TEAM WORK. 1st Chronicles 24 Those who returned from Babylon were embarking on a completely new way of life as individuals, which could have made coordinating the restored group difficult. The historical account of how temple worship began would have helped them understand how a diverse group of individuals can leverage their unique differences to benefit everyone in the nation. The continuity of past temple worship and service was being passed on to them. In addition to the visible aspects of temple worship and service, there was the unseen responsibility to uphold the law and support the prophets who spoke for God.
The value of following certain practices lies in their effectiveness. They are effective because they represent what God arranged; He knows and determines what is right or wrong. Outward, visible practices indicate inward appreciation and worship. Obedience to God and His word is much more than mere formality. We can perform the actions of doing what is right and still remain distant from God. The unseen aspects of our lives are far more important and valuable than mere submission to a form or a king. The returned Jews did not have a king, but they had the Lord God of Israel, His word, and His revealed will through the law and the prophets who spoke for Him.
Israel's hope lay in the concern of individuals for "all Israel," and the promise of a new day when the Messiah would come and fulfill all the promises of God to His earthly people. Our present-day hope and commitment are not toward what pleases or fulfills me, but toward what pleases God and blesses His people through my participation in worship and service. When my role in the things of God is carried out in coordination with others, the entire company of saints is blessed. This legacy we have inherited of worship and service as a testimony to our Lord Jesus Christ is best served and preserved when order is maintained. Order in the work of God can be upheld through delegated responsibility.
The list of priests begins with the sixteen sons of Eleazar and the eight sons of Ithamar. The sin of Nadab and Abihu is not mentioned here because it serves no purpose in establishing the order and structure of the priestly ministry that was to begin again. When things are done "decently and in order," we are free to respond to the guidance of the Holy Spirit without confusion. The Spirit controls participation in ways that are appropriate to the event and need. In this way, we can bring glory to God, and there is calmness and freedom because preparation in advance has opened our hearts under divine guidance.
Eleazar took the place of the firstborn after his elder brothers died. He received the double portion of the firstborn and the leadership responsibilities that came with that position. He had more sons than Ithamar, and they may have had greater leadership abilities, which were passed on to his progeny. Zacharias the priest, who was the father of John the Baptist, was one of the future priests from Eleazar's son Abijah. He lived in the "hill country" of Judea and heard about the miracle of John's birth while fulfilling his duty in the temple. Each of those priests had a two-week shift to serve as their "course." Afterward, they were free to return to their homes and families. John was a prophet from the priestly family.
The Levites listed in this chapter were those who had specific assignments to fulfill during their shifts at the temple. The variety of duties was clear, so each person coming to perform their service would know what to do to maintain continuity in the flow of temple service. In assembly life, there are ample opportunities for service for all who love the Lord and wish to participate in whatever way they can. Not everyone has the "out-front" work of public speaking or public service. There is equally important work to do that is known only by the Lord, and He is the One who counts when it comes to making our lives meaningful.
Some individuals served as administrators, supervising the work, while others acted as judges. Those in charge of the ministry were the priests and their assistants. Caretakers and bakers constituted the service department of the temple. Financial duties were allocated to those managing the treasury and the donations received. They needed to maintain precise records of these matters to prevent any accusations of theft or fraud regarding what belongs to the Lord. The artistic individuals included singers and musicians who were required to know the psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
Perhaps there were artisans tasked with maintaining the temple's decorative elements. The responsibility for the temple's protection fell to the gatekeepers, who needed to understand who was entering the temple, why they were coming, where they were going, and whom they would meet. Throughout the collaborative process, order was upheld, even if it seemed confusing to an outsider. This was particularly evident in the temple when our Lord was present. Order had deteriorated, resulting in a chaotic blend of worship, business, and pleasure, leaving little for God within it.
In the work of the Lord today, just as in ancient times, specific roles are designated for individuals. Ezra was a scribe. Gad was a seer/prophet. There were, and still are, "chief men among the brethren." These responsibilities do not contradict the united teamwork of the temple service. There are opportunities for private exercise within the assemblies of God's people, but this must align with the overall objectives guided by the Holy Spirit. This objective is achieved through those He has raised up to lead and nurture the Lord's people.
"Casting lots" or the impartial designation of work is a means to avoid showing favoritism or "respect of persons." David, along with the priests and leaders of the people, was present when lots were cast to ensure fairness for both the older and the younger.
I wonder how many are truly willing to commit to the service of the Lord. Are there those ready to step out in real faith and trust God? Can they rely on God to lead and provide for them, using what they have for Him? Am I prepared to step out in faith? Am I willing to help and guide them? George Campbell’s last words, “Sixteen men for God!” were like this: I wonder what he truly meant. Was it a prayer or a challenge to carry on the work to which he was sent? Sixteen chief men could accomplish a lot of work if they were sent into God’s field today. Are there those who will rise to the work and do whatever God says?
Eight groups of two by two, or four groups of four; the impact of sixteen men actively involved in the work of the Lord would stir the hearts of many people. Perhaps it would lead to a revival among the Lord’s people here. Then a time of visitation would begin and affect God’s work elsewhere. Sixteen men with Bibles in their hands and committed to getting God’s Word into their hearts; sixteen men willing to go out in faith alone.
Although they may not know where to start, sixteen men who desire what is right and are willing to pay the price of committing themselves unreservedly and going out to do what is right can count on the Lord to guide them. Sixteen men willing to venture beyond their present comfort zone; men who are willing to be used and can catch a vision of their own will be guided by the Holy Spirit to the place He chooses. Faithful men can be trusted to serve God faithfully, and they know the consequences of their work will influence others for eternity.
I wonder if I have been blind to the gifted people I already know. Are there those who will rise to the challenge if I show an interest in them now? If I have been remiss in overlooking some who desire leadership, then I’m the one at fault who needs my heart to be stirred up. If there are those God has called to serve, I want God to open my eyes and let them know what I believe. If I, in pride, spend my time looking back, I need to be humbled and make myself available once again to serve the Lord in other ways. Then maybe revival and times of visitation will come when I heed God’s Word.
Have I been overlooking what is right in front of me? Have I been so self-centered that I haven’t shown interest in those who are seeking leadership in this very place? Forgive me, O God, and please open the way for me to take young men with us again to labor in the field.