1 Chronicles 27
BSB1 This is the list of the Israelites—the heads of families, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and their officers who served the king in every matter concerning the divisions on rotating military duty each month throughout the year. There were 24,000 men in each division: 2 Jashobeam son of Zabdiel was in charge of the first division, which was assigned the first month. There were 24,000 men in his division. 3 He was a descendant of Perez and chief of all the army commanders for the first month. 4 Dodai the Ahohite was in charge of the division for the second month, and Mikloth was the leader. There were 24,000 men in his division. 5 The third army commander, as chief for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. There were 24,000 men in his division. 6 This Benaiah was mighty among the Thirty and was over the Thirty, and his son Ammizabad was in charge of his division. 7 The fourth, for the fourth month, was Joab’s brother Asahel, and his son Zebadiah was commander after him. There were 24,000 men in his division. 8 The fifth, for the fifth month, was the commander Shamhuth the Izrahite. There were 24,000 men in his division. 9 The sixth, for the sixth month, was Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite. There were 24,000 men in his division. 10 The seventh, for the seventh month, was Helez the Pelonite, an Ephraimite. There were 24,000 men in his division. 11 The eighth, for the eighth month, was Sibbecai the Hushathite, a Zerahite. There were 24,000 men in his division. 12 The ninth, for the ninth month, was Abiezer the Anathothite, a Benjamite. There were 24,000 men in his division. 13 The tenth, for the tenth month, was Maharai the Netophathite, a Zerahite. There were 24,000 men in his division. 14 The eleventh, for the eleventh month, was Benaiah the Pirathonite, an Ephraimite. There were 24,000 men in his division. 15 The twelfth, for the twelfth month, was Heldai the Netophathite, from the family of Othniel. There were 24,000 men in his division. 16 These officers were in charge of the tribes of Israel: Over the Reubenites was Eliezer son of Zichri; over the Simeonites was Shephatiah son of Maacah; 17 over Levi was Hashabiah son of Kemuel; over Aaron was Zadok; 18 over Judah was Elihu, one of David’s brothers; over Issachar was Omri son of Michael; 19 over Zebulun was Ishmaiah son of Obadiah; over Naphtali was Jerimoth son of Azriel; 20 over the Ephraimites was Hoshea son of Azaziah; over one of the half-tribes of Manasseh was Joel son of Pedaiah; 21 over the half-tribe of Manasseh in Gilead was Iddo son of Zechariah; over Benjamin was Jaasiel son of Abner; 22 and over Dan was Azarel son of Jeroham. These were the leaders of the tribes of Israel. 23 David did not count the men aged twenty or under, because the LORD had said that He would make Israel as numerous as the stars of the sky. 24 Joab son of Zeruiah began to count the men but did not finish. For because of this census wrath came upon Israel, and the number was not entered in the Book of the Chronicles of King David. 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. 26 Ezri son of Chelub was in charge of the workers in the fields who tilled the soil. 27 Shimei the Ramathite was in charge of the vineyards. Zabdi the Shiphmite was in charge of the produce of the vineyards for the wine vats. 28 Baal-hanan the Gederite was in charge of the olive and sycamore trees in the foothills. Joash was in charge of the stores of olive oil. 29 Shitrai the Sharonite was in charge of the herds grazing in Sharon. Shaphat son of Adlai was in charge of the herds in the valleys. 30 Obil the Ishmaelite was in charge of the camels. Jehdeiah the Meronothite was in charge of the donkeys. 31 Jaziz the Hagrite was in charge of the flocks. All these officials were in charge of King David’s property. 32 David’s uncle Jonathan was a counselor; he was a man of insight and a scribe. Jehiel son of Hachmoni attended to the sons of the king. 33 Ahithophel was the king’s counselor. Hushai the Archite was the king’s friend. 34 Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada son of Benaiah, then by Abiathar. Joab was the commander of the king’s army.
