What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 4:38? These men listed by name • God intentionally preserves these names so future generations remember real people, not faceless statistics (see Exodus 32:32 and Isaiah 49:16, “I have engraved you on the palms of My hands”). • Earlier in the chapter, similar lists trace Judah’s line (1 Chronicles 4:1–23); the inspired record affirms that each individual matters in God’s unfolding plan. • By recording them “by name,” Scripture highlights God’s personal knowledge and care, echoing Jesus’ assurance that even “the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (Matthew 10:30). were the leaders of their clans • Leadership here is more than administrative; it carries spiritual weight, like the tribal chiefs Moses appointed (Numbers 1:16) and the valiant men who later joined David (1 Chronicles 12:32). • God raises up leaders to guide families in covenant faithfulness (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). These clan heads modeled trust and obedience, much as Joshua did when he declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). • The phrase reminds us that influence begins at home: healthy clans build a strong nation, just as elders in the early church shepherded local congregations (Acts 14:23). Their families increased greatly • This growth fulfills God’s creation mandate: “Be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28). It signals His blessing, for “children are a heritage from the LORD” (Psalm 127:3–5). • Covenant obedience brings multiplication (Deuteronomy 7:13); the Chronicler links faithfulness with flourishing. • The verse also prepares readers for the expansion into new territory described in the next verses (1 Chronicles 4:39–43), showing how God equips His people numerically before giving broader assignments, just as He did with Israel in Egypt (Exodus 1:7). summary 1 Chronicles 4:38 presents a snapshot of God-blessed leadership: named individuals, recognized as clan heads, experience abundant family growth. The verse reassures readers that God notices every person, values faithful leaders, and delights to multiply His people when they walk in covenant obedience. |
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