1 Chronicles 26:7

Shemaiah's sons were Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad; his brothers were Elihu and Semachiah, also capable men.

Study Bible

Shemaiah’s sons were Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad;
Shemaiah is a descendant of Obed-Edom, a Levite, whose family was entrusted with the care of the Ark of the Covenant. The mention of his sons highlights the continuation of a faithful lineage. Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad are not widely known figures in the Bible, but their inclusion signifies the importance of family roles in temple service. The names themselves carry meanings that reflect God's attributes or actions: Othni means "my strength," Rephael means "God has healed," Obed means "servant," and Elzabad means "God has given." These names may reflect the character or aspirations of the family.

his brothers were Elihu and Semachiah,
Elihu and Semachiah are noted as brothers, indicating a close-knit family structure that was typical in ancient Israelite society. The mention of brothers alongside sons suggests a broader family involvement in temple duties. Elihu means "He is my God," and Semachiah means "Yahweh has sustained." These names again emphasize a strong connection to faith and divine support, which was crucial for those serving in the temple.

also capable men.
The phrase "capable men" underscores the qualifications necessary for those serving in the temple. It implies not only physical ability but also spiritual and moral integrity. In the context of 1 Chronicles, being capable often included skills in leadership, administration, and worship. This mirrors the New Testament qualifications for church leaders, such as those found in 1 Timothy 3, where character and ability are emphasized. The capability of these men would have been essential for maintaining the sanctity and order of temple worship, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God equipping His people for service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shemaiah
A Levite, whose sons were appointed as gatekeepers in the temple. His lineage is noted for their capability and service.

2. Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad
Sons of Shemaiah, recognized for their roles and capabilities in temple service.

3. Elihu and Semachiah
Brothers of Shemaiah's sons, also described as capable men, indicating a family known for their strength and reliability in service.

4. Gatekeepers
The role these men were appointed to, which involved guarding the entrances to the temple, ensuring the sanctity and order of worship.

5. Temple Service
The broader context of their roles, emphasizing the importance of dedication and capability in serving God’s house.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Family Legacy in Faith
Shemaiah's family is noted for their capability and dedication. This highlights the impact of a godly legacy and the importance of raising children in the faith.

Diversity of Roles in God’s Service
Just as Shemaiah's sons had specific roles, every believer has a unique place in the body of Christ. Recognizing and valuing diverse gifts is crucial for the church's health.

Faithfulness in Assigned Duties
The role of gatekeepers, though seemingly mundane, was vital. This teaches us that every task in God’s service, no matter how small, is significant and should be performed with diligence.

Strength and Capability in Service
The description of these men as "capable" emphasizes the need for strength and preparedness in serving God. Spiritual readiness and capability are essential for effective ministry.

The Honor of Serving in God’s House
Serving in the temple was a privilege. Today, serving in the church or community should be viewed as an honor, reflecting our love and commitment to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the legacy of Shemaiah’s family inspire you to cultivate a godly heritage in your own family?

2. In what ways can you identify and utilize your unique gifts and capabilities in serving your church community?

3. Reflect on a seemingly small task you perform regularly. How can you approach it with the same diligence and faithfulness as the gatekeepers?

4. What steps can you take to strengthen your spiritual readiness and capability for service in God’s kingdom?

5. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of honor and privilege in your current roles within the church or community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 9:17-27
Provides a broader context of the duties and responsibilities of gatekeepers, highlighting their importance in maintaining the temple's sanctity.

Psalm 84:10
Expresses the psalmist's desire to be a doorkeeper in the house of God, underscoring the honor and privilege associated with this role.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11
Discusses the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, paralleling the various roles and capabilities of Shemaiah's sons in temple service.