2 Chronicles
Bible
Study Class — 2 Chronicles
"learning to praising God with
true worship and faithful service."
Quick Overview
The book of 2 Chronicles recounts the history of Judah—from Solomon’s glorious reign and the dedication of the Temple, to the nation’s exile in Babylon over four centuries later. Unlike other histories, 2 Chronicles focuses on the spiritual lessons found in the lives of kings and leaders. It highlights not only their successes, but also how genuine reform, heartfelt worship, and humble repentance open a path to restoration and blessing, no matter the failures of the past.
Session 1: Building Something That Lasts — 2 Chronicles 2:1-18, 3:1-5:1
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: Creating a legacy requires wisdom, planning, and dependence on God
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how Solomon carefully planned every detail of the temple.
Watch for the way he sought help from skilled craftsmen and gathered the finest materials.
Pay attention to how long this important project took to complete.
Personal Reflection Questions
If you could build one thing that would still be standing 100 years from now, what would it be and why?
What's the most meaningful project you've ever worked on that required patience and careful planning?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 2:1-18, 3:1-5:1
Overview
Solomon's temple project teaches us timeless lessons about building something that matters. Just as Solomon invested years in planning and construction, we live in a world that values quick results and instant success. Yet the most important things in life—strong families, deep friendships, and solid faith—require the same patience and careful attention Solomon gave to God's house. This passage reminds us that lasting legacies aren't built overnight.
This May Surprise You
Many people think Solomon built the temple quickly because he was so wise and wealthy. However, the actual construction took seven years, and the planning phase likely took even longer. Solomon understood that rushing God's work leads to poor results. He knew that excellence requires time, and honoring God demands our very best effort, even when it takes longer than we'd like.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Solomon gathered the finest materials (2 Chronicles 2:3-10) Comment: Solomon didn't cut corners when building for God. He requested the best cedar wood, skilled craftsmen, and precious metals. This shows us that God deserves our finest efforts, not our leftovers.
Point 2: Solomon sought help from experts (2 Chronicles 2:7, 13-14) Comment: Even though Solomon was the wisest man alive, he recognized his limitations. He asked King Hiram for skilled workers who could do what he couldn't. True wisdom includes knowing when to ask for help.
Point 3: Solomon followed God's specific plans (2 Chronicles 3:3) Comment: The temple was built according to the pattern God had given to David. Solomon didn't change the design to match his personal preferences. Following God's way, not our own ideas, leads to lasting success.
Point 4: The work took seven years to complete (1 Kings 6:38) Comment: Good things take time to build properly. Solomon could have rushed the job, but he knew that God's house deserved careful, patient work. The same principle applies to building our character and relationships.
Take-Home Thought
Solomon's temple project reveals God's heart for permanence and beauty. God doesn't want temporary, thrown-together solutions in our spiritual lives. He desires to build something lasting through us—character that endures trials, relationships that survive difficulties, and faith that stands firm through changing times.
The temple Solomon built was eventually destroyed, but the principles behind its construction remain forever. When we invest time in prayer, study God's word carefully, and seek wise counsel from mature believers, we're building spiritual foundations that will outlast any earthly structure. The question isn't whether we're building something—we all are. The question is whether what we're building will honor God and bless future generations.
Quotes
Charles Spurgeon: "The temple of Solomon was the most magnificent building ever erected by human hands, but it was built according to a divine pattern. So must our lives be—not according to worldly wisdom, but according to the eternal blueprint found in God's Word."
John MacArthur: "Solomon's careful preparation for the temple teaches us that God is honored not by hasty, careless service, but by thoughtful, excellent work that reflects His character and glory."
Biblical Connections
God's dwelling place: Echoes the Tabernacle instructions in Exodus 25-40, showing God's consistent desire to dwell among His people
Skilled craftsmen: Connects to Exodus 31:1-6, where God filled Bezalel and Oholiab with skill to build the Tabernacle
Cedar from Lebanon: References the same source David used (1 Chronicles 22:4), showing continuity in God's plan
Seven years of building: Parallels the seven days of creation, suggesting completion and perfection in God's timing
Following divine patterns: Reflects Hebrews 8:5, where earthly things are copies of heavenly realities
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
Just as Solomon trusted God's timing and methods for building the temple, we can trust God's timing and methods for building our lives. When progress seems slow or when we face setbacks in our spiritual growth, we can remember that God is more interested in doing things right than doing things quickly. His plans for us are always worth the wait, and His way of building character in us will create something beautiful and lasting.
Devotional Thought: Building for Tomorrow
Solomon didn’t just decide one morning to build a temple. He planned, gathered, asked for help, and sought wisdom. He knew this wasn’t just about stone and cedar—it was about creating something that honored God long after he was gone.
There’s a quiet old man in my neighborhood. Most days, you can see him working in his garden, even if no one else ever visits. A friend once asked, “Why plant so many trees when you’re this age?” The man smiled and said, “I plant them for those who come after me. Shade is a gift I can still give.”
That’s what Solomon did—he prepared a place for people to meet with God long after he would be buried. His careful building wasn’t for himself, but for the generations that would come and worship there.
Matthew Henry once wrote, “Those who do the most for God are often those who prepare the way for others.”
Your legacy doesn’t have to be loud. It can be a prayer whispered daily, a note sent to someone lonely, or a word of encouragement to someone younger. Like Solomon, you may never see the full results—but you’re still building something that lasts.
Culture Connection
In today’s world, we’re surrounded by quick fixes and short attention spans. People chase fast results and instant rewards. But Solomon’s story reminds us that the most important things take time, care, and deep trust in God. In a culture that often values the temporary, God calls us to invest in what is eternal — faith, wisdom, and spiritual legacy. These are things no one can take away, and they last far beyond our years.
Thought Patterns from Solomon’s Example
1. Legacy Thinking
Description:
Instead
of thinking only about today, legacy thinking asks, “How will
this decision affect others tomorrow — or even years from now?”
It’s about choosing what will bless future generations, even if we
don’t see the results ourselves.
Reference:
“My
father David had it in his heart to build a temple for the Name of
the Lord, the God of Israel.” – 2 Chronicles 6:7
(While
not in the reading directly, this verse shows David’s long-term
vision, carried out by Solomon.)
Comment:
Legacy
thinking shapes Christian living by shifting our focus from what we
can gain now to what we can give forward. It teaches us to pass down
faith, wisdom, and a godly example — whether to our families, our
church, or even just one person we mentor or pray for.
2. Dependence on God’s Wisdom
Description:
Solomon
didn’t rely on his own strength or cleverness. He asked for skilled
workers, precious materials, and above all, God’s guidance.
Dependence on God’s wisdom means admitting we don’t have all the
answers — but trusting that God does.
Reference:
“But
who is able to build a temple for him, since the heavens, even the
highest heavens, cannot contain him?” – 2 Chronicles 2:6
Comment:
This
mindset helps us stay humble. When we stop trying to do everything on
our own and instead invite God into our plans, we build stronger
lives — not just for us, but for others too. It reminds us that
spiritual legacy isn't about personal greatness; it's about pointing
others to the greatness of God.
Session
2: When God Shows Up in Our Gathering — 2 Chronicles 5:2-7:22
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: God desires to dwell among His people when they gather in reverence
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how the priests and musicians worked together in perfect harmony. Watch for the moment when God's glory filled the temple so powerfully that the priests couldn't continue their duties. Pay attention to Solomon's prayer and God's response with fire from heaven.
Personal Reflection Questions
Describe a time when you felt God's presence strongly during a church service or group gathering. What made that moment special?
If you could ask God one question about worship, what would it be?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 5:2-7:22
Overview
In our modern world, we often treat church attendance casually, arriving late and leaving early without much thought. Social media and busy schedules compete for our attention even during worship services. But Solomon's temple dedication shows us what happens when people gather with genuine reverence and unity. When God's people come together with prepared hearts, focused minds, and sincere worship, God shows up in powerful ways. This ancient celebration reminds us that corporate worship isn't just a nice tradition—it's a divine appointment where heaven touches earth.
This May Surprise You
The priests couldn't finish their duties because God's presence was so overwhelming (2 Chronicles 5:14). This wasn't a gentle, peaceful feeling—it was so intense that grown men who had served in the temple their entire lives couldn't continue working. Many Christians today have never experienced anything close to this level of God's presence in their church gatherings. This suggests we might be missing something important about how we approach worship and what we should expect when we gather in God's name.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Unity in worship brings God's presence (2 Chronicles 5:13) Comment: The musicians and singers performed "as one" to praise God. Their unity in purpose and timing created the perfect atmosphere for God to reveal Himself. When church members come together with one heart and voice, something supernatural happens.
Point 2: God's glory filled the temple (2 Chronicles 5:14) Comment: The cloud of God's presence was so thick that the priests stopped their work. This wasn't just a feeling or emotion—it was a visible, overwhelming reality. God still desires to manifest His presence when we gather with reverent hearts.
Point 3: Solomon prayed with humility and honesty (2 Chronicles 6:18-21) Comment: Even though Solomon built this magnificent temple, he acknowledged that no building could contain God. His prayer was both confident and humble, asking God to hear prayers offered in this place while recognizing God's greatness.
Point 4: God responded with fire and promise (2 Chronicles 7:1-3) Comment: Fire came down from heaven to consume the sacrifices, and God promised to hear prayers offered in this place. God didn't just accept their worship—He confirmed it with supernatural signs and made commitments for the future.
Take-Home Thought
The temple dedication wasn't just a one-time historical event—it's a picture of what God wants to do every time His people gather. When we come to church with prepared hearts, when we sing with genuine praise, and when we pray with sincere faith, we create space for God to show up in powerful ways.
Too often we attend church services like spectators at a performance, checking our phones and thinking about lunch plans. But God invites us to be participants in something much greater—a meeting between heaven and earth. The same God who filled Solomon's temple with His glory still desires to manifest His presence among us today. The question isn't whether God will show up, but whether we'll prepare our hearts to recognize Him when He does. Corporate worship isn't just about what we can get from God, but about creating a place where His glory can be revealed to our community and world.
Quotes
A.W. Tozer: "The most important thing about worship is not the worship itself, but the object of our worship. When we gather with pure hearts focused entirely on God's greatness, we create the conditions where His presence can be powerfully known."
Martyn Lloyd-Jones: "There is nothing more wonderful than when the living God comes down and manifests His presence in the midst of His gathered people. This is what the early church knew, and this is what every generation of believers should expect and pursue."
