1 Chronicles 3:5

and these sons were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon. These four were born to him by Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel.

Study Bible

These were born to him in Jerusalem
The phrase "born to him in Jerusalem" highlights the significance of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel during King David's reign. Jerusalem, often referred to as the City of David, became the capital after David conquered it from the Jebusites. This city holds profound historical and theological importance as the site where God chose to establish His name and where the temple would later be built by Solomon. The births of David's sons in Jerusalem symbolize the establishment of David's dynasty in the city that would become central to Israel's identity and God's covenantal promises.

Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon
These names represent the sons of David born to him in Jerusalem, each carrying its own significance. "Shimea" (also known as Shammua) means "heard" or "famous," suggesting a recognition or acknowledgment, possibly of God's favor or David's status. "Shobab" means "rebellious" or "backsliding," which could reflect the tumultuous nature of David's family life and the challenges he faced. "Nathan" means "gift" or "he has given," a name that resonates with the idea of divine blessing and favor. Nathan is also significant as the prophet who confronted David about his sin with Bathsheba, highlighting the intertwining of personal and prophetic narratives. "Solomon," meaning "peaceful," is perhaps the most significant of these names, as Solomon would succeed David as king and build the temple, fulfilling God's promise to David. Solomon's reign is often seen as a time of peace and prosperity, a foreshadowing of the ultimate peace found in Christ, the greater Son of David.

These four were born to David by Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel
The mention of "Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel" is crucial in understanding the redemptive arc in David's life. Bathsheba, initially introduced in the narrative of David's sin, becomes a pivotal figure in the lineage of the Messiah. Her father, "Ammiel," meaning "people of God," underscores the idea that God can bring about His purposes through flawed human circumstances. The inclusion of Bathsheba in the genealogy of Jesus, as seen in the Gospel of Matthew, highlights God's grace and the redemption of brokenness. This phrase serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to work through human imperfection to fulfill His divine plan, ultimately pointing to the coming of Christ, the true King of peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and his complex personal life, including his relationship with Bathsheba.

2. Bathsheba
The daughter of Ammiel, she became the wife of David after a controversial beginning to their relationship. She is the mother of Solomon, one of Israel's greatest kings.

3. Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon
The sons of David and Bathsheba born in Jerusalem. Solomon is particularly significant as he succeeded David as king and built the Temple.

4. Jerusalem
The city of David, which became the political and spiritual center of Israel. It is significant as the birthplace of these sons.

5. Ammiel
The father of Bathsheba, mentioned here to provide her lineage and background.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of God's Grace
Despite the sinful beginnings of David and Bathsheba's relationship, God brought forth Solomon, a key figure in Israel's history and the lineage of Christ. This illustrates God's ability to redeem and use imperfect situations for His purposes.

The Importance of Legacy
David's legacy is carried on through his sons, particularly Solomon. This emphasizes the importance of raising children in the knowledge and fear of the Lord, as they carry forward the family’s spiritual heritage.

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
The mention of these sons, especially Solomon, highlights God's sovereign plan in establishing the Davidic line, which ultimately leads to Jesus Christ. It reminds us that God’s plans are often beyond our understanding but always purposeful.

The Role of Jerusalem
As the birthplace of these sons, Jerusalem is not just a physical location but a symbol of God's chosen place for His people. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual significance of places dedicated to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of David and Bathsheba illustrate the concept of redemption in the Bible, and what can we learn from it about God's grace?

2. In what ways does the legacy of David's sons, particularly Solomon, challenge us to consider the spiritual heritage we are leaving for future generations?

3. How does the inclusion of Solomon in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1) enhance our understanding of God's promises to David?

4. What lessons can we draw from the fact that God used a city like Jerusalem as a central place for His people, and how can we apply this to our own communities?

5. Considering the background of David and Bathsheba's relationship, how can we apply the principles of repentance and restoration in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 11-12
These chapters provide the background of David and Bathsheba's relationship, including the sin of adultery and the subsequent events leading to their marriage.

1 Kings 1-2
These chapters detail Solomon's rise to the throne, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to David regarding his lineage.

Matthew 1:6
This verse in the genealogy of Jesus Christ mentions Solomon, connecting the lineage of David to the Messiah.