What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 16:38? Along with Obed-edom “along with Obed-edom …” (1 Chronicles 16:38) • The ark has just arrived in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 15:25–28; cf. 2 Samuel 6:12). David now staffs the tent with worship leaders—singers, musicians, and caretakers. • Obed-edom’s inclusion shows the king’s gratitude for the man whose home had sheltered the ark for three blessed months (2 Samuel 6:10-11). • God visibly honored Obed-edom’s faithfulness, so David immediately integrates him into permanent service (1 Chronicles 13:14; 26:4-5). Sixty-eight relatives “… and his sixty-eight relatives.” • Scripture highlights whole-family ministry: – Levitical clans often served together (Numbers 3:27-28; 1 Chronicles 23:24). – Obed-edom’s family later produces “sixty-two strong men” as gatekeepers (1 Chronicles 26:8), matching the scale noted here. • A united household around God’s presence underscores Deuteronomy 6:6-7—faith passed through generations. Obed-edom son of Jeduthun “Obed-edom son of Jeduthun …” • Identifying him with Jeduthun (also called Ethan) links Obed-edom to a well-known line of prophetic musicians (1 Chronicles 25:1-3; Psalm titles 39, 62, 77). • The verse affirms literal genealogy and continuity: Levites were assigned by family as God had commanded (Numbers 4:1-4). • Obed-edom serves in two capacities—musician (1 Chronicles 15:18, 21) and gatekeeper—reminding us God equips servants with multiple gifts (Romans 12:6-8). Hosah “… and also Hosah …” • Hosah is from the Merari branch of Levites (1 Chronicles 26:10). His presence beside Obed-edom shows cooperation between Levitical families (cf. Numbers 3:33-37). • Later, Hosah’s sons stand out for wisdom in assignments (1 Chronicles 26:11), echoing Proverbs 15:22 on shared counsel. Gatekeepers “… were to be gatekeepers.” • Gatekeepers guarded entrances to the tent, protected the sacred objects, and maintained order (1 Chronicles 9:17-27). • Their watchful ministry paralleled the priests’ offerings and the singers’ praise, illustrating 1 Corinthians 12:18—many roles, one body. • Spiritual lessons: – Vigilance: believers are called to “watch and pray” (Mark 14:38). – Holiness: only consecrated servants approached the ark (Hebrews 12:14). – Hospitality coupled with discernment: welcoming worshipers while keeping out defilement (Psalm 84:10). summary 1 Chronicles 16:38 records God-appointed service teams for the newly installed ark. Obed-edom—blessed host of God’s presence—continues his devotion, now joined by sixty-eight relatives and by Hosah. Their role as gatekeepers underscores familial faithfulness, cooperative ministry, and vigilant guardianship of what is holy. The verse invites believers today to serve together, use diverse gifts, and guard the presence of God in their midst. |
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