Biblical Connections
God's glory cloud: Echoes Exodus 40:34-35 when God's glory filled the Tabernacle, showing continuity of God's desire to dwell with His people
Unity in worship: Connects to Psalm 133:1-3 about the blessing when believers dwell together in unity
Fire from heaven: References Leviticus 9:24 and 1 Kings 18:38, showing God's supernatural confirmation of true worship
God hearing prayers: Parallels Jesus' promise in Matthew 18:20 that where two or three gather in His name, He is present
Solomon's humble prayer: Reflects the spirit of 2 Chronicles 7:14 about humble prayer and seeking God's face
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we feel distant from God or when our faith feels dry, this passage reminds us that God hasn't changed His desire to be close to His people. Just as He filled Solomon's temple with His presence, He wants to fill our gatherings today with His glory. We can trust that when we come together with other believers in genuine worship and prayer, God will meet us there. Even when we don't feel His presence dramatically, we can have confidence that He keeps His promises to be with us when we gather in His name.
Devotional Thought: The Empty Chair
In a small church on a quiet street, there’s an old wooden chair that sits near the front pew. No one ever sits in it. When asked why it’s there, the pastor simply says, “That’s the Lord’s chair. It reminds us He’s here when we gather.”
When Solomon finished building the temple and the people gathered to dedicate it, something remarkable happened. Scripture says, “the glory of the Lord filled the temple” (2 Chronicles 5:14). The priests couldn’t even perform their duties because God’s presence was so real, so overwhelming, they had to stop and worship.
God didn’t stay far off. He came close.
That’s still His desire today—not just to be honored from a distance, but to dwell among us when we come together with reverence and humble hearts. Whether it’s a room filled with worshippers or just a few faithful ones in a quiet chapel, God shows up.
A.W. Tozer once said, “God is not present where He is not wanted.” But when His people come hungry for Him, He draws near.
Maybe our buildings are smaller now. Maybe our songs aren’t as loud. But if we come with hearts tuned to Him, we can still experience His glory—not in smoke or fire, but in peace, joy, and the deep knowing that He is here.
Culture Connection
In today’s world, many people live fast-paced, disconnected lives. Even though we have more ways to connect than ever, loneliness and spiritual dryness are common. For those of us who have attended church faithfully for years, it’s easy to forget the wonder of what happens when God’s people come together to worship Him with open hearts.
The story of Solomon dedicating the temple reminds us that worship isn’t just tradition—it’s an invitation for God to show up. His glory filled the temple not because of the building itself, but because His people came together in unity and reverence. That truth still matters today. When we gather with sincere hearts, God’s presence is not only possible—it’s promised.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Expectancy — Believing that God will meet us in worship
Description:
Instead
of thinking worship is a routine or something we just “go through,”
we begin to expect God to meet us—just like He did in Solomon’s
temple. Expectancy means preparing our hearts, coming in prayer, and
looking forward to hearing from God, even if we’re just a few
people in a quiet room.
Reference:
“The
priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the
glory of the Lord filled the temple of God.” — 2 Chronicles
5:14 (NIV)
Comment:
This
mindset helps us take worship seriously. It changes our attitude from
“going to church” to “going to meet with God.” Even when
we're older and life slows down, we can still approach each gathering
with faith that He will be there—and that changes everything.
Trait 2: Reverence — Honoring God’s holiness in our gatherings
Description:
Reverence
is a deep respect that shapes how we think and behave in God’s
presence. In today’s culture, many things are casual—even
spiritual things. But reverence reminds us that we serve a holy God
who deserves our full attention, humility, and awe.
Reference:
“When
Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the
burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled
the temple.” — 2 Chronicles 7:1 (NIV)
Comment:
Reverence
teaches us to slow down and approach God with the honor He deserves.
It makes us more thoughtful in prayer, more thankful in worship, and
more aware that we are never just “attending church”—we are
stepping into the presence of the King.
Session
3: Enjoying God's Blessings Responsibly — 2 Chronicles 8:1-9:31
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: Prosperity is a gift from God that requires faithful stewardship
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how Solomon used his wealth to build cities and strengthen his kingdom. Watch for the way other nations were amazed by his wisdom and prosperity. Pay attention to how Solomon's success brought glory to God rather than just to himself.
Personal Reflection Questions
What blessing in your life do you sometimes take for granted that you should be more thankful for?
If you suddenly received a large inheritance, what would be the first thing you'd want to do with it?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 8:1-9:31
Overview
We live in a culture obsessed with getting more—more money, more possessions, more experiences. Social media feeds us constant images of people living their "best life" with luxury vacations and expensive purchases. Meanwhile, many Christians feel guilty about enjoying any material blessings, thinking that godliness requires poverty. Solomon's reign shows us a different way to think about prosperity. God can bless His people with abundance, but those blessings come with responsibility. The key isn't avoiding prosperity, but learning to handle it in ways that honor God and serve others.
This May Surprise You
Solomon's incredible wealth wasn't something he pursued for personal pleasure—it was a tool God used to display His glory to other nations. The Queen of Sheba didn't travel hundreds of miles to see Solomon's bank account. She came because his wisdom and prosperity were so extraordinary that they pointed beyond human achievement to the God who had blessed him. Many people today think wealth and spirituality don't mix, but Solomon shows us that material blessings can actually become a witness to God's goodness when handled properly.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Solomon used his wealth to build and strengthen (2 Chronicles 8:1-6) Comment: Instead of hoarding his riches, Solomon invested in infrastructure that would benefit his entire kingdom. He built cities, storage facilities, and defensive positions. Wise people use their blessings to create lasting value for others, not just temporary pleasure for themselves.
Point 2: Solomon maintained proper worship priorities (2 Chronicles 8:12-16) Comment: Despite his wealth and busy schedule, Solomon continued the regular sacrifices and temple services his father David had established. Prosperity can easily distract us from spiritual disciplines, but Solomon kept God at the center of his success.
Point 3: Solomon's wisdom attracted international attention (2 Chronicles 9:1-8) Comment: The Queen of Sheba came to test Solomon's wisdom and left amazed by what she saw. His prosperity wasn't just personal success—it became a platform for demonstrating God's blessing to the world around him.
Point 4: Solomon acknowledged God as the source of his blessings (2 Chronicles 9:8) Comment: The Queen of Sheba recognized that Solomon's success came from God's love for His people. Solomon's humility and acknowledgment of God's role in his prosperity made his wealth a testimony rather than a source of pride.
Take-Home Thought
Solomon's example teaches us that God isn't opposed to blessing His people with material prosperity, but He expects us to handle those blessings wisely. Whether our blessings include financial resources, good health, loving families, or comfortable homes, they all come with the responsibility to use them in ways that honor God and help others.
The danger isn't in having nice things—it's in forgetting where they came from or using them only for ourselves. Solomon's wealth became a platform for displaying God's wisdom and goodness to the world. Our blessings, whatever they may be, can serve the same purpose. When we use our resources generously, maintain our spiritual priorities, and acknowledge God as the source of our good fortune, our prosperity becomes a testimony to His faithfulness. The goal isn't to feel guilty about God's blessings, but to be faithful stewards who use what we've received to advance His kingdom and serve His people.
Quotes
John Wesley: "Make all you can, save all you can, give all you can. The point of gaining wealth is not to hoard it for ourselves, but to have more resources available for doing good in the world and advancing God's purposes."
Randy Alcorn: "God prospers us not to raise our standard of living, but to raise our standard of giving. Every blessing we receive is an opportunity to demonstrate His generosity through our own generous hearts."
Biblical Connections
Wisdom from God: Echoes James 1:5 where God promises to give wisdom to those who ask, showing continuity of God's desire to make His people wise
Stewardship responsibility: Connects to Luke 12:48 that "to whom much is given, much is required," emphasizing accountability for blessings received
Witnessing through prosperity: Parallels Deuteronomy 8:17-18 where God gives power to gain wealth so His covenant might be established
International recognition: Reflects Isaiah 60:3 where nations come to God's light, showing how God's people can attract others to Him
Acknowledging God's provision: Echoes 1 Chronicles 29:14 where David recognized that everything comes from God's hand
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we struggle with financial concerns or feel envious of others' prosperity, Solomon's example reminds us that God knows how to provide for His people. We can trust that He will give us what we need to accomplish His purposes in our lives. Whether He blesses us with abundance or calls us to live more simply, we can have confidence that His provision is perfect for our situation. When we do receive material blessings, we don't need to feel guilty—we can enjoy them as gifts from a loving Father while using them responsibly to serve Him and others.
Devotional Thought: The Overflowing Cup
An old woman once said, “I never thought I had much, until I started counting what I didn’t deserve.” She lived in a small home, wore the same coat for years, and gave more than she kept. When asked why, she smiled and said, “My cup overflows—I just pass it on.”
Solomon’s kingdom was overflowing too. Gold, silver, wisdom, peace. But what made it truly remarkable was what he did with it. He didn’t hoard it. He built the temple. He welcomed others. He ruled with justice (at least for much of his reign). His prosperity had a purpose—it honored God and blessed people.
2 Chronicles 9:8 records the Queen of Sheba’s words: “Because of the love of your God for Israel and His desire to uphold them forever, He has made you king over them, to maintain justice and righteousness.” She saw that Solomon’s blessings weren’t just for himself.
John Wesley once advised: “Gain all you can, save all you can, give all you can.”
We may not have Solomon’s treasure, but we’ve been blessed—through years of love, lessons, friendships, and faith. Now, the question is: How can we honor God with what we’ve been given?
Even in our later years, we still have something to give—a word of wisdom, a generous spirit, a legacy of faith. God’s blessings are best enjoyed when shared.
Culture Connection
In today’s culture, wealth and success are often seen as ends in themselves—signs of personal achievement or good fortune. People are quick to chase after more, but slow to ask why they’ve been blessed in the first place.
Solomon’s story gives us a different picture. His wealth and wisdom were clear signs of God’s favor, but they came with responsibility. Solomon used his resources to build the temple, lead with justice, and bless others. For us today—whether we have much or little—we are reminded that all we have comes from God, and we are stewards, not owners.
In a world that measures success by accumulation, we’re called to see our blessings as tools to serve others and honor God.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Gratitude — Recognizing all we have comes from God
Description:
Gratitude
changes our thinking from “I earned this” to “God gave this.”
It softens pride and builds trust. Even in retirement, when incomes
are fixed and bodies are slower, gratitude reminds us that we’ve
been carried by God every step of the way.
