1 Chronicles 23:17

The descendants of Eliezer: Rehabiah was the first. Eliezer did not have any other sons, but the sons of Rehabiah were very numerous.

Study Bible

The descendants of Eliezer:
Eliezer was one of the sons of Moses, the great leader and prophet of Israel. This lineage highlights the continuation of Moses' family line, emphasizing the importance of priestly and Levitical roles in Israel's religious life. Eliezer's descendants were part of the Levites, who were set apart for service in the tabernacle and later the temple. This connection underscores the enduring legacy of Moses' family in the spiritual leadership of Israel.

Rehabiah was the first.
Rehabiah, as the firstborn, would have held a position of prominence and responsibility within his family. In ancient Israelite culture, the firstborn son often received a double portion of the inheritance and was expected to lead the family. This mention signifies the continuation of Eliezer's line through Rehabiah, ensuring the family's ongoing contribution to the Levitical duties.

Eliezer did not have any other sons,
This detail highlights the unique position of Rehabiah as the sole heir of Eliezer. In biblical narratives, the absence of multiple sons can sometimes indicate a special divine purpose or blessing on the single heir. It also emphasizes the importance of Rehabiah's role in carrying on the family name and responsibilities.

but the sons of Rehabiah were very numerous.
The numerous descendants of Rehabiah suggest a fulfillment of God's promises of fruitfulness and multiplication to His people. This abundance can be seen as a blessing, ensuring that the Levitical duties and the spiritual heritage of Moses' family would continue robustly. It also reflects the growth and expansion of the Levitical families, which was necessary for the increasing needs of temple service as Israel's population grew.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eliezer
A son of Moses, Eliezer is mentioned here as the father of Rehabiah. His lineage is significant in the Levitical priesthood.

2. Rehabiah
The son of Eliezer, noted as the chief and having many descendants. His numerous offspring highlight the continuation and expansion of Moses' lineage.

3. Moses
Though not directly mentioned in this verse, Moses is the patriarch of this line, and his legacy is carried on through his descendants.

4. Levitical Lineage
This passage is part of a larger context detailing the organization of the Levites, who were set apart for religious duties in Israel.

Teaching Points

Legacy of Faithfulness
The lineage of Eliezer through Rehabiah demonstrates the importance of a godly heritage. We are reminded to value and uphold the spiritual legacy passed down to us.

God's Provision and Multiplication
Despite Eliezer having only one son, God multiplied his lineage through Rehabiah. This teaches us that God can take what seems small and insignificant and turn it into something abundant.

Role of the Levites
The Levites were set apart for service to God, reminding us of our own call to be set apart for His purposes. We should consider how we can serve God in our daily lives.

Faithfulness in Small Beginnings
Eliezer's single son became the father of many. This encourages us to be faithful with what we have, trusting God to bring growth and increase.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Eliezer and Rehabiah reflect the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are passing down a godly heritage to the next generation?

3. How does the role of the Levites in the Old Testament relate to our role as believers today?

4. What are some areas in your life where you can trust God to bring multiplication and growth, even if the beginnings seem small?

5. How can we apply the principle of being set apart for God's service in our modern context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 18:4
This verse introduces Eliezer, Moses' son, and provides context for his role in the family lineage.

Numbers 3:32
This passage discusses the responsibilities of the Levites, to which Eliezer's descendants belonged, emphasizing their role in the service of the tabernacle.

1 Chronicles 26:25
This verse further elaborates on the descendants of Rehabiah, showing their continued importance in the Levitical duties.