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A family tree

1 Chronicles simply explained

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A FAMILY TREE
1 Chronicles simply explained
By Andrew Stewart
Evangelical Press. 222 pages. £6.99
ISBN 0 85234 393 0

The opening chapters of 1 Chronicles are largely devoted to genealogical lists - not, perhaps, the most promising material for a commentary. However, these, and the following chapters, are well handled by Mr. Stewart in this useful addition to the Welwyn Commentary Series.

The author is keen to stress that all of Scripture is inspired by God and show how study of this portion of the Old Testament can be profitable. The genealogical lists begin with Adam, demonstrating that the message of Chronicles is applicable to all mankind. Chronicles is written to show how history displays the faithfulness of God as he fulfils his promises. In 1 Chronicles, God's purposes find their focus in King David and in the temple, but Chronicles points beyond that immediate history to David's Greater Son, Jesus.

Mr. Stewart often uses links between various Bible passages for powerful illustration and application of the message of Chronicles. For instance, the Chronicler's narrative concerning David's warriors (mighty men of valour) is used as a backcloth to David's words in Psalm 110.3: 'Your troops will be willing in the day of battle' and the challenge is then issued to us: 'Are we loyal servants of the King of kings?'. Abraham's (all but) sacrifice of his son, Isaac, is linked with the site where the outpouring of God's anger was stayed (1 Chronicles 21), the temple was built and, ultimately, Jesus was put to death. These links provide valuable lessons concerning the holy character of God and the atoning work of Christ. Such exposition can easily become fanciful, losing sight of the text being expounded, but Mr. Stewart does not lose track of the Chronicler's theme. Whether you are a preacher looking for help with a new series of sermons or simply a Christian seeking to profit more from your reading of the Old Testament, this book is worth far more than its modest price.

Peter Misselbrook