What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 9:31? A Levite named Mattithiah • 1 Chronicles 9:31: “A Levite named Mattithiah…” reminds us that temple service was carried out by a defined, God-appointed tribe (Numbers 3:5–10; Deuteronomy 10:8). • Mattithiah appears again among singers (1 Chronicles 15:18, 21) and reformers (2 Chronicles 29:13). His repeated mention shows how God values individuals who faithfully serve in varying roles. • The Levites’ calling illustrates that worship involves everyday tasks as well as high-profile duties (1 Chronicles 23:28–32). Whatever our assignment, the Lord sees and records it (Colossians 3:23–24). the firstborn son of Shallum the Korahite • “firstborn” signals both privilege and responsibility (Exodus 13:2; Numbers 3:40-51). Mattithiah’s position meant extra accountability in his family’s ministry. • Shallum’s line comes from the Korahites, descendants of Korah (Numbers 26:11). Although Korah rebelled (Numbers 16:1-32), God’s mercy preserved his offspring, many of whom became devoted gatekeepers and singers (1 Chronicles 9:19; Psalm titles “of the sons of Korah”). • This heritage underlines grace: past failure does not doom future service when hearts return to the Lord (2 Chronicles 7:14; 1 Peter 2:9). was entrusted with baking the bread • Mattithiah “was entrusted”―a stewardship word (Luke 16:10; 1 Corinthians 4:1-2). The priests relied on him to prepare the showbread, twelve loaves set “continually before the LORD” (Leviticus 24:5-9). • The bread symbolized God’s perpetual presence and covenant provision (Exodus 25:30; 2 Chronicles 2:4). By keeping it fresh, Mattithiah helped Israel remember that the Lord always meets His people at the place of worship (1 Samuel 21:6; Nehemiah 10:33). • New-Testament light: Jesus called Himself “the bread of life” (John 6:35). The meticulous care for the temple bread foreshadows the greater provision found in Christ (Hebrews 9:2, 11-12). summary 1 Chronicles 9:31 spotlights one man, Mattithiah, whose faithful, hereditary service kept the holy bread before God day by day. As the firstborn Korahite, he bore both the privilege and the responsibility of stewardship. His quiet task underscores that worship requires dependable servants, that God redeems imperfect family histories, and that every act of obedience—even baking bread—points to the Lord who continually provides for and dwells with His people. |
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