Chapter Summary

Genealogy of David's line.

Discussion Questions for 1 Chronicles, Chapter 3

1. David had many children, a sign that was synonymous in ancient Israelite culture with a blessing from God. Why are children considered "a blessing from the Lord" (Psalm 127:3, NASB)? How have you seen the term "blessing" misused or defined incorrectly? What, then, does it mean to be blessed?
2. What Godly characteristics did David emulate as a father? How did that affect his children and their relationships with each other?
3. David ruled in Hebron for over seven years before he was able to rule in Jerusalem. What are some ways we can practice patience as we await God's promises?
4. Bathsheba, referred to as "Bathshua" in 1 Chronicles, was able to give birth to four of David's sons. Why is her relationship with David significant in this genealogy?
5. Tamar experienced betrayal and violence at the hand of her half-brother, Ammon (2 Samuel 13:1-20). Why might the author include her in this genealogy?
6. Genealogies provide a "birds eye view" of the generations of descendants that come from a few individuals. What are some observations you can make based on David's descendants?
7. Why is David's lineage significant to an ancient Israelite reader?
8. Why is David's lineage significant to a modern Christian reader?
9. 1 Chronicles 3:10-17 list the sons of David that became kings of the nation of Judah. Out of the 20 given, only 8 were said to have done right in the eyes of the Lord. Why do people rebel against God?
10. The sons of Jeconiah, the last king of Judah who was taken into Babylonian captivity with many other Israelites, are listed in verses 19-24. What does this tell us about the amount of time the people of Judah spent in exile?

Key Words/Phrase

Genealogy.

Characters

David, Solomon, Rehoboam, Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, Manasseh, Josiah, Zerrubabbel.

Strong Verse(s)