Understanding 1 Chronicles 7:23

The verse 1 Chronicles 7:23 states, "And when he went in to his wife, she conceived, and bore a son, and he called his name Beriah, because it went evil with his house." This passage provides a foundational glimpse into the genealogical and historical accounts found in the Book of Chronicles, focusing on the lineage of Ephraim.

Verse Context and Meaning

This verse highlights key themes of family, legacy, and divine providence. It demonstrates the importance of lineage in the Israelite culture, where a name often carried the weight of circumstances surrounding its bearer.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the significance of names in Scripture, noting that the name "Beriah" (which means "in wickedness") reflects the misfortunes and calamities that befell Ephraim's family. This naming underscores the weight of legacy and consequence, displaying the human struggles woven through divine plans.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes notes that Beriah's origin is characterized by trouble; the connection to the phrase “went evil with his house” indicates a familial journey marked by challenges. This stanza reminds readers that even amidst troubles, new life emerges, signifying hope and continuity.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke points out the domestic setting of the passage, suggesting that it also reflects on the spiritual and moral conditions that can affect families. He interprets the birth as a sign of survival through adversity, linking the personal to the communal experience of trials in Israel.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

1 Chronicles 7:23 is not isolated; it resonates with several other scriptures expressing similar themes of familial struggle and divine intervention. Below are some relevant cross-references:

• Genesis 30:1-2: These verses discuss family strife and the desire for children, highlighting similar themes of barrenness and blessing.
• Exodus 20:5: Discusses the generational consequences of sin, paralleling the concern for family legacy found in Chronicles.
• Job 1:5: Job's concern for his children and their spiritual lives accentuates the weight of familial responsibility.
• Psalm 127:3: This verse affirms that children are a heritage from the Lord, resonating with the preciousness of family ties.
• Luke 1:17: The angel speaks of turning hearts to families, connecting the spiritual implications of familial relationships.
• Acts 2:39: Mentions the promises of God extending to families, reinforcing the hope found in divine inclusion in familial contexts.
• 1 Timothy 5:8: Emphasizes the importance of providing for one's family, connecting to the responsibilities tied to familial ties.

Exploring the Cross-References

By examining the connections between these verses, readers can garner a deeper understanding of 1 Chronicles 7:23. These linkages facilitate a thematic exploration across both Old and New Testaments:

• Identifying connections between Old and New Testament: The birth of Beriah, amid adversity, finds resonance in New Testament accounts emphasizing redemption and familial bonds, such as the genealogies of Jesus.
• Bible verses related to family dynamics: The emphasis on generational legacies and divine intervention is a recurring theme within scriptures, promoting family as a critical context for spiritual growth and community.
• Cross-references for deeper understanding: Utilizing a Bible concordance or cross-reference guide can illuminate scriptural parallels and enhance one's study and interpretation of familial themes in the biblical narrative.

Conclusion

In summary, 1 Chronicles 7:23 serves as a powerful reminder of the intricate web of family, legacy, and divine providence. Through the lens of various biblical commentaries and inter-textual connections, readers can enrich their understanding of this verse within its context while also appreciating its broader theological implications.

Further Study Recommendations

To deepen your study, consider examining:

• Cross-reference Bible study methods: Approach passages by examining their interconnections.
• Bible chain references: Trace thematic connections to follow significant threads through biblical texts.