who won a name
In ancient Israel, earning a name was synonymous with gaining honor and reputation. Benaiah's achievements in battle and his loyalty to David earned him a distinguished place among the elite warriors. This phrase underscores the cultural importance of legacy and honor in biblical times, where one's deeds were often commemorated in oral and written traditions. Benaiah's reputation was not only a personal accolade but also contributed to the collective memory and identity of the nation of Israel.

along with the three mighty men
The "three mighty men" refers to a select group of David's warriors known for their extraordinary feats. These men were part of a larger group called "David's Mighty Warriors" or "The Thirty," who were renowned for their courage and skill in battle. The mention of Benaiah alongside these warriors indicates his exceptional status and valor. This group is often compared to the elite military units of other ancient cultures, emphasizing the strategic and tactical prowess required to secure and maintain the kingdom. Benaiah's inclusion among them highlights his significant contributions to David's military successes and the stability of his reign.

– Scripture has just detailed Benaiah’s deeds: “He struck down two champions of Moab… He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion. And he struck down an Egyptian… with his own spear” (1 Chronicles 11:22–23; cf. 2 Samuel 23:20–21).

– Each act displays courageous faith that trusts the Lord in impossible situations, echoing Joshua 1:9 and Psalm 27:1.

– God often highlights specific “exploits” to remind His people that bold obedience glorifies Him (Hebrews 11:32–34).

– Benaiah’s name means “Yahweh has built,” and his father Jehoiada was a priest, placing him in a heritage of worship and service (1 Chronicles 27:5–6).

– He later commanded David’s bodyguard (2 Samuel 8:18) and eventually became commander of the army under Solomon (1 Kings 2:35), showing that steadfast character opens doors for greater responsibility (Luke 16:10).

– His life illustrates Psalm 112:1–2: the righteous man’s descendants are “mighty in the land.”

– “A good name is more desirable than great riches” (Proverbs 22:1). Benaiah earned lasting honor through faithfulness rather than self-promotion.

– God delights to exalt the humble (1 Peter 5:6); just as David’s reputation grew (1 Samuel 18:30), Benaiah’s name became synonymous with courage and loyalty (1 Kings 1:36-38).

– True renown springs from obedience, mirroring how the Lord ultimately exalted Jesus “and gave Him the name above every name” (Philippians 2:9).

– “The Three” (Jashobeam, Eleazar, Shammah; 1 Chronicles 11:11-14) formed David’s most elite warriors. Benaiah’s feats placed him in their company though not counted among them (vv. 25).

– God recognizes different levels of gifting while valuing every faithful servant (Romans 12:4-8). Benaiah’s proximity to “the Three” shows that wholehearted devotion can elevate any believer to extraordinary usefulness (Matthew 20:26-27).

– His story encourages us to serve where God stations us, trusting Him to apportion honor (1 Corinthians 4:5).

1 Chronicles 11:24 spotlights Benaiah as a man whose daring deeds, priestly heritage, earned reputation, and association with David’s finest warriors flowed from unwavering faith in the Lord. The verse assures readers that God records and rewards courageous obedience, calling every believer to live so faithfully that our own “exploits” honor His name.