Reference:
“King
Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of
the earth.” — 2 Chronicles 9:22
Comment:
Solomon
didn’t start with riches—God gave him wisdom first. As we look
back on our lives, we see blessings we didn’t earn: family,
provision, health, peace. Gratitude keeps us humble, and it keeps our
hearts pointed toward the One who provided.
Trait 2: Stewardship — Using blessings to serve, not just store
Description:
Stewardship
means understanding that what we have is not just for us.
Whether it’s money, time, influence, or wisdom from years of life,
it’s all meant to be shared and used well. Solomon used his
resources to build, lead, and give—he didn’t just keep them for
himself.
Reference:
“Solomon
also built up the cities that Huram had given him, and settled
Israelites in them.” — 2 Chronicles 8:2
Comment:
Stewardship
reminds us that our lives are still useful in God's hands. Even in
older age, we can give—through encouragement, wisdom, generosity,
or simply being present. God is honored when we share what He’s
given us, no matter the size.
Session 4: When the Family Splits Apart — 2 Chronicles 10:1-11:23
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: Pride and harsh words can destroy relationships that took years to build
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how the people came to Rehoboam asking for relief from heavy burdens. Watch for the different advice he received from older and younger counselors. Pay attention to how quickly his harsh words led to the permanent division of the kingdom.
Personal Reflection Questions
Think of a time when someone's harsh words hurt you deeply. How did it affect your relationship with that person?
If you could go back and change one conversation that damaged a family relationship, what would you say differently?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 10:1-11:23
Overview
Family conflicts seem more common today than ever before. Adult children stop speaking to their parents over political differences. Siblings fight over inheritance and never reconcile. Holiday gatherings become battlefields where old wounds get reopened with sharp words. Social media makes it easier to say hurtful things we'd never say face to face. Rehoboam's story shows us that even families with great legacies can be destroyed by pride and harsh words. His foolish response to a reasonable request split God's people permanently and caused generations of conflict that could have been avoided with a gentle answer.
This May Surprise You
The people who came to Rehoboam weren't rebels trying to overthrow his authority—they were asking for relief from the heavy work load Solomon had required during his building projects (2 Chronicles 10:4). Their request was reasonable and respectful. They even promised to serve faithfully if he would lighten their burden. Rehoboam had a perfect opportunity to start his reign with the love and loyalty of all his people. Instead, his harsh response created enemies where he could have had devoted followers. Many family splits happen the same way—not because of major betrayals, but because someone responds harshly to a reasonable concern.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Wise elders gave gentle counsel (2 Chronicles 10:6-7) Comment: The older advisors who had served Solomon understood that leadership means serving others, not demanding they serve you. They knew that kind words win hearts while harsh words create enemies. Age and experience had taught them the value of gentle responses.
Point 2: Young friends encouraged harshness (2 Chronicles 10:8-11) Comment: Rehoboam's young friends had never learned the wisdom of restraint. They encouraged him to show his power through threats and tough talk. Their advice felt good to his pride but destroyed his kingdom. Sometimes the counsel that makes us feel strong actually makes us weak.
Point 3: Harsh words split the nation permanently (2 Chronicles 10:12-19) Comment: One conversation changed everything. Rehoboam's angry response turned a request for relief into a full rebellion. Ten tribes walked away and never came back. Words have power to build up or tear down, and once spoken, they can't be taken back.
Point 4: God allowed the consequences to stand (2 Chronicles 11:1-4) Comment: When Rehoboam wanted to fight to get the kingdom back, God told him to stop. The division was now part of God's plan, but it came through human foolishness, not divine desire. God can work through our mistakes, but the pain they cause is real and lasting.
Take-Home Thought
Rehoboam's tragic mistake teaches us that family relationships are both precious and fragile. Years of love and shared history can be destroyed in a single conversation if we choose pride over gentleness. The kingdom split that day didn't happen because of major theological differences or terrible crimes—it happened because a young man chose harsh words when gentle ones would have solved the problem.
Every family faces moments when someone asks for understanding, forgiveness, or simply a kinder approach to old problems. These are defining moments that can either strengthen relationships or destroy them forever. The older counselors understood something Rehoboam's young friends didn't—real strength shows itself through gentleness, not harshness. A soft answer really can turn away anger, but harsh words stir up more conflict. When we're tempted to respond to family members with sharp words or demands for respect, we should remember that the relationships we damage today may never be fully repaired. The price of pride is often higher than we're willing to pay, but by then it's too late to choose differently.
Quotes
Charles Swindoll: "I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. Rehoboam's harsh reaction to a reasonable request cost him three-fourths of his kingdom and created centuries of conflict that could have been avoided with a gentle response."
Warren Wiersbe: "The tragedy of Rehoboam is that he had everything he needed to be a great king—power, resources, and good counsel—but he threw it all away because he chose pride over wisdom. Family relationships often fail the same way, not because love is absent, but because pride gets in the way."
Biblical Connections
Gentle answers: Directly connects to Proverbs 15:1 where "a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger"
Seeking counsel: Echoes Proverbs 27:9 about the value of wise advisors and the danger of ignoring good counsel
Division consequences: Parallels Jesus' words in Mark 3:25 that "a house divided against itself cannot stand"
God's sovereignty: Reflects Romans 8:28 where God works all things together for good, even human mistakes and poor choices
Young vs. old wisdom: Connects to Job 32:7 where age and experience are valued sources of understanding
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When family relationships are broken or strained, this passage reminds us that God can work even through our failures and mistakes. If we've spoken harsh words that damaged relationships, we can trust that it's not too late to seek forgiveness and try to rebuild what was broken. If others have hurt us with their words, we can trust God to heal our hearts and help us respond with grace instead of revenge. Even when relationships can't be fully restored, God can use our pain to make us more compassionate toward others who are hurting and wiser in our future conversations.
Devotional Thought: The Cracked Teacup
A woman once showed me a teacup passed down from her grandmother. It had a long crack down the side, carefully glued. “It broke years ago,” she said, “but I couldn’t bear to throw it away. It still holds tea—if you pour gently.”
That’s how relationships can be. Fragile. Sometimes cracked. And sometimes, like the kingdom under Rehoboam, they split wide open.
When Solomon died, his son Rehoboam took the throne. The people asked him for relief after years of heavy labor. He had a choice: listen to wise, older counsel—or follow the younger, prideful voices. He chose harshness. “My father scourged you with whips,” he said, “I will scourge you with scorpions” (2 Chronicles 10:14).
The result? A once-united kingdom was torn in two.
Pride can build walls. But gentleness, even when things are broken, can hold us together.
Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Charles Spurgeon once warned, “A soft tongue may break hard bones, but a hard word breaks hearts.”
Most of us carry a few cracks from family hurt. But God is a healer. With humility, patience, and love, some relationships can still be mended. Maybe not perfectly—but enough to hold love again, if we pour gently.
Culture Connection
Family fractures are nothing new. Many of us have lived through the pain of strained relationships—with children, siblings, or extended family. In today’s world, pride, quick tempers, and stubborn hearts still tear people apart. Sometimes it’s one careless word. Sometimes it’s years of silence.
Rehoboam’s story reminds us how powerful words can be—for good or for harm. Instead of listening with humility, he spoke with arrogance. Instead of seeking peace, he chose pride. And because of that, a kingdom split in two.
Today, we may not be ruling kingdoms, but we’re still responsible for what we say and how we treat others—especially those in our own families. Reconciliation may take time, but gentle words, humble hearts, and prayerful patience can begin to rebuild what was broken.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Humility — Choosing to listen before speaking
Description:
Humility
helps us pause and consider others before rushing to give our opinion
or defend ourselves. It lets us say, “Maybe I don’t have all the
answers,” and opens the door for peace.
Reference:
“But
Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the
young men who had grown up with him and were serving him.” —
2 Chronicles 10:8
Comment:
Rehoboam
ignored wise counsel because he wanted to appear strong. But true
strength often comes through listening. When we respond with humility
instead of pride, relationships have room to heal. We don’t lose by
listening—we grow.
Trait 2: Gentleness — Speaking with care, not control
Description:
Gentleness
doesn’t mean weakness. It’s strength under control. It’s
choosing kind words even when emotions run high. Gentleness softens
hearts and keeps conflict from getting worse.
Reference:
“My
father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father
scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.” —
2 Chronicles 10:14
Comment:
Rehoboam’s
harsh words broke trust and caused a national split. In our own
families, even one unkind word can leave deep wounds. But a gentle
response, even years later, can begin to rebuild a bridge. It’s
never too late to be kind.
Session
5: Seeking God in Times of Trouble — 2 Chronicles 14:1-16:14
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: Our first response to crisis should be turning to God in prayer
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how Asa removed idols and sought God wholeheartedly in his early years. Watch for his powerful prayer when facing the massive Ethiopian army. Pay attention to the contrast between his trust in God during the first crisis and his reliance on human allies during the later conflict.
Personal Reflection Questions
When you face a serious problem, what is usually your first instinct—to worry, to call someone, to make a plan, or to pray?
Describe a time when you turned to God during a difficult situation and saw Him work in ways you didn't expect.
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 14:1-16:14
Overview
When crisis hits today, our natural response is often to immediately search the internet, call our insurance company, or ask friends for advice on social media. We live in an age where information and human solutions seem readily available for every problem. Yet despite all our resources, anxiety and depression rates continue to climb. King Asa's story shows us two different approaches to handling life's troubles. Early in his reign, his first response was to turn to God in prayer, and he experienced miraculous victories. Later, when facing similar challenges, he turned to human solutions first and suffered defeat. His example teaches us that our first response to trouble reveals where we really place our trust.
This May Surprise You
When Asa faced an army of one million Ethiopians, he didn't panic or immediately start making battle plans (2 Chronicles 14:9-11). Instead, he prayed one of the most honest and desperate prayers in the Bible, admitting that he was powerless and completely dependent on God for help. Many Christians today feel guilty about praying desperate prayers, thinking they show lack of faith. But Asa's prayer actually demonstrated great faith—he believed God was more powerful than impossible odds and was willing to help those who trusted Him completely.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Asa removed idols and sought God (2 Chronicles 14:2-5) Comment: Before the crisis came, Asa had already established a pattern of seeking God and removing things that competed for his attention. When trouble arrived, turning to God was natural because that's what he had been doing all along. Our crisis responses reveal our daily habits.
Point 2: Asa prayed honestly about his weakness (2 Chronicles 14:11) Comment: Asa didn't try to impress God with confident words about his own abilities. He admitted he was powerless and needed God's help desperately. Sometimes the most powerful prayers are the most honest ones about our limitations and fears.
