Today we in our reading in 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles we see some repeated information. I have often struggled when I get to this section of the OT, not only because of the genealogies that are presented in the beginning of 1 Chronicles, but also because of the same stories being told. We will see it when we get into Kings too.
I found an article that was helpful to me in setting the stage. Remember, when we were getting through those genealogies in 1 Chronicles 1-9, I reminded us that these accounts were written to the original audience of ancient Israel – and there was purpose in it. This article helps to expand on that and puts in perspective as to the similarities and differences in the accounts. You can read that article HERE.
Reading the OT is a challenge. I know in the past there have been times where I started out with good intentions, but then got to a point where I felt so disjointed on the historical aspect that I just quit. I remember early on when I was saved and tried reading through it, I confused myself terribly because I thought the books were arranged chronologically – which they aren’t (in case you are in that same boat). My goal with reading it this year is to:
1) stick with it and slow down to make sure I am grasping more of the information being set before me;
2) try to have some sort of takeaway that a) helps me understand more of the history of the Bible itself in OT times, b) focuses on the attributes of God, c) points me to Christ, d) what it teaches me about myself, e) what can I apply to my life to help me walk in obedience to the Lord, or f) any or all of the above. Sometimes that is more difficult than others – like the genealogies of names that I cannot pronounce. In those times, I fall back to trusting that those portions of Scripture aren’t meaningless just because I can’t grasp them. No word of Scripture is frivolous or meaningless.
3) gain a better understanding of the overall history of Israel, because I know that will assist me in having a better understanding of some of the New Testament too.
But as with any reading of the Bible – no matter if it is chronological or what it is – the goal is to know, understand and grow in awe and wonder of the God who created all things, sustains all things, ordains all things; who sent his Son who was both fully God and fully man, to redeem a people to Himself by living a sinless life in the flesh, dying on a cross to pay the penalty of sin, being resurrected from the dead to conquer sin and death, and who is now seated at the right hand of God the Father and who will return one day to judge the living and the dead.
Sola Deo Gloria!
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