1 Chronicles 27:25

Azmaveth son of Adiel was in charge of the royal storehouses. Jonathan son of Uzziah was in charge of the storehouses in the country, in the cities, in the villages, and in the fortresses.

Study Bible

Azmaveth son of Adiel
The name "Azmaveth" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "strong as death" or "death is strong." This name reflects a common practice in ancient Israel of using names to convey strength or divine attributes. Azmaveth's lineage, being the son of Adiel, places him within a context of familial responsibility and honor. Adiel means "ornament of God," suggesting a heritage of faithfulness and dedication to God's service. This highlights the importance of family legacy in biblical times, where roles and responsibilities were often passed down through generations.

was in charge of the royal storehouses
The phrase "in charge of the royal storehouses" indicates a position of significant responsibility and trust. In ancient Israel, the royal storehouses were crucial for the kingdom's economy and sustenance, storing grain, oil, and other resources. Being in charge of these storehouses required integrity and wisdom, as it involved managing the resources that would sustain the king's household and the nation. This role underscores the biblical principle of stewardship, where individuals are entrusted with resources to manage for the greater good, reflecting God's provision and care.

Jonathan son of Uzziah
The name "Jonathan" means "Yahweh has given," signifying a recognition of God's providence and blessing. Jonathan's father, Uzziah, means "my strength is Yahweh," further emphasizing a heritage of reliance on God's strength. This lineage suggests that Jonathan was raised with an understanding of God's sovereignty and provision, preparing him for his role in managing resources. The biblical narrative often highlights the importance of godly heritage and upbringing in preparing individuals for leadership and service.

was in charge of the storehouses in the outlying districts
The "storehouses in the outlying districts" refers to the decentralized storage facilities located throughout the kingdom. These were essential for ensuring that resources were available to all regions, not just the central royal court. Jonathan's role in managing these storehouses indicates a level of trust and responsibility, as he was tasked with ensuring equitable distribution and access to resources. This reflects the biblical theme of justice and provision, where leaders are called to ensure that all people have access to the necessities of life, mirroring God's care for His creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Azmaveth son of Adiel
He was responsible for the king's treasuries, indicating a position of significant trust and responsibility within King David's administration.

2. Jonathan son of Uzziah
He managed the treasuries located in various regions, including the countryside, cities, villages, and watchtowers, suggesting a decentralized system of resource management.

3. King’s Treasuries
These were the central repositories of wealth and resources for the kingdom, crucial for the administration and functioning of the state.

4. Treasuries in the Country, Cities, Villages, and Watchtowers
This indicates a well-organized system of resource management spread throughout the kingdom, ensuring that resources were available where needed.

5. King David’s Administration
The context of this verse is within the broader organization of King David's kingdom, highlighting the structured and efficient governance during his reign.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Trust
The roles of Azmaveth and Jonathan highlight the importance of stewardship and trustworthiness in managing resources. As Christians, we are called to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us, whether it be finances, time, or talents.

Organizational Structure
The detailed organization of the treasuries reflects the value of order and planning in our personal and communal lives. Effective management and planning are essential for achieving goals and fulfilling responsibilities.

Decentralization and Accessibility
The distribution of treasuries across various locations ensures accessibility and efficiency. In our lives, we should strive to make resources and opportunities accessible to those in need, reflecting God's provision and care.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The responsibilities given to Azmaveth and Jonathan remind us of the biblical principle that faithfulness in small things leads to greater responsibilities. We should be diligent in our current roles, trusting God for future opportunities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Azmaveth and Jonathan in managing the treasuries reflect the biblical principle of stewardship?

2. In what ways can we apply the organizational structure seen in 1 Chronicles 27:25 to our personal or church life?

3. How does the decentralization of treasuries in the kingdom of Israel relate to making resources accessible in our communities today?

4. Reflect on a time when you were entrusted with a responsibility. How did you demonstrate faithfulness, and what was the outcome?

5. How can the teachings of Jesus in Luke 16:10-12 about faithfulness in small things be applied to your current responsibilities or roles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 4:6
This verse describes the administrative structure under King Solomon, David's son, showing continuity and expansion of the organized system of governance.

Proverbs 3:9-10
These verses speak about honoring the Lord with wealth, which can be connected to the responsible management of resources as seen in 1 Chronicles 27:25.

Luke 16:10-12
Jesus teaches about faithfulness in managing resources, which parallels the trust placed in Azmaveth and Jonathan.