1 Chronicles 25:24

the seventeenth to Joshbekashah, his sons, and his brothers--12 in all;

Study Bible

the seventeenth
This phrase refers to the order of the lot that was cast for the musicians in the service of the temple. The casting of lots was a common biblical practice used to discern God's will, reflecting a deep trust in divine sovereignty. The number sixteen, in biblical numerology, can symbolize completeness or the fullness of God's plan. It is a reminder that each position, no matter how it appears in sequence, is significant in the divine order.

to Joshbekashah
Yoshbeqashah is a personal name found in the genealogies of the Bible. The name can be interpreted to mean he who sits in difficulty or dweller in hardship, reflecting a possible characteristic or circumstance associated with the individual or his family.

his sons and brothers
This phrase highlights the familial nature of the temple service. The inclusion of sons and brothers indicates a generational and communal aspect to worship, where families served together. This reflects the biblical principle of passing down faith and responsibilities through family lines, ensuring that the worship of God remains a central and enduring part of community life.

twelve
The number twelve is significant throughout the Bible, often representing God's authority and governmental foundation, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. In this context, the number of musicians, twelve, signifies completeness and order in worship. It suggests that each group, though distinct, contributes to the harmonious and complete worship of God, reflecting the unity and diversity within the body of believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshbekashah
A leader of one of the divisions of musicians appointed by King David for the service of the house of the Lord. His name is listed among those who were set apart for the ministry of prophesying with lyres, harps, and cymbals.

2. Sons and Relatives
This refers to the family members of Joshbekashah who were involved in the musical ministry. The number twelve signifies completeness and order, reflecting the organized worship in the temple.

3. King David
The king of Israel who organized the Levitical musicians into divisions for temple worship, emphasizing the importance of music in worship and prophecy.

4. Temple Worship
The context of this verse is the organized worship in the temple, highlighting the role of music and prophecy in the spiritual life of Israel.

5. Division of Musicians
This event refers to the systematic arrangement of musicians into 24 divisions, each serving in the temple, which underscores the structured approach to worship.

Teaching Points

The Role of Music in Worship
Music is a vital component of worship, serving as a means to glorify God and edify the congregation.

Organized Worship Reflects God's Order
The structured division of musicians highlights the importance of order and organization in worship, reflecting God's nature of orderliness.

Family Involvement in Ministry
The inclusion of sons and relatives in the musical ministry underscores the value of involving family in serving the Lord together.

Prophetic Ministry through Music
Music can be a form of prophecy, conveying God's truth and encouraging the faithful, as seen in the role of the temple musicians.

Completeness in Service
The number twelve symbolizes completeness, reminding us that our service to God should be wholehearted and complete.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the organization of musicians in 1 Chronicles 25 reflect the importance of order in our worship services today?

2. In what ways can music serve as a form of prophecy or spiritual encouragement in the church?

3. How can families today be involved together in ministry, following the example of Joshbekashah and his relatives?

4. What role does music play in your personal worship, and how can you incorporate it more fully into your spiritual life?

5. How does the concept of completeness, as symbolized by the number twelve, challenge you to offer your whole self in service to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 25:1-31
This passage provides the broader context of the division of musicians, showing the organization and dedication of those involved in temple worship.

Psalm 150
This psalm emphasizes the importance of music in worship, encouraging the use of various instruments to praise God, which aligns with the role of Joshbekashah and his family.

Ephesians 5:19
This New Testament verse encourages believers to speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, making music in their hearts to the Lord, reflecting the ongoing importance of music in worship.