1 Chronicles 24:7
The first lot fell to Jehoiarib, the second to Jedaiah,
The first lot fell to Jehoiarib
The phrase "the first lot" indicates the method of selection used for the priestly divisions, which was by casting lots. This practice, deeply rooted in Hebrew tradition, was seen as a way to discern God's will, as Proverbs 16:33 suggests, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." The name "Jehoiarib" means "Yahweh contends" or "Yahweh pleads," reflecting a deep connection to God. Historically, Jehoiarib was the head of one of the twenty-four priestly divisions established by King David. This division was significant, as it was the first, symbolizing a place of honor and responsibility in the service of the temple. The use of lots underscores the belief in divine sovereignty and order in the organization of temple service.

the second to Jedaiah
The phrase "the second" indicates the sequential order of the priestly divisions. "Jedaiah" means "Yahweh has known" or "Yahweh knows," suggesting a personal and intimate relationship with God. This name reflects the assurance of being known and chosen by God for a specific purpose. Historically, Jedaiah's division was also part of the twenty-four groups of priests, each serving in the temple at appointed times. The mention of Jedaiah highlights the continuity and structure within the priestly system, ensuring that worship and sacrifices were conducted in an orderly manner. This organization reflects the importance of maintaining a sacred rhythm in the life of the community, emphasizing the value of each division's role in the larger framework of worship.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jehoiarib
The first priestly division chosen by lot. Jehoiarib is significant as the head of the first of the twenty-four priestly divisions established by King David. This division was responsible for serving in the temple, highlighting the importance of orderly worship and service to God.

2. Jedaiah
The second priestly division. Like Jehoiarib, Jedaiah's division was chosen by lot to serve in the temple. This reflects the organized structure of temple service and the shared responsibility among the priests.

3. The Casting of Lots
A method used to determine the order of service among the priestly divisions. This practice underscores the belief in divine sovereignty, as the outcome was seen as God's will.

4. King David
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, David's role in organizing the priestly divisions is crucial. His leadership ensured that worship in the temple was conducted in an orderly and God-honoring manner.

5. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites. The organization of the priestly divisions was essential for maintaining the temple's function as a place of continual worship and sacrifice.
Teaching Points
Divine Order and Structure
God values order and structure in worship. The division of priests into specific groups for service reflects the importance of organized worship and the need for each person to fulfill their role faithfully.

Sovereignty of God
The casting of lots demonstrates God's sovereignty in decision-making. Believers can trust that God is in control of all aspects of life, including the seemingly random events.

Shared Responsibility in Ministry
The division of priestly duties illustrates the concept of shared responsibility in ministry. Each believer has a role to play in the body of Christ, contributing to the overall mission of the Church.

Historical Continuity of Worship
The priestly divisions show the continuity of worship practices from the Old Testament to the New Testament, reminding us of the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the organization of the priestly divisions in 1 Chronicles 24:7 reflect God's desire for order in worship, and how can this be applied to modern church practices?

2. In what ways does the casting of lots in the Old Testament demonstrate trust in God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this trust in our decision-making today?

3. How does the concept of shared responsibility among the priestly divisions inform our understanding of teamwork and collaboration within the Church?

4. What lessons can we learn from the continuity of worship practices from the Old Testament to the New Testament, and how does this continuity strengthen our faith?

5. How can we identify and fulfill our unique roles within the body of Christ, similar to the specific roles assigned to the priestly divisions?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Chronicles 23
Provides context for the organization of the Levites and priests, showing David's role in establishing the divisions.

Exodus 28
Describes the priestly garments and duties, emphasizing the sacred role of the priests.

Luke 1:5-9
Mentions Zechariah, a priest of the division of Abijah, highlighting the continuation of the priestly divisions into the New Testament era.

Proverbs 16:33
Discusses the casting of lots, reinforcing the belief that God controls the outcome.
Aaronites and Descendants of LeviF. Whitfield 1 Chronicles 24, 25
People
Aaron, Abiathar, Abihu, Abijah, Ahimelech, Amariah, Amram, Aphses, Beno, Bilgah, David, Delaiah, Eder, Eleazar, Eliashib, Ezekiel, Gamul, Hakkoz, Harim, Hezir, Huppah, Ibri, Immer, Isshiah, Ithamar, Izharites, Jaaziah, Jachin, Jahath, Jahaziel, Jakim, Jedaiah, Jehdeiah, Jehezekel, Jehoiarib, Jekameam, Jerahmeel, Jeriah, Jerijah, Jerimoth, Jeshebeab, Jeshua, Jeshuah, Jizharites, Kish, Levi, Levites, Maaziah, Mahli, Malchijah, Merari, Micah, Michah, Mijamin, Mushi, Nadab, Nethaneel, Pethahiah, Rehabiah, Seorim, Shamir, Shecaniah, Shelomoth, Shemaiah, Shoham, Shubael, Uzziel, Zaccur, Zadok, Zechariah
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Fell, Forth, Jedaiah, Jedai'ah, Jehoiarib, Jehoi'arib, Lot
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 24:5

     7392   lots, casting of
     8345   servanthood, and worship

Library
Annunciation to Zacharias of the Birth of John the Baptist.
(at Jerusalem. Probably b.c. 6.) ^C Luke I. 5-25. ^c 5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judæa [a Jewish proselyte, an Idumæan or Edomite by birth, founder of the Herodian family, king of Judæa from b.c. 40 to a.d. 4, made such by the Roman Senate on the recommendation of Mark Antony and Octavius Cæsar], a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course [David divided the priests into twenty-four bodies or courses, each course serving in rotation one week in the temple
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian Hastened his Journey to Rome; but Titus his Son Returned to Jerusalem.
1. And now, when Vespasian had given answers to the embassages, and had disposed of the places of power justly, [25] and according to every one's deserts, he came to Antioch, and consulting which way he had best take, he preferred to go for Rome, rather than to march to Alexandria, because he saw that Alexandria was sure to him already, but that the affairs at Rome were put into disorder by Vitellius; so he sent Mucianus to Italy, and committed a considerable army both of horsemen and footmen to
Flavius Josephus—The Wars of the Jews or History of the Destruction of Jerusalem

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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