Study Notes — 1 Chronicles 27
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Chronicles 27
- Themes from 1 Chronicles 27
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
1 Chronicles 27 provides a detailed account of the military and administrative organization of King David's kingdom. The chapter begins by listing the twelve captains of the army, one for each tribe of Israel, who served for a month at a time (1 Chronicles 27:1-15). Then, it describes the leaders of the twelve tribes, who were in charge of administering the kingdom (1 Chronicles 27:16-24). The chapter also mentions the officers in charge of the king's treasuries, livestock, and vineyards (1 Chronicles 27:25-31). Additionally, it notes the king's advisor, Jonathan, and his secretary, Jehiel (1 Chronicles 27:32-34). The chapter concludes by listing the thirty-seven leaders of David's army (1 Chronicles 27:1-34). Overall, the chapter emphasizes the importance of organization, leadership, and administration in the kingdom of Israel.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Chronicles, which describes the history of the kingdom of Israel from the death of King Saul to the reign of King David. The chapter provides a detailed account of the organization and administration of King David's kingdom, which is essential for understanding the kingdom's stability and security. The chapter also foreshadows the organization and administration of the church, which is the body of Christ, as seen in (John 10:16) and (1 Corinthians 12:27).
Heart Application
This chapter reminds us of the importance of leadership, administration, and the division of labor in our own lives and in the church. As Christians, we should strive to use our gifts and talents to serve the Lord and to build up the body of Christ. We should also recognize the importance of unity and cooperation among believers, as we work together to spread the gospel and to fulfill the Great Commission.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter describes how King David organized his army and kingdom. He had twelve captains, one for each tribe of Israel, who served for a month at a time. The chapter also lists the leaders of the twelve tribes and the officers in charge of the king's resources. The main point of the chapter is that organization and leadership are important for the stability and security of the kingdom, as seen in (1 Chronicles 27:1) and (1 Chronicles 27:16).
Voices from the Church
“The church of Christ is not a mere aggregate of individuals, but a living, organized body, with its various members working together for the common good.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The government of the church is not a mere human institution, but a divine ordinance, established by Christ himself for the edification of his people.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Twelve Captains of the Army (1 Chronicles 27:1-15) — The chapter begins by listing the twelve captains of the army, one for each tribe of Israel, who served for a month at a time.
- The Leaders of the Twelve Tribes (1 Chronicles 27:16-24) — The chapter describes the leaders of the twelve tribes, who were in charge of administering the kingdom.
- The Officers in Charge of the King's Resources (1 Chronicles 27:25-31) — The chapter mentions the officers in charge of the king's treasuries, livestock, and vineyards.
- The King's Advisor and Secretary (1 Chronicles 27:32-34) — The chapter notes the king's advisor, Jonathan, and his secretary, Jehiel.
- Conclusion (1 Chronicles 27:1-34) — The chapter concludes by listing the thirty-seven leaders of David's army, emphasizing the importance of organization and leadership in the kingdom.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Leadership
- This chapter teaches that leadership is crucial for the stability and security of the kingdom. King David's ability to delegate responsibilities to his trusted officials ensured the kingdom's prosperity.
- The Division of Labor
- The chapter shows how the division of labor is essential for the efficient functioning of the kingdom. The various leaders and officials worked together to administer the kingdom.
- The Role of the King's Advisor
- The chapter highlights the importance of the king's advisor, who played a crucial role in the administration of the kingdom.
- The Organization of the Church
- The chapter foreshadows the organization and administration of the church, which is the body of Christ. The church should strive for unity and cooperation among its members, just as the kingdom of Israel did.
Lessons from 1 Chronicles 27
- The Importance of Leadership — This chapter teaches us that leadership is crucial for the stability and security of any organization. We should strive to develop our leadership skills and to use them to serve the Lord and to build up the body of Christ.
- The Division of Labor — The chapter shows us that the division of labor is essential for the efficient functioning of any organization. We should recognize our own gifts and talents and use them to serve the Lord and to build up the body of Christ.
- The Role of the King's Advisor — The chapter highlights the importance of seeking advice and counsel from others. We should be willing to listen to others and to seek their input and guidance.
- The Organization of the Church — The chapter foreshadows the organization and administration of the church, which is the body of Christ. We should strive for unity and cooperation among believers, just as the kingdom of Israel did.
- The Importance of Unity — The chapter emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation among believers. We should strive to work together and to build each other up, rather than to tear each other down.
Themes from 1 Chronicles 27
- Leadership — The chapter highlights the importance of leadership in the kingdom of Israel. King David's ability to delegate responsibilities to his trusted officials ensured the kingdom's prosperity.
- Administration — The chapter describes the administration of the kingdom, including the division of labor and the role of the king's advisor.
- Organization — The chapter shows how the kingdom was organized into different divisions, each with its own leaders and officials.
- Unity — The chapter emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation among believers. We should strive to work together and to build each other up, rather than to tear each other down.
