1 Chronicles 27:1-34
Q.1. How frequently were the soldiers on duty for the king and nation? What lifestyle balance did this provide for Israel? (1 Chr.27:1-15)
Soldiers from the twelve tribes of Israel were rostered for duty each month. – Now this is the enumeration of the sons of Israel, the heads of fathers’ households, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and their officers who served the king in all the affairs of the divisions which came in and went out month by month throughout all the months of the year, each division numbering 24,000 (1 Chr.27:1). This meant that soldiers had eleven months to give to family, farm, and civil responsibilities. It kept Israel prepared for battle but also maintained community balance.
Q.2. Why was Benaiah given an honourable mention? What was recorded about Joab? (1 Chr.27:5-6, 23-24)
Many of the divisional leaders were renowned for their courage and prowess. Many were documented as David’s Mighty Men. Benaiah was not one of the Three Mighty Men, but His exploits spoke for themselves (Jesus had an ‘inner circle’ of three … Peter, James, and John). Benaiah was an amazing warrior who, amongst other feats, killed a seven and a half foot giant and a lion (1 Chr.11:22-24; 21:1-4). Joab was the commander of the army. He was the consummate army man, who eliminated all rivals for the top job. He was mentioned in the incident of numbering the strength of David’s army, although he could not complete the task because God’s wrath burned against Israel (2 Sam.24:1). It is clear that Joab did all in his power to persuade David to not take a census that was not commanded by God. However, the king’s word prevailed (1 Chr.21:3).
Q.3. Why did David need capable overseers? Over what did they preside? (1 Chr.27:25-34)
David not only ruled over the large territory of the twelve tribes both west and east of the Jordan River, but also the areas beyond where they ruled and taxed. David was an inspirational and multi-gifted leader, soldier, songwriter, author, and overseer. As a prophet, he wrote some of the most significant prophecies concerning the Messiah. In order to look after his affairs of state, David appointed managers over civil, agricultural, and military operations. Every conceivable responsibility for his kingdom was delegated to qualified leaders and their teams.