Point 3: God gave complete victory (2 Chronicles 14:12-15) Comment: The Ethiopian army was so thoroughly defeated that they couldn't recover. God didn't just give Asa a narrow victory—He provided overwhelming success that left no doubt about who had won the battle. When we trust God completely, His help often exceeds our expectations.
Point 4: Later, Asa trusted human solutions first (2 Chronicles 16:1-6) Comment: When Baasha threatened him, Asa immediately sent gold to the king of Syria for military help instead of praying first. The same man who had trusted God against impossible odds now turned to human allies for a smaller problem. Success can make us forget our dependence on God.
Take-Home Thought
Asa's life teaches us that our response to trouble is a spiritual barometer—it shows where our real trust lies. When we face health scares, financial problems, or family crises, our first instinct reveals what we truly believe about God's power and care. The irony of Asa's story is that he trusted God when the problem seemed impossible but relied on human help when the problem seemed manageable.
Many of us make the same mistake. We pray about the big, scary things we can't control but try to handle the smaller problems ourselves. Yet God wants to be our first response in every situation, not our last resort when everything else fails. This doesn't mean we shouldn't use doctors, financial advisors, or other human resources—Asa's mistake wasn't getting help, but getting help without first seeking God's guidance. When we develop the habit of turning to God first in small troubles, we'll naturally turn to Him first when big troubles come. Prayer isn't a sign of weakness—it's a sign of wisdom, because it connects us with the only One who has real power to change our circumstances and give us peace in the middle of storms.
The prophet's rebuke to Asa reminds us that "the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him" (2 Chronicles 16:9). God is actively looking for people He can help, but He strengthens those who trust Him completely, not those who trust Him partially while keeping backup plans that leave Him out.
Quotes
George Müller: "The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety. When we truly believe that God cares for us and has power to help us, prayer becomes our natural first response to every difficulty."
J.C. Ryle: "Asa's early victories came through prayer and faith, but his later defeats came through self-confidence and forgetting God. Let us learn that yesterday's faith will not win today's battles—we must seek God freshly for each new challenge we face."
Biblical Connections
Desperate prayer: Echoes Psalm 50:15 where God invites us to call on Him in times of trouble and promises to deliver us
God's searching eyes: Connects to 2 Chronicles 16:9 and Proverbs 15:3 about God's awareness of those who seek Him wholeheartedly
First response to crisis: Parallels Philippians 4:6-7 about bringing every concern to God in prayer instead of being anxious
Trusting in man vs. God: Reflects Jeremiah 17:5-8 contrasting the curse of trusting in human strength with the blessing of trusting in God
God fighting for His people: Echoes Exodus 14:14 where God tells Moses that He will fight while His people remain still
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we're facing health concerns, financial pressures, or family problems, Asa's example reminds us that God hasn't changed—He still has power to help those who turn to Him first. We don't have to have perfect faith or eloquent prayers. We just need to be honest about our need and willing to trust that God cares about our situation. Even if we've made Asa's mistake in the past and tried to handle things without God's help, it's never too late to change our approach. The same God who gave Asa victory over impossible odds is ready to help us today when we make Him our first response instead of our last resort.
Devotional Thought: The Two Storm Shelters
Years ago, a farmer had two storm shelters on his land. One was old, barely used. The other was new, well-lit, and stocked with supplies. But when a tornado came one night, he ran—without thinking—into the old shelter. It’s where he’d always gone in times of trouble. It wasn’t fancy, but it had always kept him safe.
King Asa had a “storm shelter” too—God. In his early years, when enemies threatened Judah, Asa turned to prayer. He cried out, “Lord, there is no one like You to help the powerless against the mighty” (2 Chronicles 14:11). And God gave him victory and peace.
But as years passed and power grew, Asa changed. When a crisis came later in life, instead of turning to God, he turned to politics. He relied on human strength. He even got angry when a prophet called him out—and when illness struck, Scripture says, “he did not seek help from the Lord, but only from the physicians” (16:12).
His story reminds us: Where we automatically run in times of trouble reveals where our trust really is.
Corrie ten Boom once asked, “Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?”
When the storm hits—be it illness, loss, or fear—may our first response be like Asa’s early days: a cry to the One who always shelters us best.
Culture Connection
In our world today, people are quick to turn to experts, medications, news sources, or their own strength when life becomes uncertain. While some of these tools have value, they should never replace our first and most important response: seeking God in prayer.
Many of us know what it’s like to face health scares, financial pressure, or family heartache. It’s easy to start leaning on ourselves, especially if we’ve been independent most of our lives. But King Asa’s story reminds us that no matter how much we’ve experienced or how long we’ve followed God, we are still called to trust Him first—not last. Asa began well, praying in crisis and depending fully on the Lord. But later in life, he began to rely more on his own plans and forgot the One who had carried him all along.
This story reminds us: faith is not a one-time act. It’s a daily decision to trust God—especially in trouble.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Dependence — Trusting God more than ourselves
Description:
Dependence
means admitting we need God’s help—every day. It shifts our
thinking from, “I’ll fix this,” to “Lord, I trust You with
this.” It keeps us praying, even when answers are slow.
Reference:
“Then
Asa called to the Lord his God and said, ‘Lord, there is no one
like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, Lord our
God, for we rely on you.’” — 2 Chronicles 14:11
Comment:
Asa’s
early prayer is a model for us. He didn’t wait until all else
failed—he started with God. When we live with that kind of
dependence, it brings peace in the storm and keeps us from carrying
burdens we were never meant to bear.
Trait 2: Persevering Faith — Trusting God not just once, but for a lifetime
Description:
Persevering
faith means continuing to trust God even as life gets harder or more
uncertain. It’s easy to start strong, but finishing strong takes
prayer, humility, and daily surrender.
Reference:
“Even
in his illness he did not seek help from the Lord, but only from the
physicians.” — 2 Chronicles 16:12
Comment:
Asa
had walked with God for years, yet in his final days, he stopped
seeking Him. This verse is a gentle warning to all of us: no matter
our age or experience, we never outgrow our need for God. True faith
holds on until the very end.
Session
6: The Power of Godly Influence — 2 Chronicles 17:1-20:37
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: One person's faithfulness can impact many lives for generations
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how Jehoshaphat sent teachers throughout the kingdom to teach God's law to the people. Watch for his dependence on God when facing the massive army from Moab and Ammon. Pay attention to how his faithfulness brought peace and prosperity to the entire nation.
Personal Reflection Questions
Who has had the most positive spiritual influence on your life, and how did they impact you?
If someone watched your daily life for a month, what would they learn about following God from your example?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 17:1-20:37
Overview
We live in an age where everyone wants to be an influencer on social media, gathering followers and likes for personal gain. Meanwhile, many Christians underestimate the real influence they already have through their daily lives, relationships, and choices. Jehoshaphat's reign shows us what happens when someone uses their influence to point others toward God rather than toward themselves. As a king, his platform was obviously larger than most, but the principles remain the same. Whether we influence five people or five thousand, our faithfulness to God can create ripple effects that last for generations.
This May Surprise You
Jehoshaphat's greatest victory came not through military strategy but through worship and prayer (2 Chronicles 20:20-24). When facing an enormous enemy army, he put the choir in front of his troops and had them sing praises to God before the battle even began. This seems like military foolishness, but it demonstrated complete trust in God's power to fight for His people. The enemy armies ended up destroying each other while Jehoshaphat's forces watched. Sometimes our greatest influence comes not through what we do, but through demonstrating radical trust in God when others would rely on human wisdom.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Jehoshaphat sent teachers throughout the land (2 Chronicles 17:7-9) Comment: Rather than keeping God's word to himself, Jehoshaphat made sure everyone in his kingdom could learn it. He understood that people can't follow what they don't know. Our influence grows when we share what we've learned about God rather than keeping it private.
Point 2: Other nations respected him because of his faithfulness (2 Chronicles 17:10-11) Comment: Jehoshaphat's commitment to God brought him honor from surrounding kingdoms. They brought him gifts and tribute because they recognized God's blessing on his life. When we live faithfully, even non-Christians often notice something different about us.
Point 3: He sought God's guidance before making major decisions (2 Chronicles 18:4-6, 20:3-4) Comment: Whether facing military alliances or enemy attacks, Jehoshaphat consistently asked for God's direction first. His example shows others that wise people don't make important choices without seeking divine guidance.
Point 4: His trust in God brought victory without fighting (2 Chronicles 20:17-24) Comment: By trusting God completely and leading his people in worship instead of warfare, Jehoshaphat saw God fight the battle for them. His faith gave an entire generation a story they would never forget about God's power and faithfulness.
Take-Home Thought
Jehoshaphat's life reminds us that influence isn't just about having a big platform or speaking to large crowds. It's about consistently living in ways that point others toward God's goodness and power. Every time we choose prayer over worry, every time we treat others with kindness when they don't deserve it, every time we trust God's timing instead of forcing our own plans, we're influencing someone who's watching.
The people around us—our children, grandchildren, neighbors, and friends—are learning what it means to follow God by observing how we handle daily challenges. They're watching to see if our faith makes a real difference in how we face problems, treat difficult people, and respond to disappointments. Jehoshaphat's influence lasted for generations because he didn't just talk about trusting God—he demonstrated it in ways that were impossible to ignore. His radical dependence on God in crisis situations gave his people stories of God's faithfulness that they passed down to their children.
We may never face enemy armies or rule kingdoms, but we all have opportunities to show others what it looks like to trust God completely. Whether we're dealing with health concerns, financial pressures, or family conflicts, our responses can either strengthen or weaken the faith of those who look up to us. The goal isn't to be perfect, but to be authentic about our dependence on God and consistent in pointing others toward His love and power.
Quotes
D.L. Moody: "A man ought to live so that everybody knows he is a Christian, and most of all, his own family ought to know it. Jehoshaphat's influence started in his own household but spread throughout his entire kingdom because his faith was genuine and consistent."
Elisabeth Elliot: "The fact that I am a woman does not make me a different kind of Christian, but the fact that I am a Christian makes me a different kind of woman. Like Jehoshaphat, our identity in God should influence every area of our lives and impact everyone we encounter."