- The Body of Christ — The chapter foreshadows the organization and administration of the church, which is the body of Christ. We should recognize our own gifts and talents and use them to serve the Lord and to build up the body of Christ.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from King David's leadership style in this chapter?
- How does the division of labor in the kingdom of Israel relate to the church today?
- What role does the king's advisor play in the administration of the kingdom?
- How does this chapter foreshadow the organization and administration of the church?
- What are the implications of this chapter for our own lives and ministries?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Twelve Captains of the Army (1 Chronicles 27:1-15)
| 27:1 | The chapter begins by listing the twelve captains of the army, one for each tribe of Israel, who served for a month at a time. |
| 27:2 | The captains are listed in order, with their respective tribes and the number of men they commanded. |
| 27:3 | The chapter notes that the captains were in charge of the army, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the divisions that were on duty month by month throughout the year. |
| 27:4 | The chapter lists the captains and their respective tribes, including Jashobeam, Dodai, and Ahiezer. |
| 27:5 | The chapter notes that the captains were in charge of the army, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the divisions that were on duty month by month throughout the year. |
| 27:6 | The chapter lists the captains and their respective tribes, including Ira, Abiezer, and Ammihud. |
| 27:7 | The chapter notes that the captains were in charge of the army, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the divisions that were on duty month by month throughout the year. |
| 27:8 | The chapter lists the captains and their respective tribes, including Shamhuth, Jeroham, and Helez. |
| 27:9 | The chapter notes that the captains were in charge of the army, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the divisions that were on duty month by month throughout the year. |
| 27:10 | The chapter lists the captains and their respective tribes, including Abijah, Jeribai, and Jashobeam. |
| 27:11 | The chapter notes that the captains were in charge of the army, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the divisions that were on duty month by month throughout the year. |
| 27:12 | The chapter lists the captains and their respective tribes, including Zebadiah, Joel, and Jashobeam. |
| 27:13 | The chapter notes that the captains were in charge of the army, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the divisions that were on duty month by month throughout the year. |
| 27:14 | The chapter lists the captains and their respective tribes, including Jonathan, Shammah, and Ahiam. |
| 27:15 | The chapter concludes the list of the twelve captains of the army, one for each tribe of Israel, who served for a month at a time. |
2. The Leaders of the Twelve Tribes (1 Chronicles 27:16-24)
| 27:16 | The chapter describes the leaders of the twelve tribes, who were in charge of administering the kingdom. |
| 27:17 | The chapter notes that the leaders were in charge of the tribes, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:18 | The chapter lists the leaders and their respective tribes, including Elihu, Hashabiah, and Azarel. |
| 27:19 | The chapter notes that the leaders were in charge of the tribes, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:20 | The chapter lists the leaders and their respective tribes, including Jerimoth, Amaziah, and Jahath. |
| 27:21 | The chapter notes that the leaders were in charge of the tribes, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:22 | The chapter lists the leaders and their respective tribes, including Eliezer, Jeribai, and Jashobeam. |
| 27:23 | The chapter notes that the leaders were in charge of the tribes, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:24 | The chapter concludes the list of the leaders of the twelve tribes, who were in charge of administering the kingdom. |
3. The Officers in Charge of the King's Resources (1 Chronicles 27:25-31)
| 27:25 | The chapter mentions the officers in charge of the king's treasuries, livestock, and vineyards. |
| 27:26 | The chapter notes that the officers were in charge of the king's resources, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:27 | The chapter lists the officers and their respective responsibilities, including Baal-hanan, Jahaziel, and Shephatiah. |
| 27:28 | The chapter notes that the officers were in charge of the king's resources, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:29 | The chapter lists the officers and their respective responsibilities, including Shimei, Zadok, and Ahitub. |
| 27:30 | The chapter notes that the officers were in charge of the king's resources, and that they served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:31 | The chapter concludes the list of the officers in charge of the king's resources, who served the king in every matter concerning the administration of the kingdom. |
4. The King's Advisor and Secretary (1 Chronicles 27:32-34)
| 27:32 | The chapter notes the king's advisor, Jonathan, who played a crucial role in the administration of the kingdom. |
| 27:33 | The chapter notes the king's secretary, Jehiel, who was in charge of the king's correspondence and records. |
| 27:34 | The chapter concludes the chapter by listing the thirty-seven leaders of David's army, emphasizing the importance of organization and leadership in the kingdom. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main point of 1 Chronicles 27?
