NUMBER TWENTY-FOUR (24)

(Message by Tanny Keng)

1. The Meaning of Numbers: The Number 24

a) The number 24 is associated with the priesthood. Since it is composed of a multiple of 12, it takes on some of 12's meaning (which is God's power and authority, as well as perfect foundation) except in a higher form. Twenty-four, therefore, is also connected with the worship of God, especially at the temple.

b) It was King David who divided those responsible for the music in temple services, those who served as priests, and the Levites who aided the priests, into 24 courses (1Chronicles 23 - 24). When a particular course of priests served they usually divided their work amongst themselves by lot.

c) The order which the 24 courses of priests served in the temple are: 1) Jehoiarib; 2) Jedaiah; 3) Harim; 4) Seorim; 5) Malchijah; 6) Mijamin; 7) Hakkoz; 8) Abijah; 9) Jeshua; 10) Shecaniah; 11) Eliashib; 12) Jakim; 13) Huppah; 14) Jeshebeab; 15) Bilgah; 16) Immer; 17) Hezir; 18) Happizzez; 19) Pethahiah; 20) Jehezkel; 21) Jachin; 22) Gamul; 23) Delaiah; 24) Maaziah (1Chronicles 24).

d) The New Testament makes reference to one of the priestly courses when it states that the father of John the Baptist was a priest who served in Abia's (Abijah's) course (Luke 1:5). Abijah's course was the eighth one that rotated responsibilities with other priests.

2. Appearances of the number twenty-four

a) Although the book of Luke only has twenty-four chapters, it has more words the Acts, which has 28 chapters. Therefore, in a real sense, it is correct to say that Luke is the longest New Testament book.

b) Of the top five New Testament writings that contain the most material from the Old Testament, the book of Mark has content from a total number of 24 books.

c) Baasha, the third king of Israel to reign after the kingdom split in 930 B.C., ruled for 24 years.

3. How is the number 24 related to Christ's rule?

a) Psalm 72 lists 24 things that Jesus Christ, as High Priest after the order of Melchizedek, will do when He sits upon His throne and rules as King and Priest during the Millennium.

1. He will righteously judge the people
2. He will judge, with justice, the poor and needy
3. Peace will be brought by the mountains
4. Small hills shall also experience peace
5. He shall judge the poor
6. He shall save the children of the needy
7. Those who oppress will be crushed
8. He shall rule like rain upon grass
9. He shall rule like the water that showers the globe
10. He will cause the righteous to flourish
11. He will bring the righteous an abundance of peace
12. He shall rule from sea to sea
13. He shall rule from the river unto the ends of the earth.
14. When he hears the needy cry out he will deliver him
15. The poor and those who have no help will also be delivered
16. Those who are needy and weak will receive compassion
17. The lives of those in need will be saved
18. The needy who are oppressed and experience violence will be redeemed
19. The blood of those in need will be precious in His sight
20. He will cause an abundance of grain on the earth
21. He will bring an abundance of fruit
22. He will make those of the city flourish like grass
23. He will make His name to be continued
24. He will bless all men 

4. Additional information on the Biblical Meaning of 24

a) Around God’s heavenly throne are 24 elders, each wearing crowns and sitting on thrones, who (possibly) assist him in the governing of the universe (Revelation 4:1 - 4).

The End ...