What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 25:27? The twentieth • “They cast lots for their duties, the young and old alike, teacher as well as pupil” (1 Chronicles 25:8). Verse 27 records that the twentieth lot fell in this divinely directed drawing. • Just as the twenty-four priestly courses were ordered in 1 Chronicles 24, God assigns musical service with equal precision (compare 1 Chronicles 24:18; 25:31). • The number twenty in this list tells us the rotation is nearing its close; every family would know exactly when it was their turn, safeguarding regular, uninterrupted praise (see 1 Chronicles 23:30-31). • By noting the twentieth course, Scripture affirms that every service date—no matter how late in the schedule—matters to God (cf. Matthew 20:1-16). To Eliathah • Eliathah is named earlier among Heman’s sons (1 Chronicles 25:4). Heman’s line was marked out “to give thanks and to praise the LORD” (1 Chronicles 16:41-42). • Being selected by lot underscored that Eliathah’s ministry was God-appointed, not self-chosen (Proverbs 16:33). • Other Hemanites served prominently in revivals under Hezekiah and Josiah (2 Chronicles 29:13-14; 35:15), showing how this family’s faithfulness stretched across generations. • The mention “to Eliathah” highlights personal responsibility. One man’s obedience would set the tone for an entire shift of worship (1 Chronicles 15:16-22). His sons, and his brothers—12 in all • Every course numbered twelve, matching the total of 288 musicians (24 × 12) in 1 Chronicles 25:7. • Twelve often signals completeness in Scripture—the tribes of Israel (Genesis 35:22-26), the gates of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:12)—so each group pictured the fullness of covenant praise. • “His sons” stresses that worship leadership was a family affair, teaching the next generation to magnify the LORD (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 78:4). • “His brothers” shows teamwork; no one served alone. Mutual encouragement kept worship vibrant (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10; Hebrews 10:24-25). • The size—twelve—was small enough for unity yet large enough for rich harmony, echoing David’s earlier call for “joyful songs” with varied instruments (1 Chronicles 15:16). summary 1 Ch 25:27 records that the twentieth lot for temple musicians fell to Eliathah. God’s orderly selection (the twentieth), His personal appointment (to Eliathah), and His perfect team design (his sons and his brothers—12 in all) reveal that every detail of worship was planned, personal, and participatory. The verse reminds believers today that God values structured service, raises up specific servants, and delights in families and fellow believers joining together to offer Him continual, wholehearted praise. |
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