Biblical Connections
Teaching God's word: Echoes Deuteronomy 6:6-9 about the importance of sharing God's instructions with the next generation
Seeking God's guidance: Connects to Proverbs 3:5-6 about trusting God with all our heart and acknowledging Him in all our ways
God fighting for His people: Parallels Exodus 14:14 and Romans 8:31 about God being for us and fighting our battles
Worship before victory: Reflects Psalm 22:3 that God inhabits the praises of His people and 2 Corinthians 2:14 about God always leading us in triumph
Influence through faithfulness: Echoes Matthew 5:14-16 about being light in the world and letting our good works glorify our Father in heaven
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we feel like our lives don't matter much or wonder if anyone notices our efforts to follow God, Jehoshaphat's example reminds us that faithfulness always has impact, even when we can't see it immediately. We can trust that God is using our consistent obedience and dependence on Him to influence others in ways we may never fully know. When we face situations that seem impossible or overwhelming, we can remember Jehoshaphat's choir marching ahead of his army and trust that God still fights battles for those who worship Him and depend on His power rather than their own abilities.
Devotional Thought: The Candle in the Window
In a quiet house on a dark road, a woman placed a candle in her window every night. Not for herself—but for her son, long grown and long gone. She once told a neighbor, “If he ever comes home, I want him to know he’s still loved. That light will guide him.”
Jehoshaphat’s story in 2 Chronicles is a candle-in-the-window kind of life. He didn’t just lead with strength—he led with faith. He sent teachers to spread God’s Word (17:9), and when danger came, he didn’t panic. He prayed. “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You,” he said to God (20:12). Because of his faith, others followed his lead, and the nation was blessed.
Faithfulness like that leaves a mark. It may not always feel big or bold, but it shines. People remember the ones who stayed steady when life got stormy. The ones who pointed others to God with quiet trust and steady love.
D.L. Moody once said, “A small deed done is better than a great deed planned.”
Your prayers, your example, your steady presence—it matters. Whether you’re teaching, encouraging, or just loving well, you’re placing a candle in the window. And someone just might find their way home by its light.
Culture Connection
Our culture often focuses on youth and quick results. Older adults are sometimes overlooked, as if their best days are behind them. But in God’s eyes, a faithful life speaks louder with time. Whether we realize it or not, others—especially younger family members—are watching how we live, how we pray, and how we trust God.
Jehoshaphat’s story shows how one leader, by depending on the Lord and promoting God’s Word, brought peace and strength to an entire nation. His faith wasn’t just personal—it shaped a people. Even when he faced overwhelming trouble, Jehoshaphat led his people to pray first and trust God fully. That kind of influence doesn’t fade with age—it grows deeper with every choice to walk with God.
Even now, in these later years, your life may be someone’s example of what it means to trust in the Lord.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Spiritual Leadership — Pointing others toward God
Description:
Spiritual
leadership isn’t about titles or positions. It’s about the quiet,
steady example of a life that honors God. You don’t have to be loud
to lead. When people see your faith in action, you are leading them.
Reference:
“They
taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the
Lord; they went around to all the towns of Judah and taught the
people.” — 2 Chronicles 17:9
Comment:
Jehoshaphat
made God’s Word a priority. That influence lasted beyond his
lifetime. When we speak about Scripture, share our stories of God’s
faithfulness, or simply live with integrity, we’re planting seeds
that can grow for generations.
Trait 2: Trust in Crisis — Letting prayer guide our response
Description:
When
trouble comes—and it always does—our influence shows most clearly
in how we respond. Trust means choosing prayer before panic, praise
before worry, and patience as we wait on God.
Reference:
“We
do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” — 2
Chronicles 20:12b
Comment:
This
short prayer of Jehoshaphat speaks to all of us. It’s okay not to
have the answers. What matters is where we turn. Others notice when
we lean on God in hard times, and our example can strengthen their
faith too.
Session
7: When Good People Make Bad Choices — 2 Chronicles 21:1-24:27
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: Even faithful people can be led astray by wrong influences
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how Jehoram married into Ahab's wicked family and abandoned his father's godly ways. Watch for young Joash's early faithfulness under the priest Jehoiada's guidance. Pay attention to how quickly Joash turned away from God after his mentor died.
Personal Reflection Questions
Have you ever been disappointed when someone you looked up to made choices that surprised and hurt you?
What influences in your life help keep you on track spiritually, and what influences tend to pull you away from God?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 21:1-24:27
Overview
We live in an age of fallen heroes. Politicians disappoint us with scandals, athletes let us down with poor choices, and even church leaders sometimes make headlines for the wrong reasons. It's especially painful when family members we've prayed for and invested in choose paths that break our hearts. The reigns of Jehoram and Joash show us that even people with godly backgrounds can make devastating choices when they choose wrong influences. These stories don't destroy our hope—they teach us important lessons about human nature and the lifelong need for spiritual accountability.
This May Surprise You
Joash was only seven years old when he became king, and for most of his reign he was faithful to God and did what was right (2 Chronicles 24:2). He even organized a successful project to repair the temple. But after the priest Jehoiada died, Joash listened to different advisors and completely abandoned his faith, even ordering the murder of Jehoiada's son Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:20-22). This dramatic change shows us that spiritual maturity isn't automatic—even people who start well can finish poorly if they stop surrounding themselves with godly influences and accountability.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Jehoram married into the wrong family (2 Chronicles 21:6) Comment: Jehoram's marriage to Ahab's daughter brought evil influences into Judah's royal family. His choice of a life partner led him away from the godly example his father Jehoshaphat had set. The people we choose to be closest to have enormous power to shape our spiritual direction.
Point 2: Bad choices brought consequences to others (2 Chronicles 21:8-10, 16-17) Comment: Jehoram's spiritual failures resulted in military defeats, disease, and suffering for his entire kingdom. Our personal choices, especially when we're in leadership positions, always affect other people. Sin never stays private—it spreads and hurts innocent people.
Point 3: Joash started well under good guidance (2 Chronicles 24:1-3) Comment: As long as the priest Jehoiada was alive to mentor him, King Joash made good decisions and honored God. He repaired the temple and restored proper worship. Good mentors and accountability partners help us stay on track spiritually throughout our lives.
Point 4: Wrong advisors led Joash astray (2 Chronicles 24:17-18) Comment: After Jehoiada died, Joash began listening to officials who led him back into idolatry. The same man who had restored temple worship ended up abandoning God and killing a prophet. Even strong spiritual foundations can crumble without ongoing godly influence and accountability.
Take-Home Thought
The tragic stories of Jehoram and Joash remind us that spiritual growth isn't automatic and good beginnings don't guarantee good endings. Both men had access to godly examples and knew what was right, but they made choices that led them away from God. Their failures don't mean we should lose hope in people, but they do teach us important lessons about the power of influence and the lifelong nature of spiritual battles.
We all need people in our lives who will encourage us toward faithfulness and challenge us when we start drifting. Joash thrived under Jehoiada's mentorship but failed when he lost that accountability. This suggests that spiritual maturity isn't a destination we reach and then coast—it's a daily choice that requires ongoing support from other believers. When we're disappointed by family members, friends, or leaders who make poor choices, we can remember that their failures don't reflect on God's character or the value of faith itself.
At the same time, these stories warn us about our own vulnerability. If kings with godly backgrounds could be led astray, none of us are immune to making poor choices. The influences we allow into our lives—through marriage, friendships, entertainment, and advisors—shape our spiritual direction more than we often realize. We need to be intentional about surrounding ourselves with people who will help us stay faithful to God, especially as we get older and might be tempted to think we don't need accountability anymore.
Quotes
John Bunyan: "One leak will sink a ship, and one sin will destroy a sinner. Jehoram and Joash both started with great advantages, but small compromises led to great disasters. We must guard our hearts against the first steps away from God's path."
A.W. Pink: "The Christian life is not a hundred-yard dash but a marathon that requires endurance to the finish line. Many who start well fall by the wayside not because they lack ability, but because they stop depending on God's strength and godly counsel from others."
Biblical Connections
Wrong marriage influences: Echoes 1 Kings 11:1-4 where Solomon's foreign wives turned his heart away from God in his old age
Consequences affecting others: Connects to Joshua 7:1-26 where Achan's sin brought defeat to the entire nation of Israel
Need for ongoing mentorship: Parallels Proverbs 27:17 about iron sharpening iron and the value of accountability relationships
Finishing well: Reflects Paul's words in 2 Timothy 4:7 about finishing the race and keeping the faith until the end
Influence of advisors: Echoes Proverbs 13:20 that "whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm"
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we're hurt by the poor choices of people we love or respect, these stories remind us that God's faithfulness doesn't depend on human faithfulness. Even when good people make bad choices, God remains good and His promises remain true. We can trust Him to work even through disappointing circumstances and to use our pain to make us more compassionate toward others who are struggling. If we're concerned about our own spiritual future, we can take comfort in knowing that God provides the influences and accountability we need to stay faithful—we just need to be humble enough to seek them out and wise enough to listen when they speak truth into our lives.
Devotional Thought: The Bent Fence Post
There’s an old wooden fence along a country road that leans just slightly, right in the middle. If you weren’t looking closely, you might not notice. But if you follow that line far enough, you’ll see it drifts off course. Not because of one big break—but because a single post shifted long ago.
In 2 Chronicles 21–24, we see the sad pattern of good people drifting. Jehoshaphat was faithful, but his son Jehoram married poorly and turned to wickedness. Joash started well, even repaired the temple, but later abandoned God when his mentor died. One poor influence. One shift in direction. And everything began to lean.
It’s heartbreaking—especially for those of us who’ve seen friends, pastors, or even family members lose their way. We wonder, “How could someone who once loved God make such a choice?”
But Scripture shows us that even kings, even the faithful, can fall when their hearts stop listening. “After the death of Jehoiada, Joash listened to the officials” (2 Chronicles 24:17). Not to God—just to voices that sounded easier.
Matthew Henry wrote, “Those who forsake the guidance of faithful friends often fall into the snares of flatterers.”
So what do we do? We keep leaning into God’s Word. We pray for the wanderers. And we guard our hearts—no matter how many years we’ve walked with Him.
Because it’s never too late to lean back toward the truth.
Culture Connection
Many of us have felt the sorrow of watching someone we love—a child, grandchild, pastor, or friend—make choices that go against what they once believed. It’s hard to watch people who once followed God drift away, especially when we poured love, prayer, and guidance into their lives.
This part of 2 Chronicles gives us a sobering look at how quickly things can turn when leaders and loved ones stop seeking God. Jehoram, Ahaziah, and even Joash started with advantages: godly families, spiritual guidance, and strong beginnings. But one by one, they gave in to pressure, pride, or poor influences. Their downfall reminds us that no one is above temptation—and that finishing well is just as important as starting strong.
