1 Chronicles 9:28

Some of them were in charge of the articles used in worship, to count them whenever they were brought in or taken out.

Study Bible

Some of them
This phrase refers to the Levites, a tribe set apart for religious duties in Israel. Historically, the Levites were chosen by God to serve in the temple, emphasizing the importance of dedicated service to God. Their role was not just a job but a divine calling, highlighting the principle that God calls specific individuals for specific purposes within His kingdom.

were in charge
The Hebrew root for "in charge" implies oversight and responsibility. This denotes a position of trust and authority, suggesting that those who serve God must do so with diligence and integrity. It reflects the biblical principle that leadership in God's service is a stewardship, requiring accountability and faithfulness.

of the articles used in worship
The "articles" refer to the sacred objects used in temple worship, such as the altar, lampstands, and utensils. These items were consecrated for holy use, symbolizing the sanctity and reverence required in worship. This underscores the idea that worship is not casual but a sacred act that demands respect and careful attention to detail.

to count them
Counting the articles signifies careful management and stewardship. In a spiritual sense, this reflects the need for order and precision in worship and service to God. It also suggests that every aspect of worship is significant and must be handled with care, reflecting God's orderliness and attention to detail.

whenever they were brought in or taken out
This phrase indicates the regularity and routine involved in temple service. It highlights the continuous nature of worship and the ongoing responsibility of those who serve. Spiritually, it reminds believers of the constancy of God's presence and the perpetual nature of worship, which is not confined to a single moment but is a continual offering of one's life to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levites
The Levites were the tribe of Israel set apart for religious duties and temple service. In this context, they were responsible for the care and management of the temple articles.

2. Temple Articles
These were sacred items used in the worship and rituals of the temple. They included items like the altar, lampstands, and various utensils necessary for sacrifices and offerings.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the temple was located, serving as the central place of worship for the Israelites.

4. Post-Exilic Period
This chapter is set in the time after the Israelites returned from Babylonian exile, focusing on the re-establishment of temple worship and duties.

5. Worship
The act of reverence and adoration directed towards God, central to the life and identity of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Faithful Stewardship
The Levites' responsibility to count and manage the temple articles teaches us the importance of being faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us, whether it be material possessions, spiritual gifts, or responsibilities.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The meticulous care in handling the temple articles underscores the importance of approaching worship with reverence and attention to detail, ensuring that our worship is pleasing to God.

Role of Accountability
The practice of counting the articles when brought in and taken out highlights the role of accountability in our spiritual lives. We are called to be accountable to God and to one another in our actions and service.

Continuity of Service
The Levites' duties remind us of the continuity of service to God across generations. We are part of a long tradition of believers called to serve and worship God faithfully.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Levites in managing the temple articles inspire us to be faithful in our own responsibilities today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is conducted with the same reverence and attention to detail as the Levites showed in their duties?

3. How can we apply the principle of accountability in our personal and communal spiritual practices?

4. What are some modern "temple articles" or resources that God has entrusted to us, and how can we be good stewards of them?

5. How does understanding the continuity of service from the Old Testament to the New Testament encourage us in our walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 4:16
This passage describes the duties of the Levites in caring for the sanctuary and its contents, highlighting the continuity of their responsibilities.

1 Samuel 2:22-25
Eli's sons' misuse of temple articles contrasts with the faithful stewardship described in 1 Chronicles 9:28, emphasizing the importance of integrity in temple service.

Hebrews 9:1-5
This New Testament passage describes the earthly sanctuary and its articles, connecting the Old Testament practices to the new covenant in Christ.