How does 1 Chronicles 8:36 demonstrate God's faithfulness through genealogies? Setting the Scene 1 Chronicles 8 lists the descendants of Benjamin, Israel’s smallest tribe, ending with the line of King Saul. Verse 36 reads: “Ahaz fathered Jehoaddah. Jehoaddah fathered Alemeth, Azmaveth, and Zimri; and Zimri fathered Moza.” Why One Quiet Verse Matters • Every name is testimony that God kept Benjamin’s family alive through centuries of battles, exile, and near extinction (Judges 20; 2 Kings 17). • By preserving Saul’s line—even after his failure (1 Samuel 15)—God proves His covenant mercy (2 Samuel 7:15; Psalm 89:30-33). • The same list reappears after the exile (1 Chronicles 9:42), showing that captivity could not erase God’s promises. Threads of Faithfulness in the Genealogy • Continuity – From “Ahaz” to “Moza,” an unbroken chain declares that God “keeps His covenant to a thousand generations” (Deuteronomy 7:9). • Mercy after Failure – Saul sinned, yet the family line endures, illustrating Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed… His mercies never fail.” • Preservation of a Witness – Benjamin later gives Israel heroes like Mordecai (Esther 2:5) and, in the New Testament, Paul the apostle (Romans 11:1; Philippians 3:5). 1 Chronicles 8:36 is one link God used to bring those servants onto history’s stage. Covenant Echoes • Promise to Abraham—“Kings will come from you” (Genesis 17:6). Saul’s royal line shows fulfillment despite human weakness. • Blessing on Benjamin—“The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by Him” (Deuteronomy 33:12). Each name is evidence that the blessing held. Take-Home Encouragement • God notices individuals; He writes their names in His book (Malachi 3:16). • He preserves His plans through ordinary families, proving “The counsel of the LORD stands forever” (Psalm 33:11). • If He guarded Ahaz, Jehoaddah, and Moza, He will guard every believer grafted into His family (John 10:28-29). |
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