May 18, 2021

The Return of the Exiles

Overview: 1 Chronicles 7-9, John 7:1-31

1 Chronicles begins with a genealogy of the tribes of Israel to prove that the returned exiles are still God’s people with a special purpose. The story focuses on Judah, Levi, and Benjamin to show these tribes as heirs of the united kingdom of Israel. 

When Jesus appears at the Feast of Booths, He explains that the miraculous signs He has done testify to His authority from God. The Jewish authorities oppose Him, yet many of the people believe in Him. 

Observation and Activation

“So all Israel was recorded in genealogies, and these are written in the Book of the Kings of Israel. And Judah was taken into exile in Babylon because of their breach of faith.” - 1 Chronicles 9:1

1 Chronicles records many of the same stories as Samuel and Kings, but with the benefit of hindsight after returning from exile. The beginning of the book lists a genealogy of the twelve tribes as a recap of how God’s people got to this moment, as a new generation returns to Jerusalem. 

The miraculous signs performed by Jesus prove his identity as the Messiah, yet many religious leaders opposed him in their hearts. Where do you find yourself resisting Jesus’ authority because it threatens your own power or comfort?