This passage also reminds us of something else: our hope is not in people, but in God. People may fail, but God remains faithful.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Discernment — Choosing our influences carefully
Description:
Discernment
is the ability to see what’s true and what isn’t—to recognize
whether someone is drawing us closer to God or pulling us away. It
helps us remain steady when others stray.
Reference:
“He
followed the ways of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had
done, for he married a daughter of Ahab.” — 2 Chronicles
21:6
Comment:
Jehoram’s
downfall began with a marriage that brought ungodly influence into
his life. Discernment matters, especially as we guide family and
younger believers. When we surround ourselves with godly voices, we
are better able to stay on course—and help others do the same.
Trait 2: Perseverance in Faith — Staying faithful all the way to the end
Description:
It’s
not enough to begin well—we must finish well, too. Perseverance
means holding on to God, even when others fall away, and refusing to
let disappointment or bitterness turn our hearts cold.
Reference:
“Joash
did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the years of Jehoiada
the priest.” — 2 Chronicles 24:2
(Later, after
Jehoiada died, Joash turned from the Lord.)
Comment:
Joash
was faithful—until his spiritual mentor died. Then his loyalty
faded. This reminds us that our faith must be rooted in God alone,
not in people, no matter how good they are. If we keep our eyes on
the Lord, we can stay strong to the very end.
Session
8: Pride Goes Before a Fall — 2 Chronicles 25:1-26:23
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: Success can make us forget our need for God's guidance
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how both Amaziah and Uzziah started their reigns by seeking God and following His ways. Watch for the moment when each king began trusting in his own strength rather than God's power. Pay attention to the tragic consequences that came when they let success make them proud and self-reliant.
Personal Reflection Questions
Think of an area of your life where you've become very skilled or experienced. Do you still ask for help in that area, or do you mostly rely on your own knowledge?
Can you remember a time when success or recognition in some area made you feel like you didn't need advice from others?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 25:1-26:23
Overview
We live in a culture that celebrates self-made success and personal achievement. Social media encourages us to showcase our accomplishments and build our personal brand. As we get older and gain more life experience, it's natural to feel confident about our abilities and judgment. The stories of Amaziah and Uzziah show us the danger that lurks in success—the temptation to forget that everything we have comes from God and that we still need His guidance no matter how skilled or experienced we become. Their tragic falls remind us that pride really does go before destruction, and that our greatest strength can become our greatest weakness when we stop depending on God.
This May Surprise You
King Uzziah was one of the most successful rulers in Judah's history—he built a powerful army, developed new military technology, expanded the kingdom's territory, and brought great prosperity to his people (2 Chronicles 26:6-15). His success lasted for decades, and he became famous in surrounding nations. But his downfall came not from military defeat or economic collapse, but from a single act of pride when he tried to burn incense in the temple, a duty reserved only for priests (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). Sometimes our greatest successes can lead to our most devastating failures when they make us think we're above God's rules and boundaries.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Both kings started by seeking God (2 Chronicles 25:2, 26:4-5) Comment: Amaziah and Uzziah both began their reigns with hearts turned toward God. They followed His commands and sought His guidance in their early years. Success in the Christian life often begins with humble dependence on God, but that same success can later tempt us toward pride.
Point 2: God blessed their obedience with victory (2 Chronicles 25:5-12, 26:6-8) Comment: When they trusted God and followed His ways, both kings experienced remarkable success. God gave them military victories, economic prosperity, and international respect. God loves to bless His people when they walk in humility and obedience.
Point 3: Success made them self-confident (2 Chronicles 25:14-16, 26:16) Comment: After their victories, both kings began making decisions without seeking God's guidance. Amaziah worshipped the gods of his defeated enemies, and Uzziah tried to perform priestly duties. Success had convinced them they could handle things on their own.
Point 4: Pride brought swift judgment (2 Chronicles 25:20-24, 26:19-21) Comment: God's discipline came quickly once pride took root. Amaziah suffered military defeat and was eventually assassinated. Uzziah was struck with leprosy and spent his final years isolated from people and excluded from the temple. The higher they had risen, the harder they fell.
Take-Home Thought
The tragic stories of Amaziah and Uzziah teach us that success is one of the most dangerous tests we can face. Failure often drives us to God in desperation, but success can quietly lead us away from Him through pride and self-reliance. These kings didn't fall because they lacked ability or experience—they fell because their abilities and experience made them forget their need for God's continued guidance.
This pattern repeats itself in every generation. Business leaders who built companies through prayer and integrity begin cutting ethical corners when success makes them feel invincible. Parents who raised their first children with careful dependence on God become overconfident with later children and stop seeking His wisdom. Church members who once sought counsel from mature believers begin trusting only their own judgment when they gain experience and recognition.
The antidote to pride isn't avoiding success, but maintaining the same humble dependence on God that brought success in the first place. Uzziah's leprosy serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how much we achieve or how experienced we become, we're still completely dependent on God's mercy and grace. The moment we think we've outgrown our need for His guidance and boundaries is the moment we begin walking toward a fall. True wisdom recognizes that every good thing we have comes from God's hand, and that our greatest successes should make us more grateful and humble, not more proud and self-reliant.
Quotes
Matthew Henry: "Pride is a sin that grows upon our good qualities and virtues, not our vices. Uzziah's downfall came not when he was weak, but when he was strong. Success is often more dangerous to the soul than failure, because it whispers lies about our own importance and sufficiency."
Charles Spurgeon: "It is a very remarkable thing that some of the worst falls that we read of in Scripture are the falls of those who had previously walked with God. Uzziah's strength became his weakness because it made him forget the source of his power."
Biblical Connections
Pride before destruction: Directly reflects Proverbs 16:18 that "pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall"
Forgetting God in prosperity: Echoes Deuteronomy 8:11-14 warning about forgetting God when blessed with abundance and success
Overstepping boundaries: Connects to Numbers 16:1-35 where Korah and others were judged for trying to take on priestly duties not assigned to them
Success leading to spiritual danger: Parallels 1 Corinthians 10:12 warning that those who think they stand should be careful not to fall
God's discipline of His children: Reflects Hebrews 12:5-11 about God's loving correction when His people go astray
Need for continued dependence: Echoes John 15:5 where Jesus says "apart from me you can do nothing"
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we're enjoying success or recognition in any area of life, these stories remind us to stay humble and keep seeking God's guidance. We can trust that He wants to continue blessing us, but we need to remember that every good gift comes from Him. When we face setbacks or corrections after periods of success, we can trust that God's discipline comes from love, not anger. Like a loving parent who corrects a child who's becoming too proud or careless, God sometimes allows difficulties to keep us close to Him and protect us from greater falls. We can be grateful for both His blessings and His boundaries, knowing that both are expressions of His love for us.
Devotional Thought: The Ladder with No Rungs
A man once leaned a tall ladder against a tree and began to climb. He’d only gone a few feet when someone called out, “Aren’t you forgetting something?” He looked down—there were no rungs. Just the side rails. He’d gotten so focused on the top, he forgot what was holding him up.
King Uzziah’s story feels like that. He started strong—“as long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success” (2 Chronicles 26:5). He led with wisdom, built defenses, trained his army, even invented tools. But when success came, pride crept in. Uzziah entered the temple, doing what only priests were allowed to do, and he was struck with leprosy.
It wasn’t ability that brought him down—it was arrogance.
The more God blesses us—whether with wisdom, age, or respect—the more tempted we are to think we’ve earned it ourselves. But like the ladder, all our progress is held up by rungs God has placed: grace, mercy, and daily dependence on Him.
C.S. Lewis wisely wrote, “Pride leads to every other vice: it is the complete anti-God state of mind.”
There’s nothing wrong with looking back and seeing how far we’ve come. But let’s never forget who brought us here. Climb with humility. Step by step, rung by rung, hand in hand with God.
Culture Connection
In our world, people often measure success by achievements, status, or wealth. And sometimes—even in the church—we look up to those who’ve done well in life as if they’re above the struggles the rest of us face. But the Bible tells a different story.
King Uzziah began with humility, seeking God and finding success as a result. But over time, his strength became his weakness. He began to think the blessings were about him, not God. Pride crept in. And when he overstepped his role and ignored correction, the fall was hard—and final.
This story is a warning, but also a mirror. Even as faithful Christians with years of experience behind us, we’re not immune to pride. Sometimes it sneaks in when we think, “I’ve been doing this a long time,” or “I know what I’m doing.” But true spiritual maturity keeps pointing everything back to God. The closer we walk with Him, the more we remember who deserves the credit.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Humility — Giving God the credit, not ourselves
Description:
Humility
helps us remember that every good thing—whether it’s wisdom,
health, or reputation—comes from God. It keeps us from thinking
we’ve arrived or that we’ve earned our blessings on our own.
Reference:
“As
long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success.” — 2
Chronicles 26:5b
Comment:
Uzziah’s
success began with seeking the Lord. But when he stopped depending on
God, things began to unravel. Humility keeps us grounded. It reminds
us to keep praying, keep listening, and keep pointing others to the
One who truly deserves the praise.
Trait 2: Teachability — Remaining open to correction, no matter our age
Description:
Teachability
means we’re still willing to learn, even in later life. It’s a
mindset that says, “God can still grow me,” and “I’m not too
old to be corrected if I stray.” Pride resists correction.
Teachability welcomes it.
Reference:
“But
after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was
unfaithful to the Lord his God.” — 2 Chronicles 26:16a
Comment:
Uzziah’s
downfall wasn’t just about power—it was about being unteachable.
He thought he could do no wrong. But we all need people who can speak
truth to us, and we all need to stay open to God’s gentle
correction. A teachable spirit keeps us on the right path.
Session
9: It's Never Too Late for Revival — 2 Chronicles 29:1-32:33
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: God honors genuine repentance and spiritual renewal at any age
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how quickly Hezekiah began cleaning out the temple after his father's wicked reign. Watch for the joy that filled Jerusalem when proper worship was restored. Pay attention to how God protected Hezekiah from the mighty Assyrian army when he trusted completely in God's power.
Personal Reflection Questions
If you could "clean house" spiritually and get rid of things that have been hindering your relationship with God, what would you throw out first?
