1 Chronicles 26:4

And Obed-edom also had sons: Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, Sachar the fourth, Nethanel the fifth,

Study Bible

And Obed-edom also had sons:
Obed-edom is a significant figure in the Old Testament, known for his role as a gatekeeper and for housing the Ark of the Covenant. His name means "servant of Edom," which may indicate a connection to the region or people of Edom. The mention of his sons highlights the importance of family lineage and the continuation of service to God through generations. Obed-edom's household was blessed by God, as seen in 2 Samuel 6:11, which underscores the theme of divine favor upon those who honor God's presence.

Shemaiah the firstborn:
Shemaiah, meaning "heard by Yahweh," is the firstborn son, which in biblical times carried significant weight in terms of inheritance and leadership within the family. The firstborn often had a special role in spiritual and familial responsibilities. This name suggests a life dedicated to listening to and following God's will, a trait that would be essential for those serving in the temple.

Jehozabad the second:
Jehozabad means "Yahweh has bestowed." This name reflects a recognition of God's provision and blessing. In the context of temple service, it emphasizes the understanding that all roles and responsibilities are gifts from God. The name also appears in other parts of the Bible, such as in 2 Kings 12:21, where Jehozabad is one of the servants who conspired against King Joash, indicating the name's recurrence in various historical contexts.

Joah the third:
Joah means "Yahweh is brother." This name suggests a close relationship with God, akin to familial ties. It implies a sense of community and brotherhood among those who serve in the temple. Joah is a name that appears in other biblical contexts, such as in 2 Kings 18:18, where Joah is a recorder during King Hezekiah's reign, indicating a role of responsibility and trust.

Sachar the fourth:
Sachar means "wages" or "reward." This name may symbolize the rewards of faithful service to God. In the context of temple duties, it could imply that those who serve God will receive their due reward, both spiritually and materially. The concept of divine recompense is a recurring theme in the Bible, as seen in passages like Hebrews 11:6, which speaks of God rewarding those who earnestly seek Him.

Nethanel the fifth:
Nethanel means "given by God." This name underscores the belief that children are a gift from God, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture. It also highlights the idea that roles and responsibilities in the service of God are divinely appointed. Nethanel is a name that appears in various genealogies and lists of leaders, such as in Numbers 1:8, where Nethanel is a leader of the tribe of Issachar, indicating a legacy of leadership and service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Obed-edom
A Levite who was entrusted with the Ark of the Covenant. His household was blessed by God during the time the Ark was in his care.

2. Shemaiah
The firstborn son of Obed-edom, indicating a position of leadership and responsibility within the family.

3. Jehozabad
The second son of Obed-edom, part of the lineage that served in the temple.

4. Joah
The third son, contributing to the family’s legacy of service.

5. Sacar and Nethanel
The fourth and fifth sons, respectively, each playing a role in the Levitical duties.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Service
Obed-edom and his sons exemplify the importance of faithfully serving God. Their dedication led to blessings, showing that God honors those who serve Him with sincerity.

Generational Blessings
The passage highlights how the faithfulness of one generation can impact the next. Obed-edom's faithfulness resulted in his sons being involved in temple service, illustrating the concept of generational blessings.

Leadership and Responsibility
As the firstborn, Shemaiah had a special role, reminding us of the responsibilities that come with leadership positions in our families and communities.

God’s Presence Brings Blessing
The presence of the Ark in Obed-edom’s house brought blessings, symbolizing how God’s presence in our lives leads to spiritual and sometimes material blessings.

Diversity in Service
Each son had a role, showing that there are diverse ways to serve God. This encourages us to find our unique place in God’s work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Obed-edom and his sons encourage us to be faithful in our service to God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our faith positively impacts the next generation, as seen in the family of Obed-edom?

3. What responsibilities come with leadership in our families or church communities, and how can we fulfill them faithfully?

4. How can we cultivate an awareness of God’s presence in our daily lives, and what blessings might this bring?

5. Reflect on the different roles within your church or community. How can you contribute uniquely to God’s work, similar to the sons of Obed-edom?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 13:14
This verse describes how the Ark of the Covenant was kept in the house of Obed-edom, and the Lord blessed his household. This connection highlights the faithfulness and blessing associated with Obed-edom's family.

2 Samuel 6:11
Similar to 1 Chronicles 13:14, this passage also recounts the blessing upon Obed-edom's household due to the presence of the Ark.

Psalm 84:10
This verse speaks to the joy and blessing of serving in the house of the Lord, which can be related to the service of Obed-edom and his sons.