Bible Commentaries
1 Chronicles 24

Verses 1-31

With great care and perfect democracy of choice the courses of the priests were next set in order. There was a tactful mingling in the arrangement of the older and the younger men, so that in this highest and holiest national service the experience of age and the enthusiasm of youth were naturally inspiring.

A description of these men in this chapter is very suggestive. They are called "princes of the sanctuary and princes of God." In neither half of the description is there any thought of their exercising rule. They had no authority over the sanctuary; nor, of necessity, over God. Yet they were princes, and were to exercise authority.

This description indicates the source of their authority rather than its sphere of operation. Their government consisted in their obedience in the sanctuary to the will of God. This is always the only authority of priests. By obedience to all the service of God in the holy places and things, they are to make possible the people's approach to God in order that they (the people) may by direct contact render obedience to His sovereign rule.

The true exercises of New Testament priesthood consists in this today. In proportion as we of the kingdom of priests exercise our holy service in perfect submission to the will of God in daily life we exercise the true authority among men of that mediation which attracts them to God, and makes possible their immediate dealing with Him.