1 Chronicles 26:24

Shebuel, a descendant of Gershom son of Moses, was the officer in charge of the treasuries.

Study Bible

Shebuel
The name "Shebuel" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "captive of God" or "returned of God." This name reflects a deep spiritual heritage, suggesting a life dedicated to divine service. In the context of 1 Chronicles, Shebuel's role as a leader in charge of the treasuries indicates a position of trust and responsibility. His name serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and integrity in managing God's resources.

a descendant of Gershom
Gershom was the firstborn son of Moses, and his name means "a stranger there," reflecting Moses' own experience of being a foreigner in a strange land. The mention of Shebuel as a descendant of Gershom highlights the continuity of God's covenantal promises through generations. It underscores the importance of family lineage and the transmission of faith and duty from one generation to the next.

son of Moses
Moses is one of the most significant figures in the Bible, known as the lawgiver and leader who brought the Israelites out of Egypt. By identifying Shebuel as a descendant of Moses, the text emphasizes the esteemed heritage and the spiritual legacy that Shebuel inherits. This connection to Moses serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of a godly heritage and the responsibility to uphold the values and teachings passed down through the family line.

was the officer in charge
The phrase "officer in charge" indicates a position of authority and oversight. In the context of the ancient Israelite community, this role would have required wisdom, discernment, and a strong sense of justice. It reflects the biblical principle that leadership is a form of stewardship, where one is accountable to God for the faithful management of resources and people.

of the treasuries
The treasuries in the temple were repositories for the wealth and offerings dedicated to God. Being in charge of the treasuries was a significant responsibility, as it involved managing the material resources that supported the worship and functioning of the temple. This role underscores the biblical theme of stewardship, where believers are called to manage God's blessings with integrity and faithfulness. It also highlights the importance of using resources for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shebuel
A descendant of Gershom, who was the son of Moses. Shebuel was appointed as the officer in charge of the treasuries, indicating a position of trust and responsibility within the Levitical order.

2. Gershom
The firstborn son of Moses and Zipporah. His lineage is significant as it connects Shebuel to the priestly and Levitical heritage, emphasizing the importance of family legacy in spiritual and administrative roles.

3. Moses
The great leader and prophet of Israel, who led the Israelites out of Egypt. His descendants, including Shebuel, held significant roles in the religious and administrative life of Israel.

4. Treasuries
These were the storerooms or places where the wealth and resources of the temple were kept. The management of these treasuries was crucial for the functioning of the temple and the support of the Levitical services.

Teaching Points

Legacy of Faithfulness
The role of Shebuel highlights the importance of a godly heritage and the responsibilities that come with it. We are called to honor the legacy of faith passed down to us and to steward it well.

Stewardship and Trust
Being in charge of the treasuries required integrity and trustworthiness. As Christians, we are stewards of the resources God has given us, and we must manage them with honesty and diligence.

Roles in God's Kingdom
Every role in God's kingdom, whether seen or unseen, is significant. Like Shebuel, we may be called to serve in various capacities, and each role contributes to the greater purpose of God's work.

Generational Impact
The mention of Shebuel as a descendant of Moses reminds us of the impact our lives can have on future generations. Our faithfulness today can influence the spiritual journey of those who come after us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Shebuel as the officer in charge of the treasuries reflect the importance of stewardship in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we honor the spiritual legacy of those who have gone before us, as seen in the lineage of Moses and Gershom?

3. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that we are trustworthy stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us?

4. How can understanding our spiritual heritage and lineage encourage us in our current roles and responsibilities within the church?

5. Reflect on a time when you were entrusted with a significant responsibility. How did your faith influence the way you handled that responsibility, and what lessons can you draw from Shebuel's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 2:22
This verse introduces Gershom, providing background on his birth and the meaning of his name, which reflects Moses' experience as a foreigner in a strange land.

Numbers 3:1-4
This passage outlines the genealogy of Moses and Aaron, establishing the Levitical lineage and the roles assigned to their descendants.

1 Chronicles 23:15-16
These verses provide additional context on the descendants of Moses, including Shebuel, and their roles in the temple service.