Genesis 10:21-32 – Shem’s Descendants
Shem’s descendants are given in these verses, but they also tell us something about Shem himself. First, Shem is called the ancestor of all the sons of Eber. Eber is his great-grandson. Why is Shem called the father of all his children rather than Arphaxad or Shelah? Why is Eber singled out? Probably because Abraham and his children, God’s covenant people, not only come from Eber, but from him get the name Hebrews. The language that Eber’s family continued to speak would become the Hebrew language. So, basically, Shem is being called the father of the Hebrews. This is a great honour – to be the father of God’s chosen people.
Shem has received the greatest blessing. This is the blessing of having God’s covenant people descend from him. However, the day will come, as we see in Acts, when children of Japheth and Ham, along with Shem’s descendants will all be included in God’s kingdom through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.
Questions
- Who is Shem called the ancestor of?
- Why is Eber special?
- What is Shem’s great blessing?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks that God’s kingdom is open to all who believe in Christ.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters