April 2, 2023 - 1 Chronicles 1-9 (maybe just a quick perusal)

Always, for me, after finishing Samuel and Kings, I struggle just a bit to get through Chronicles, which is, in many ways, a repeating of the history found in the former two. But Chronicles is also different. There is a strong focus on genealogical matters. In fact, the first nine chapters are all chronology from Adam to Saul. Thereafter, all of 1 Chronicles tells the story of David's reign, and all the rest of the history of the monarchy is told in 2 Chronicles.

1 Chronicles, with its presentation of the genealogies, provides an intense focus on the historical family lines that converge in David. And this makes sense, for the story of the Bible, ultimately, is the story of the Messiah, who is the direct descendant of David, and before him, a descendant of Adam. He is the very one foretold in Genesis 3:15, a descendant of Adam and Eve, who would defeat Satan and sin and death. I know these sorts of detailed genealogies can be difficult for us and, so, maybe, this morning, just a quick perusal of these chapters while reflecting on the story that has gotten us here and the story yet to come. It’s an amazing story, and one that never gets old.

Tell me the story slowly,

That I may take it in -

That wonderful redemption,

God’s remedy for sin.

Tell me the story often,

For I forget so soon;

The early dew of morning

Has passed away at noon.

Tell me the old, old story;

Tell me the old, old story,

Tell me the old, old story

Of Jesus and His love. -- Kate Hankey (1868)