1 Chronicles 26:4 – “Obed-Edom also had sons: Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, Sakar the fourth, and Nethanel the fifth.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse introduces us to the sons of Obed-Edom, a faithful servant of God who also served as a gatekeeper in the temple. The names of his five sons—Shemaiah, Jehozabad, Joah, Sakar, and Nethanel—are listed in order of birth. Obed-Edom’s family is another example of a household dedicated to temple service, just like Meshelemiah’s family in the earlier verses of this chapter.
Obed-Edom is known in the Bible for keeping the Ark of the Covenant in his house for a period of time and being richly blessed by God as a result (2 Samuel 6:11). His faithfulness in that role seems to carry over to his sons, who now serve alongside him as gatekeepers, entrusted with the task of protecting and maintaining the sanctity of the temple.
Historical Context
Obed-Edom’s mention here as a gatekeeper is part of the larger organizational structure for the temple detailed in 1 Chronicles 26. This chapter outlines the responsibilities of the Levites and others who were tasked with the upkeep and security of the temple. Gatekeepers, such as Obed-Edom and his sons, were responsible for guarding the temple’s entrances, ensuring that only those who were clean and authorized could enter the sacred space.
Historically, Obed-Edom is first introduced during the time when King David was bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. When a mishap occurred during the transport, David had the Ark temporarily placed in Obed-Edom’s house. The Bible records that God blessed Obed-Edom and his household during the time the Ark was in his care (2 Samuel 6:11). This moment in Obed-Edom’s life may explain why he and his family are now serving faithfully in the temple.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes the generational faithfulness of families in God’s service. Just as Obed-Edom was blessed for his obedience and faithfulness, his sons now carry on that tradition of service in the temple. It highlights the importance of passing down faith and responsibilities within the family.
God’s blessings on Obed-Edom’s household remind us that faithfulness to God brings rewards, not necessarily in the form of material wealth, but in the privilege of serving Him and being entrusted with His work. It also shows that God’s work is not done in isolation but often involves families working together to fulfill His purposes.
Literary Analysis
This verse follows the typical structure of genealogical records found in 1 Chronicles. By listing the sons of Obed-Edom in order of birth, the writer emphasizes the continuity of family service within the temple. The listing of names shows that each individual was known and valued in God’s work. The repeated pattern of naming sons and their birth order reflects the theme of generational faithfulness and highlights the orderly structure of temple service, which was crucial to Israel’s worship.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Samuel 6:11: This verse records how the Ark of the Covenant stayed in the house of Obed-Edom, and how God blessed his household because of it. This background provides context for why Obed-Edom and his family are so devoted to temple service.
- Psalm 84:10: Written by the sons of Korah, this psalm celebrates the joy of serving in God’s house, even in a lowly position like being a gatekeeper: “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.”
- Proverbs 22:6: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” This verse speaks to the importance of training children in faith, much like Obed-Edom’s sons following in his footsteps of service to God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse is a reminder that God values faithful service, both individually and within families. It shows that when one generation is faithful to God, they can pass down that faith to the next. This challenges modern believers to think about how they are raising their children and what kind of spiritual legacy they are leaving. Involvement in God’s work isn’t limited to specific talents or high-profile roles; even the task of guarding the temple was seen as important in God’s eyes.
The example of Obed-Edom and his sons encourages us to involve our families in serving God, making it a central part of our lives. It also reminds us that God notices and blesses those who faithfully serve Him, regardless of the role they play.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse illustrates God’s loving nature by showing how He blesses faithfulness and honors those who serve Him. Obed-Edom’s household was blessed when the Ark was placed in his care, and now, his sons are serving in the temple. This continuity of blessing reflects God’s deep care for those who honor Him with their lives. It shows that God’s love extends to families and that He desires to work through households that are dedicated to Him.
It also reflects God’s personal attention to individuals—each son is mentioned by name, showing that God values and loves each one of us personally, recognizing even what may seem like small acts of service.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
In the New Testament, Jesus speaks often about the importance of faithful service, no matter how seemingly small or humble. Just as Obed-Edom’s sons served as gatekeepers, Jesus taught that greatness in God’s kingdom comes through serving others (Matthew 23:11). Jesus also emphasized the value of children and families in His ministry, welcoming them and blessing them (Matthew 19:14).
Obed-Edom’s family’s faithful service in guarding the temple can also be connected to the way Jesus guards the souls of His followers. Jesus is often referred to as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-15), and just as gatekeepers were tasked with protecting the temple, Jesus watches over His people, keeping them safe and guiding them toward eternal life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you follow the example of Obed-Edom by involving your family in serving God?
- What does this passage teach you about the importance of faithfulness in “small” roles, like being a gatekeeper?
- How does this verse challenge you to think about the spiritual legacy you are leaving for your children or those around you?
- How have you experienced God’s blessings when you have faithfully served Him, even in tasks that seemed unnoticed?
- How does the example of Obed-Edom and his family inspire you to serve God more fully in your daily life?