What's the most joyful worship experience you can remember, and what made it so meaningful?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 29:1-32:33
Overview
Many people think spiritual renewal is mainly for young people—that by the time we reach our senior years, our patterns are set and real change is unlikely. Our culture often views older adults as stuck in their ways, resistant to change, and past their prime for making significant life improvements. King Hezekiah's story destroys these assumptions. After inheriting a kingdom ruined by his father's wickedness, Hezekiah led one of the most dramatic spiritual renewals in Israel's history. His example shows us that it's never too late to start fresh with God, clean out spiritual clutter, and experience the joy of renewed worship and trust.
This May Surprise You
Hezekiah began his spiritual reforms immediately—in the first month of his reign, he reopened the temple doors and called the priests together (2 Chronicles 29:3). He didn't wait to get settled in his role or gradually implement changes over time. His urgency came from understanding that every day of spiritual neglect was a day of missed blessing. Many Christians assume they need to take spiritual renewal slowly, making small changes over months or years. But Hezekiah's example suggests that sometimes the best approach is decisive action that demonstrates we're serious about putting God first in our lives.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Hezekiah cleaned out the temple thoroughly (2 Chronicles 29:3-11, 15-16) Comment: The priests removed all the items used for idol worship and carried out everything that defiled God's house. Spiritual renewal often requires getting rid of things that compete with God for our attention and devotion. We can't add new spiritual habits without removing old spiritual hindrances.
Point 2: Proper worship brought tremendous joy (2 Chronicles 29:30, 30:21-26) Comment: When worship was restored according to God's design, the people experienced joy unlike anything they had known in years. There's something about genuine, heartfelt worship that satisfies the human heart in ways nothing else can. Many people have forgotten what it feels like to truly celebrate God's goodness.
Point 3: Revival spread beyond Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 30:1-12) Comment: Hezekiah invited people from the northern kingdom to join the Passover celebration, and many responded despite years of spiritual neglect. Personal revival often becomes contagious, inspiring others to seek God in fresh ways. One person's spiritual renewal can spark renewal in their entire family or church.
Point 4: God defended those who trusted Him (2 Chronicles 32:7-8, 20-22) Comment: When the mighty Assyrian army threatened Jerusalem, Hezekiah and Isaiah prayed together, and God destroyed the enemy without human help. Spiritual renewal brings us back into the place where we can experience God's supernatural protection and provision.
Take-Home Thought
Hezekiah's revival teaches us that spiritual renewal is always possible, regardless of our age, background, or how long we've been spiritually stagnant. His father Ahaz had filled the temple with idols and led the nation into spiritual darkness, but Hezekiah refused to accept that this was just "how things are now." He believed God could bring fresh life to dead situations and joy to people who had forgotten how to truly worship.
The key to Hezekiah's success was his willingness to clean house completely before trying to build something new. He didn't just add some religious activities to the existing mess—he cleared out everything that didn't belong and started fresh. This suggests that personal revival might require us to honestly examine our lives and remove things that have been hindering our relationship with God. Maybe it's entertainment choices that feed our minds with ungodly values, relationships that pull us away from spiritual priorities, or habits that leave no time for prayer and Bible study.
But Hezekiah's story isn't just about what he removed—it's about what he restored. The joy that filled Jerusalem when proper worship resumed reminds us that God designed us for celebration, praise, and genuine delight in His presence. Many Christians have become so focused on avoiding sin that they've forgotten the positive joy of knowing God intimately. Revival isn't just about cleaning up our act—it's about rediscovering the satisfaction and peace that come from putting God at the center of our lives.
Quotes
Leonard Ravenhill: "Revival is when God gets so sick and tired of being misrepresented that He shows Himself. Hezekiah's reforms created space for God to demonstrate His power and goodness in ways that had been impossible during years of spiritual compromise."
Duncan Campbell: "Revival is not some emotion or worked-up excitement; it is rather an invasion from heaven which brings a conscious awareness of God. Hezekiah experienced this when he cleaned out the temple and restored proper worship—suddenly God's presence became real and powerful again."
Biblical Connections
Immediate obedience: Echoes Psalm 119:60 about not delaying to keep God's commandments and the urgency of spiritual response
Cleansing God's house: Connects to Jesus cleansing the temple in Matthew 21:12-13 and the principle that God's house should be holy
Revival spreading: Parallels Acts 8:4-8 where persecution scattered believers but revival followed them to new places
Joy in worship: Reflects Psalm 100:1-2 about serving the Lord with gladness and coming before Him with joyful songs
God fighting for His people: Echoes 2 Chronicles 20:17 and Isaiah 37:36 showing God's supernatural protection of those who trust Him
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we feel spiritually dry or stuck in old patterns that aren't helping us grow, Hezekiah's example reminds us that God is always ready for a fresh start with us. We don't have to stay where we are spiritually—we can clean house, restore proper priorities, and experience renewed joy in our relationship with God. If we're facing overwhelming challenges or opposition, we can trust that the same God who destroyed the Assyrian army still fights for those who put their complete trust in Him. Revival isn't just a historical event—it's a present possibility for anyone willing to seek God with their whole heart and make room for Him to work in fresh ways.
Devotional Thought: The Cleared Garden Path
An older man once decided to tend the garden he’d long neglected. The weeds were thick, the path buried. But each day, he pulled a little, swept a little, and before long, the stone walkway reappeared—beautiful, firm, and familiar. “I thought it was too late,” he said. “But the path was still there, just waiting to be cleared.”
That’s what revival looks like.
King Hezekiah came to power after years of spiritual neglect in Judah. The temple was closed, worship forgotten. But he didn’t waste time. “In the first month of the first year of his reign, he opened the doors of the temple of the Lord and repaired them” (2 Chronicles 29:3).
He led the people in cleaning out the filth, restoring worship, and turning hearts back to God. And God responded—not with scolding, but with renewal. Worship came alive again. Protection followed. Joy returned.
Revival isn’t about age or starting over perfectly. It’s about taking the next faithful step—today.
A.W. Tozer once said, “God never refuses the heart that is wholly His.”
You’re never too old to grow again. Whether it’s prayer, worship, or simply saying, “Lord, I’m still Yours,” revival begins in the heart. The path is still there. You may just need to clear a little space—and walk it once more.
Culture Connection
Today’s world moves quickly and often leaves the older generation feeling overlooked or left behind. Even in churches, people may think revival is only for the young—or for someone else. But Scripture shows that no matter our age or stage in life, God is always ready to bring spiritual renewal to those who seek Him with sincerity.
King Hezekiah didn’t wait for the perfect moment. He began restoring worship as soon as he became king, even though the nation was in spiritual ruin. He gathered the people, cleaned out the temple, and brought back true worship of God. The result? Revival broke out, and God’s presence and protection returned.
This story reminds us that it’s never too late to begin again with God. Whether we’re leading a church, encouraging a neighbor, or praying from a quiet home, we can still be part of God’s renewing work—right now.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Renewal — Believing God still wants to work in us and through us
Description:
Renewal
begins when we believe God isn’t finished with us. It shifts our
mindset from “I’m too old for that” to “God can still use
me.” It’s a fresh openness to His Spirit and a willingness to
respond.
Reference:
“In
the first month of the first year of his reign, he opened the doors
of the temple of the Lord and repaired them.” — 2 Chronicles
29:3
Comment:
Hezekiah
didn’t wait. He acted right away. Renewal starts with a decision.
Maybe for us, that means returning to prayer, reaching out to
someone, or simply asking God to stir our hearts again. It’s never
too late to say, “Lord, begin with me.”
Trait 2: Obedient Faith — Taking steps of faith, even when it’s hard
Description:
Obedient
faith means following God’s leading even when it requires effort,
change, or courage. It believes that revival isn’t just
emotional—it’s built on real decisions and actions.
Reference:
“Hezekiah
and all the people rejoiced at what God had brought about for his
people, because it was done so quickly.” — 2 Chronicles
29:36
Comment:
When
we obey, God moves. Hezekiah led the people back to worship, and God
responded quickly. Our obedience might look quieter now—like
praying faithfully, encouraging someone, or humbling ourselves before
God—but those small steps still make room for Him to work.
Session
10: Learning from Others' Mistakes — 2 Chronicles 33:1-25
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: We can choose a different path than those who went before us
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how Manasseh committed even worse sins than his godly father Hezekiah had removed from the land. Watch for the dramatic change that came when Manasseh was taken captive and humbled himself before God. Pay attention to how his son Amon chose to follow his father's early bad example rather than his later repentance.
Personal Reflection Questions
What's one negative pattern or habit you've seen in your family that you've tried hard not to repeat in your own life?
Have you ever watched someone learn an important lesson the hard way and thought, "I don't want to go through that myself"?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 33:1-25
Overview
Every family has patterns that get passed down through generations—some good, some harmful. We see relatives struggle with the same issues over and over: anger problems, financial troubles, broken relationships, or unhealthy habits. Today's culture often excuses bad behavior by saying "that's just how I was raised" or "it runs in the family." King Manasseh's story shows us a different perspective. Despite having one of the most godly fathers in history, he chose to rebel against everything Hezekiah had taught him. But later, after experiencing the consequences of his choices, he genuinely repented and changed his ways. His son Amon faced the same choice but decided to follow his father's early bad example rather than his later transformation.
This May Surprise You
Manasseh is often remembered as one of Judah's most wicked kings, but the Bible also records one of the most dramatic repentance stories in the Old Testament (2 Chronicles 33:12-13). After being taken captive and humbled, Manasseh genuinely sought God, and God not only forgave him but restored him to his throne. His transformation was so complete that he spent his remaining years removing the idols he had previously installed and trying to undo the damage he had caused. This shows us that no one is beyond the reach of God's forgiveness, and it's never too late to choose a different path, even after years of bad decisions.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Manasseh rejected his father's godly example (2 Chronicles 33:2-3) Comment: Despite growing up in Hezekiah's household and seeing God's protection and blessing firsthand, Manasseh chose to rebuild the idols his father had destroyed. Having good examples doesn't automatically make us good—we still have to choose our own path. Sometimes people rebel against godly influences specifically because they've been exposed to them.
Point 2: Bad choices brought severe consequences (2 Chronicles 33:9-11) Comment: Manasseh's sins led not only to his own captivity but also corrupted an entire generation of God's people. Our choices don't just affect us—they impact our families, communities, and everyone who looks to us for leadership. The consequences of sin often extend far beyond what we initially imagine.
Point 3: Humbling led to genuine repentance (2 Chronicles 33:12-13) Comment: When Manasseh was chained and taken to Babylon, he finally recognized his need for God. Sometimes it takes serious consequences to break through our pride and self-deception. God was ready to forgive and restore as soon as Manasseh genuinely sought Him with a humble heart.
