of your family?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt overlooked or undervalued. How can the account of David's anointing encourage you to trust in God's timing and purpose for your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16:1-13
This passage describes the event where Samuel anoints David as king, highlighting the rejection of Eliab, Abinadab, and Shimea in favor of David.

Matthew 1:5-6
This genealogy of Jesus Christ includes Jesse and David, emphasizing the Messianic line.

Ruth 4:17-22
This genealogy traces the lineage from Perez to David, showing the providential hand of God in history.