1 Chronicles 3:6

David's other sons were Ibhar, Elishua, Eliphelet,

Study Bible

David’s other sons
This phrase indicates that the sons listed here are in addition to those previously mentioned in the genealogy. David had many sons, reflecting his multiple marriages and concubines, which was common for kings in the ancient Near East to secure alliances and strengthen their rule. This practice, while culturally accepted, often led to familial strife, as seen in the accounts of David's family.

Ibhar
Ibhar is one of David's lesser-known sons, and little is mentioned about him elsewhere in the Bible. His name means "He chooses" or "He selects," which may reflect a divine aspect of being chosen or set apart. The lack of additional information about Ibhar suggests that he did not play a significant role in the biblical narrative or in the political landscape of Israel.

Elishua
Elishua, also known as Elishama in some biblical texts, means "God is salvation." This name reflects a common theme in Hebrew names, emphasizing reliance on God for deliverance and protection. The name Elishua is not unique to David's son, as it appears in other genealogies, indicating its popularity and the cultural importance of invoking God's name in personal identity.

Eliphelet
Eliphelet, meaning "God is deliverance," is another son of David. The repetition of themes of salvation and deliverance in the names of David's sons underscores the theological emphasis on God's role as a savior and protector of Israel. Eliphelet is mentioned again in 1 Chronicles 14:5, but like Ibhar and Elishua, he does not have a prominent role in the biblical narrative. The presence of these names in David's lineage highlights the hope and expectation of divine intervention and blessing upon the house of David, which is ultimately fulfilled in the messianic prophecy concerning Jesus Christ, a descendant of David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nogah
Nogah is one of the sons of King David, mentioned in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles. His name means "brightness" or "splendor" in Hebrew, though little else is known about him from the biblical text.

2. Nepheg
Nepheg is another son of David. His name means "sprout" or "shoot" in Hebrew. Like Nogah, there is limited information about his life or role in the biblical account.

3. Japhia
Japhia is also listed as a son of David. His name means "shining" or "enlightened" in Hebrew. The lack of additional context about Japhia in the Bible suggests that his significance lies primarily in his inclusion in the royal lineage.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Genealogy in Scripture
Genealogies in the Bible, such as the one in 1 Chronicles 3, underscore the continuity of God's covenant promises. They remind us of God's faithfulness across generations and His sovereign plan in history.

Every Person Matters in God's Plan
Even though little is known about Nogah, Nepheg, and Japhia, their inclusion in the biblical record signifies that every individual has a place in God's overarching account. This encourages us to recognize our own significance in God's plan.

The Legacy of Faith
The mention of David's sons serves as a reminder of the legacy of faith and leadership passed down through generations. It challenges us to consider the spiritual heritage we are building for future generations.

God's Sovereignty in History
The genealogical records reflect God's sovereign hand in guiding history according to His purposes. This reassures us that God is in control, even when individual accounts seem insignificant.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn about the significance of genealogies in the Bible, and how do they reflect God's faithfulness?

2. How does the inclusion of lesser-known figures like Nogah, Nepheg, and Japhia in the biblical record encourage us in our own walk with God?

3. In what ways can we contribute to a legacy of faith for future generations, as seen in the lineage of David?

4. How does understanding God's sovereignty in history, as demonstrated through genealogies, impact our trust in Him today?

5. What connections can we draw between the genealogies in 1 Chronicles and the genealogy of Jesus in the New Testament, and how do these connections deepen our understanding of God's redemptive plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 5:14-16
This passage provides a parallel account of David's sons born in Jerusalem, including some of the same names, highlighting the importance of David's lineage.

1 Chronicles 14:4-7
Another genealogical listing of David's sons, reinforcing the continuity and importance of David's family line in the history of Israel.

Matthew 1:1-17
The genealogy of Jesus Christ, which traces His lineage back to David, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises through David's line.