There was probably a great desire for people to settle in and work their own land for food and to make a living. But for the land to no stability the capital needed to be populated and flourish. So one in ten were chosen by lots to live in Jerusalem (v1). The people were willing to do this (v2); they were concerned for the common good of the people.

In our decision making about our involvement among God’s people, we need to be concerned for the common good of all. There is no room for selfishness.

The leaders take the lead in living in Jerusalem (v3). Leaders above all others need to be concerned for the common good.

Different groups are mentioned as living in Jerusalem. There are first the sons of Judah (v4-6), then the sons of Benjamin (v7-9), then the priests (v10-14), then the Levites (v15-18) and finally the gatekeepers (19).

Of the original 12 tribes of Israel only three, Judah, Benjamin and Levi are represented back in the Promised Land. Due to sin and judgment, the people of God are only a remnant of what they once were.

We see also here good organisation and leadership among the people (v20-24). God’s people need to be organised and well led. Pray for this.

The rest of the people lived outside Jerusalem with the tribe of Judah to the south (v25-30) and Benjamin to the north of Jerusalem (v31-36).