1 Chronicles 9:16

Obadiah son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun; and Berechiah son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, who lived in the villages of the Netophathites.

Study Bible

Obadiah
The name "Obadiah" means "servant of Yahweh" in Hebrew. This name reflects a deep commitment to serving God, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible. Obadiah's role in the genealogical record underscores the importance of faithful service to God, a calling that transcends time and culture.

son of Shemaiah
"Shemaiah" means "heard by Yahweh." This name suggests a lineage that is attentive to God's voice, emphasizing the importance of listening to and obeying God's word. In a broader biblical context, it reminds us of the value of spiritual heritage and the blessings of being part of a family that honors God.

the son of Galal
"Galal" is a less common name, but it can be associated with the idea of "rolling" or "heap." This could metaphorically suggest the rolling away of reproach or sin, a concept seen in the account of Joshua at Gilgal (Joshua 5:9). It highlights the transformative power of God in the lives of His people.

the son of Jeduthun
"Jeduthun" was one of the chief musicians appointed by King David, and his name means "praising" or "confession." This connection to worship and music in the temple service underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. It serves as a reminder of the joy and duty of praising God.

Berechiah
The name "Berechiah" means "Yahweh blesses." This name reflects the blessings that come from a life dedicated to God. It is a testament to the generational blessings that flow from faithfulness to God's covenant.

son of Asa
"Asa" means "physician" or "healer." Asa was also a king of Judah known for his reforms and reliance on God. This name can symbolize spiritual healing and restoration, pointing to God's power to heal and renew His people.

the son of Elkanah
"Elkanah" means "God has possessed" or "God has created." This name signifies belonging to God, a theme that is central to the identity of Israel as God's chosen people. It speaks to the divine ownership and purpose in the lives of believers.

who lived in the villages of the Netophathites
The "Netophathites" were inhabitants of Netophah, a town near Bethlehem. This geographical reference situates the narrative in a real historical context, reminding us of the tangible reality of God's work in specific places and times. It also highlights the communal aspect of faith, as these individuals were part of a larger community dedicated to serving God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Obadiah
A Levite mentioned in the genealogies of those who returned to Jerusalem. His name means "servant of Yahweh," reflecting a life dedicated to serving God.

2. Shemaiah, Galal, and Jeduthun
Ancestors of Obadiah. Jeduthun is particularly notable as a chief musician appointed by King David, indicating a lineage involved in temple worship.

3. Berechiah
Another Levite, whose name means "Yahweh blesses." He is part of the lineage of temple servants.

4. Asa and Elkanah
Ancestors of Berechiah, with Elkanah being a name associated with several notable figures in the Bible, including the father of the prophet Samuel.

5. Netophathites
Residents of Netophah, a village near Bethlehem. This location is significant as it was home to several families who served in the temple.

Teaching Points

Generational Faithfulness
The genealogies remind us of the importance of passing down faith and service to God through generations. Each name represents a legacy of dedication to God's work.

The Role of Worship in Community
The mention of musicians and temple servants underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. Worship is not just a personal act but a communal one that strengthens the faith community.

God's Blessing in Service
Names like Berechiah ("Yahweh blesses") remind us that serving God brings blessings, not necessarily in material wealth, but in spiritual richness and fulfillment.

The Importance of Place in God's Plan
The reference to the Netophathites highlights how God uses specific places and communities to fulfill His purposes. Our own communities can be places of significant spiritual impact.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Obadiah and Berechiah reflect the importance of family heritage in spiritual service?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is both personal and communal, as seen in the roles of the Levites?

3. How can we identify and cultivate the "places" in our lives where God is calling us to serve?

4. What are some practical ways to pass down a legacy of faithfulness to the next generation?

5. How do the blessings of serving God manifest in our lives today, and how can we recognize them amidst daily challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 25
This chapter details the organization of temple musicians, including Jeduthun, highlighting the importance of worship and music in Israel's spiritual life.

1 Samuel 1
Elkanah, the father of Samuel, is another figure with the same name, emphasizing the recurring theme of faithful service to God across generations.

Nehemiah 11
This passage also lists the inhabitants of Jerusalem, including Levites, showing the continuity of service and worship from the time of the Chronicles to the post-exilic period.