The main point of 1 Chronicles 27 is to describe the organization and administration of King David's kingdom, highlighting the importance of leadership, administration, and the division of labor. As seen in (1 Chronicles 27:1-15), the twelve captains of the army were in charge of the divisions that served the king on a monthly basis.
Who were the twelve captains of the army?
The twelve captains of the army were the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel, who served for a month at a time. They are listed in (1 Chronicles 27:1-15), and include Jashobeam, Dodai, and Ahiezer.
What role did the king's advisor play in the administration of the kingdom?
The king's advisor, Jonathan, played a crucial role in the administration of the kingdom, as noted in (1 Chronicles 27:32-34). He was responsible for advising the king on matters concerning the administration of the kingdom.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Chronicles 27:1 → 2 Samuel 23:8 | The list of the twelve captains of the army in 1 Chronicles 27:1-15 is similar to the list of David's mighty men in 2 Samuel 23:8-39. |
| 2 | 1 Chronicles 27:16 → Numbers 1:16 | The leaders of the twelve tribes listed in 1 Chronicles 27:16-24 are similar to the leaders of the twelve tribes listed in Numbers 1:16-54. |
| 3 | 1 Chronicles 27:25 → 1 Kings 4:7 | The officers in charge of the king's resources listed in 1 Chronicles 27:25-31 are similar to the officers in charge of the king's resources listed in 1 Kings 4:7-19. |
| 4 | 1 Chronicles 27:32 → 2 Samuel 15:32 | The king's advisor, Jonathan, is also mentioned in 2 Samuel 15:32, where he is described as a wise and knowledgeable man. |
| 5 | 1 Chronicles 27:1 → John 10:16 | The organization and administration of the kingdom of Israel in 1 Chronicles 27:1-34 foreshadows the organization and administration of the church, which is the body of Christ, as seen in John 10:16. |
| 6 | 1 Chronicles 27:16 → 1 Corinthians 12:27 | The leaders of the twelve tribes listed in 1 Chronicles 27:16-24 are similar to the leaders of the church listed in 1 Corinthians 12:27-31. |
| 7 | 1 Chronicles 27:25 → Matthew 25:14-30 | The officers in charge of the king's resources listed in 1 Chronicles 27:25-31 are similar to the servants in charge of the master's resources in Matthew 25:14-30. |
| 8 | 1 Chronicles 27:32 → Proverbs 11:14 | The king's advisor, Jonathan, is an example of the importance of wise counsel, as noted in Proverbs 11:14. |
| 9 | 1 Chronicles 27:1 → Ephesians 4:11-12 | The organization and administration of the kingdom of Israel in 1 Chronicles 27:1-34 foreshadows the organization and administration of the church, which is the body of Christ, as seen in Ephesians 4:11-12. |
| 10 | 1 Chronicles 27:16 → Colossians 1:18 | The leaders of the twelve tribes listed in 1 Chronicles 27:16-24 are similar to the leaders of the church listed in Colossians 1:18, where Christ is described as the head of the church. |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Chronicles 27
In this chapter, we see the kingdom of Israel under the wise and just rule of King David. The organization and administration of the kingdom are described in detail, highlighting the importance of leadership, administration, and the division of labor. The chapter also foreshadows the organization and administration of the church, which is the body of Christ. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The church is not a mere aggregate of individuals, but a living, organized body, with its various members working together for the common good.' The chapter reminds us of the importance of unity and cooperation among believers, and the need for wise and knowledgeable leaders to guide the church. As seen in (1 Chronicles 27:1) and (1 Chronicles 27:16), the leaders of the kingdom of Israel worked together to administer the kingdom, and the church should strive for similar unity and cooperation. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Leadership
The chapter highlights the importance of leadership and administration in the kingdom of Israel. King David, as a leader, delegated responsibilities to his trusted officials, which ensured the stability and security of the kingdom. This is evident in (1 Chronicles 27:1-15), where the twelve captains of the army are listed.
The Division of Labor
The chapter shows how the kingdom was organized into different divisions, each with its own leaders and officials. This division of labor ensured that the kingdom functioned efficiently and effectively, as seen in (1 Chronicles 27:25-31).
The Role of the King's Advisor
The chapter mentions the king's advisor, Jonathan, who played a crucial role in the administration of the kingdom, as noted in (1 Chronicles 27:32-34).