The Genius of genealogy: meditations in 1 Chronicles 1-9

I've often heard or read that 1 Chronicles 1-9 is the driest section in the bible. That may be like asking what part of the ocean is driest.

I think the reason the passage is seen as boring is a general lack of knowledge of the Old Testament (that's on you, D.A. ;-). The original audience of the book has this vast familiarity with the narrative and instruction inherent in many of these names.

Chapter one gives us a large sweep of the entire book of Genesis, from Adam to Jacob in one simple chapter.

Chapter two brings us several negative examples to learn from. The name Er (2.3-4) reminds us of the lessons and story of Genesis 38. The name Achan (2.7) brings to mind Joshua 7.10.

Chapter three brings us to David's descendents. I read Darryl Bock's very interesting excursus on the subject of differing Christological genealogies in Matthew and Luke.

Chapter four brings us to the no longer obscure story of Jabez.

Chapter five contrasts the noble descendants of Gad (5.20) with the disgraceful descendents of Manasseh (5.25).

Chapter six brings in my personal favorite, Zadok (6.8, 53), as well as famous authors Heman (33), and Asaph (39).

Chapter seven fills in several other tribes, and has Joshua son of Nun (Ex 17.9) as it's celebrity.

Chapter eight combines the descendents of Benjamin with the genealogy of Saul.

Chapter nine tells us that Judah was taken captive "because of their breach of faith" (1 - see also 10:13 for Saul's parallel) but holds up Phinehas as a noble example (20). Also, more Zadok (11) and a great defense of the role of church musicians (33).