What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 1:18? Arphaxad was the father of Shelah “Arphaxad was the father of Shelah” (1 Chronicles 1:18) grounds the post-Flood narrative in a real, traceable family line. • Arphaxad, Shem’s third son (Genesis 10:22), was born “two years after the flood” (Genesis 11:10). • His placement ties the covenant faithfulness God showed to Noah directly to later promises given to Abraham. In Luke 3:36 this same name appears in Jesus’ genealogy, underscoring the continuity of God’s saving plan. • By recording Arphaxad literally fathering Shelah, Scripture affirms that every generation is known and counted by God; nothing in His plan is random. Shelah was the father of Eber “Shelah was the father of Eber” (1 Chronicles 1:18) extends the line one generation further and introduces a figure whose name echoes through Israel’s story. • Shelah’s role is largely transitional, yet vital; Genesis 11:12-13 repeats this exact link, confirming historical reliability. • Eber becomes the namesake of the “Hebrews.” Genesis 10:24-25 shows his sons Peleg and Joktan branching into distinct peoples, illustrating how God sovereignly directs nations. • Through Eber the promise keeps moving toward Abraham (Genesis 11:14-26) and ultimately toward Christ (Luke 3:35). summary 1 Chronicles 1:18 simply states two father-son links, yet those links are loaded with meaning. They testify that God preserves a faithful lineage, moves His redemptive story forward generation by generation, and keeps meticulous record of His people. Each name, however brief its mention, declares that the Lord’s purposes never lose their course. |
    |