What can we learn from the mention of sons in 1 Chronicles 4:7? Setting the Verse “1 Chronicles 4:7: ‘The sons of Helah were Zereth, Zohar, Ethnan, and Koz.’” Why God Lists These Four Sons • Scripture never wastes words (2 Timothy 3:16). • Every name proves God notices individual people, not just famous figures (Isaiah 43:1). • Genealogies preserve tribal identity and protect the messianic line (Ruth 4:18-22; Luke 3:23-38). What the Names Suggest While certainty on Hebrew etymology varies, most scholars agree on broad ideas: 1. Zereth – “splendor” or “golden” 2. Zohar – “brightness” or “dawning light” 3. Ethnan – “gift” or “reward” 4. Koz – “thorn” or “strength” Together they hint at a family testimony: • God clothes His people in splendor (Zereth) – Psalm 90:17. • He calls them to shine (Zohar) – Matthew 5:16. • Children are His generous gift (Ethnan) – Psalm 127:3. • Even hardship (Koz, a thorn) can forge strength – 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Helah’s Quiet Influence • Helah is one of the few women named amid the sons, underscoring the value God places on mothers in covenant history (Proverbs 31:28-29). • Her name means “rustling” or possibly “cloth,” suggesting nurture and covering—a picture of a godly household. Lessons for Our Families Today • God records ordinary people; He sees you and your children just as clearly (Psalm 139:1-3). • Name your children—literally or figuratively—with faith-filled expectations of splendor, light, and gifted purpose. • Accept “thorns” as part of God’s shaping work; difficulties can produce endurance (James 1:2-4). • Pass on spiritual heritage intentionally; genealogies remind us the faith is always one generation from extinction (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Tracing the Promise Forward • Every Chronicle entry whispers of the coming Messiah. These obscure sons helped preserve Judah’s tribal record so that Jesus could be publicly identified as the rightful King (Revelation 5:5). • Because their names were kept, we can be sure ours are secure in the Lamb’s book of life when we trust Him (Philippians 4:3). Bringing It Home • Remember: God delights to inscribe ordinary names in His eternal story. • Live so your family’s “genealogy” points others to Christ’s splendor, light, gift, and strength. |
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