I Chronicles 1-3

“Adam, Seth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah ...” (1:1). Chronicles opens not just with the story of Israel, but the story of all humanity, starting with Adam. While the author focuses on Jacob/Israel’s descendants (2:1) and their special history, the perspective is global. The children of Hagar and Keturah (Abraham’s concubines) are mentioned, and Esau’s line (ch 1). Naming these non-Hebrew peoples reminds us of God’s promise to Abraham that “all peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3).

God’s faithful love to Israel spilled over to bless the whole world. “He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:14).