1 Chronicles 8:1-40
Q.1. What privileged location did God give to the tribe of Benjamin? How would their location benefit them? – (1 Chr.8:1-32)
The tribe of Benjamin would eventually merge with the southern kingdom of Judah. Considering the rivalry and even bitterness (c.f. 2 Sam.16:5-14) resulting from David’s displacement of Saul as king, this is even more amazing. The tribe of Benjamin was located in and around Jerusalem (1 Chr.8:28 & 32 c.f. Josh.18:28). This was where the temple, which was the worship centre of God’s people, was constructed. History shows that the northern tribes became corrupt more quickly, because of the increased difficulties of travelling to Jerusalem, and observing the festivals. This argument was used by Jeroboam to keep the northern kingdom from reconnecting with the southern kingdom (1 Kgs.12:25-33). Near proximity to a good place of worship can make a huge difference to our spiritual life, and that of our families.
Q.2. How did the chronicler describe the descendants of Saul? How did Saul’s oldest son exemplify this courage? – (1 Chr.8:33-40)
Saul’s descendants through Ulam were – mighty men of valour, archers, and had many sons and grandsons, 150 of them (1 Chr.8:40). Saul’s oldest son Jonathan was known as a courageous leader and army general. The story of how he turned the hearts of an aggressive army and inspired a mighty victory against the Philistines through his faith and courage, is amazing (c.f. 1 Sam.14:6-15). It is hardly surprising that such a man of action was drawn to David, and that these two outstanding men of God bound themselves in covenant to be true to each other until death (c.f. 1 Sam.18:1-4; 20:12-17; 23:15-18).