1 And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel.
2 And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim, which Asa his father had taken.
3 And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto Baalim;
4 But sought to the Lord God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the doings of Israel.
5 Therefore the LORD stablished the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah brought to Jehoshaphat presents; and he had riches and honor in abundance.
6 And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the LORD: moreover he took away the high places and groves out of Judah.
7 Also in the third year of his reign he sent to his princes, even to Benhail, and to Obadiah, and to Zechariah, and to Nethaneel, and to Michaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah.
8 And with them he sent Levites, even Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asahel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehonathan, and Adonijah, and Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests.
9 And they taught in Judah, and had the book of the law of the LORD with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people.
10 And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.
11 Also some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents, and tribute silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks, seven thousand and seven hundred rams, and seven thousand and seven hundred he goats.
12 And Jehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly; and he built in Judah castles, and cities of store.
13 And he had much business in the cities of Judah: and the men of war, mighty men of valor, were in Jerusalem.
14 And these are the numbers of them according to the house of their fathers: Of Judah, the captains of thousands; Adnah the chief, and with him mighty men of valor three hundred thousand.
15 And next to him was Jehohanan the captain, and with him two hundred and fourscore thousand.
16 And next him was Amasiah the son of Zichri, who willingly offered himself unto the LORD; and with him two hundred thousand mighty men of valor.
17 And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valor, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand.
18 And next him was Jehozabad, and with him an hundred and fourscore thousand ready prepared for the war.
19 These waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.
The book of 2 Chronicles is the second book of the Chronicles in the Old Testament of the Holy Bible. It is believed to be written by Ezra, a priest and scribe, and covers the history of the Kingdom of Judah from the reign of King Solomon to the fall of Jerusalem. The book is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on the reign of King Solomon and the second part focusing on the reigns of the kings of Judah after the division of the kingdom.
Chapter 17 of 2 Chronicles is part of the second section of the book and focuses on the reign of King Jehoshaphat, who was the fourth king of Judah after the division of the kingdom. This chapter highlights the main events and themes of King Jehoshaphat's reign and provides insight into the character of this king and his relationship with God.
1. Jehoshaphat's Faithfulness to God
The main theme of chapter 17 is King Jehoshaphat's faithfulness to God. The chapter begins by stating that Jehoshaphat succeeded his father Asa as king of Judah and that he walked in the ways of his father's early reign, which were pleasing to God. This is significant because it shows that Jehoshaphat was committed to following God's commandments and living a righteous life.
2. Jehoshaphat's Religious Reforms
Another important theme in this chapter is Jehoshaphat's religious reforms. The chapter mentions that Jehoshaphat sent his officials to teach the people of Judah the law of the Lord. He also sent Levites and priests to travel throughout the kingdom and teach the people the law. This shows that Jehoshaphat was dedicated to promoting the worship of God and ensuring that the people of Judah knew and followed the law.
3. God's Blessings on Jehoshaphat
The chapter also highlights the blessings that God bestowed upon Jehoshaphat because of his faithfulness. It is mentioned that God established Jehoshaphat's kingdom and made him prosperous. This is a clear indication that God rewards those who are faithful to Him and follow His commandments.
4. Jehoshaphat's Military Strength
Another theme in this chapter is Jehoshaphat's military strength. It is mentioned that Jehoshaphat had a large and well-equipped army, which included soldiers from all the tribes of Judah. This demonstrates that Jehoshaphat was a strong and capable king, who was able to defend his kingdom from potential threats.
5. Alliance with Ahab
The final theme in this chapter is Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab, the king of Israel. Ahab was known for his wickedness and disobedience to God, and it was highly unusual for a king of Judah to form an alliance with him. This alliance ultimately led to problems for Jehoshaphat, as Ahab's influence and wickedness influenced Jehoshaphat to make unwise decisions.
Chapter 17 of 2 Chronicles provides valuable lessons and insights for readers. The main message of this chapter is the importance of being faithful to God and following His commandments. Jehoshaphat's faithfulness and dedication to promoting the worship of God resulted in blessings and prosperity for his kingdom. This serves as a reminder that God rewards those who are faithful to Him.
The chapter also highlights the importance of religious education and reform. Jehoshaphat's actions of sending officials, Levites, and priests to teach the people of Judah the law of the Lord show the importance of educating people about God's commandments and promoting righteous living. This is a lesson that is still relevant in today's world, as the knowledge and understanding of God's word is crucial for living a faithful and righteous life.
The chapter also serves as a warning against forming alliances with those who do not share the same values and beliefs. Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab led to negative consequences, as Ahab's wickedness influenced Jehoshaphat to make unwise decisions. This is a reminder to be cautious of the company we keep and to not let others lead us astray from our faith.
In conclusion, chapter 17 of 2 Chronicles provides valuable lessons and insights into the reign of King Jehoshaphat. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God, religious education and reform, and the consequences of forming alliances with those who do not share the same values and beliefs. These lessons are still relevant in today's world and serve as a reminder for readers to stay true to their faith and follow God's commandments.
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