Point 4: Amon chose the wrong example to follow (2 Chronicles 33:22-23) Comment: Amon had two examples from his father's life—the early years of rebellion and the later years of repentance. Tragically, he chose to imitate his father's sins rather than his father's transformation. We all have the power to choose which examples to follow from those who went before us.
Take-Home Thought
Manasseh and Amon's contrasting choices teach us important lessons about breaking negative family patterns and learning from others' experiences. Manasseh shows us that no matter how badly we've messed up or how long we've been making poor choices, it's never too late to genuinely repent and start fresh with God. His dramatic transformation proves that God's grace is bigger than our worst failures and that authentic change is possible at any stage of life.
But Amon's story carries an equally important message. He had the unique opportunity to learn from both his father's mistakes and his father's repentance. He could have avoided years of suffering by choosing to follow the good example rather than the bad one. Instead, he repeated his father's early sins and paid the same price his father had paid. This reminds us that we don't have to learn everything through personal experience—we can gain wisdom by carefully observing the consequences of others' choices.
Every family and community provides us with both positive and negative examples. We see people who've struggled with addiction, broken relationships through their anger, or damaged their health through poor choices. We also see people who've overcome these same challenges, found healing in their relationships, and built lives that honor God. The question isn't whether we'll be influenced by those around us—the question is which influences we'll choose to follow.
This doesn't mean we should judge or write off people who are still struggling with destructive patterns. Manasseh's story reminds us that transformation is always possible, and we should pray for and encourage those who are ready to make positive changes. But we also don't have to repeat their mistakes while we're waiting for them to change.
Quotes
Billy Graham: "The greatest legacy we can leave our children is not money or possessions, but a clear example of what it means to walk with God. Manasseh learned this lesson late in life, but he learned it. His son Amon had the advantage of seeing both the consequences of rebellion and the blessings of repentance."
Elisabeth Elliot: "We are not bound by the failures of previous generations, but we can certainly benefit from their hard-won wisdom. The key is choosing to learn from their experiences rather than insisting on making all the same mistakes ourselves."
Biblical Connections
Breaking generational patterns: Echoes Ezekiel 18:20 that children don't have to bear the guilt of their parents' sins—each person is responsible for their own choices
God's readiness to forgive: Connects to Joel 2:12-13 about returning to God with genuine repentance and finding Him gracious and merciful
Learning from others: Parallels 1 Corinthians 10:6-11 where Paul says the Old Testament examples were written for our instruction and warning
Choosing good examples: Reflects Philippians 3:17 about following the pattern of those who live as examples of Christ
Humbling leading to blessing: Echoes James 4:10 that God lifts up those who humble themselves before Him
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we're discouraged by negative patterns in our family or community, Manasseh's transformation reminds us that God's power to change lives is greater than any generational curse or destructive habit. We can trust that it's never too late for genuine repentance and fresh starts, whether in our own lives or in the lives of people we love. When we're trying to make better choices than those around us, we can trust that God will give us the strength and wisdom to break negative patterns and establish positive ones. We don't have to be victims of our circumstances or family history—we can be pioneers of godly change that blesses future generations.
Devotional Thought: The Two Roads Through the Orchard
There’s an orchard just outside of town with two paths running through it. One is well-worn, rutted, and tangled with roots. The other is narrow and clear, freshly marked. A sign sits between them that reads, “You don’t have to walk where others have fallen.”
In 2 Chronicles 33, we meet two kings—father and son. Manasseh started terribly. He filled Jerusalem with idols, ignored God's ways, and led the people into deep sin. But late in life, humbled by suffering, he repented. Scripture says, “Then he prayed… and the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea” (33:13). He turned around.
But his son Amon? He saw everything—his father's sin and his repentance. Still, he chose the broken path. He kept rebelling and never turned back. His story ended quickly and tragically.
These kings remind us that heritage doesn’t equal destiny. We can honor those who came before us without copying their mistakes.
Billy Graham once said, “Each generation must find God for itself. But we can leave behind enough light to help them see.”
Whether you were raised by saints or strugglers, you can choose obedience today. And if you’ve made missteps in the past? You can still take the clearer path now. Just like Manasseh. It’s never too late to walk a different road.
Culture Connection
We all grow up under someone’s influence—parents, pastors, teachers, or even cultural values. Sometimes we’re handed a legacy of faith. Other times, we inherit patterns of sin, neglect, or brokenness. But Scripture makes something clear: we are not bound to repeat the past.
Manasseh started terribly. He rejected the Lord, led Judah astray, and filled the land with idolatry. But in his final years, after being humbled by suffering, he turned back to God in true repentance. Sadly, his son Amon chose not to learn from that change. Instead of turning to God, he doubled down on rebellion—and it cost him his life.
This story speaks to all of us. Whether we had godly parents or difficult ones, whether our past includes faith or failure, we can choose differently. God welcomes humble hearts, no matter what came before. We can learn from both the good and the bad examples, and with His help, we can leave a godly legacy for those who come after us.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Teachability — Learning from the past instead of repeating it
Description:
Teachability
means having a heart willing to reflect, receive correction, and make
better choices. It means we don’t excuse sin just because “that’s
how it’s always been.”
Reference:
“In
his distress he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled
himself greatly before the God of his ancestors.” — 2
Chronicles 33:12
Comment:
Manasseh’s
repentance didn’t erase his past, but it changed his future. His
heart turned when he finally listened. If we remain teachable—even
late in life—God can still grow us. And we can pass on wisdom that
helps others avoid the same mistakes.
Trait 2: Responsibility — Taking ownership for our own walk with God
Description:
Responsibility
means we don’t blame others for our spiritual condition. We honor
the good we’ve received and learn from the bad, but we know that
our response to God is our own.
Reference:
“But
Amon did not humble himself before the Lord as his father Manasseh
had done; Amon increased his guilt.” — 2 Chronicles 33:23
Comment:
Amon
had every chance to turn toward God. He saw his father repent, but he
chose rebellion. His life reminds us that even with a poor example—or
a changed one—we are still responsible for our own choices. God
gives each of us a path to follow Him.
Session
11: Finishing the Race Strong — 2 Chronicles 34:1-36:23
Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay
Focus: Our final years can be our most faithful years if we stay committed to God's word
What to Look For
As you read this passage, notice how young King Josiah began seeking God at age sixteen and launched major reforms by age twenty. Watch for the dramatic moment when the lost Book of the Law was discovered and how it changed everything. Pay attention to the contrast between Josiah's wholehearted faithfulness and the spiritual decline of the final kings who followed him.
Personal Reflection Questions
If someone wrote the story of your spiritual life, what would you want the final chapters to say about your faithfulness to God?
What's one way you could still grow spiritually or serve God more fully, regardless of your current age or circumstances?
Scripture — 2 Chronicles 34:1-36:23
Overview
Our culture often portrays aging as a process of gradual decline—losing abilities, reducing activities, and slowly withdrawing from meaningful involvement in life. Many people assume their most productive and faithful years are behind them once they reach retirement age. King Josiah's story challenges these assumptions completely. He began his reign as a child but showed us that spiritual maturity isn't about age—it's about wholehearted commitment to God's word. Even more importantly, the tragic decline of Judah's final kings reminds us that how we finish our spiritual race matters more than how we start it.
This May Surprise You
When the Book of the Law was discovered in the temple during Josiah's reforms, it had apparently been lost for so long that even the priests didn't know what it contained (2 Chronicles 34:14-15). An entire generation had grown up without hearing God's word read or taught properly. When Josiah heard the Law read aloud, he was so convicted that he tore his clothes and immediately called for national repentance (2 Chronicles 34:19-21). This shows us that God's word still has power to transform lives and nations, even after long periods of neglect. It's never too late to rediscover the power of Scripture in our personal lives or churches.
Seeds for Thought
Point 1: Josiah started seeking God as a teenager (2 Chronicles 34:3) Comment: Even though Josiah became king at age eight, he began personally seeking God when he was sixteen and started major reforms by age twenty. His example shows that spiritual maturity can begin early and that young people can accomplish great things for God when they're wholehearted in their commitment.
Point 2: Rediscovering God's word changed everything (2 Chronicles 34:14-21) Comment: The lost Book of the Law became the foundation for Josiah's most important reforms. When people had forgotten what God actually said, they invented their own religious practices. Getting back to Scripture brought clarity, conviction, and genuine spiritual renewal that affected the entire nation.
Point 3: Josiah served with complete devotion (2 Chronicles 34:31, 35:3-6) Comment: The Bible says Josiah followed God "with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength." His commitment wasn't partial or halfhearted—he gave everything he had to serving God faithfully. This kind of complete devotion is possible at any age and in any circumstances.
Point 4: The final kings forgot God's faithfulness (2 Chronicles 36:11-16) Comment: Despite seeing God's protection and blessing throughout their history, Judah's last kings ignored His warnings and rebelled against His commands. They had multiple opportunities to repent but chose pride and self-reliance instead. Their tragic end reminds us that how we finish our spiritual journey is crucial.
Take-Home Thought
Josiah's reign teaches us that our most faithful and productive years don't have to be behind us. His wholehearted devotion to God and His word resulted in the most thorough spiritual reforms in Judah's history. He didn't let his youth excuse him from taking spiritual leadership seriously, and he didn't assume that previous generations had done everything that needed to be done. Instead, he took personal responsibility for seeking God and leading others toward faithfulness.
The tragic decline that followed Josiah's death serves as a sobering reminder that each generation must choose its own level of commitment to God. The final kings of Judah had access to the same Scriptures, the same history of God's faithfulness, and the same opportunities for repentance that Josiah had enjoyed. But they chose compromise over commitment, and their nation paid the ultimate price through exile and captivity.
This pattern teaches us that finishing well requires intentional effort right up to the end. It's not enough to have been faithful in the past or to assume that our previous spiritual experiences will carry us through our final years. Like runners in a marathon, we need to stay focused on the finish line and maintain our pace even when we're tired. The most dangerous time in any spiritual race is near the end, when we might be tempted to coast or assume we've done enough.
But Josiah's example also fills us with hope. If a young man could lead such dramatic spiritual renewal in a nation that had largely forgotten God's word, imagine what could happen if those of us with years of spiritual experience committed ourselves to wholehearted devotion in our remaining years. Our faithfulness in the final chapters of our lives could inspire and influence people for generations to come.
Quotes
Charles Spurgeon: "It is not the length of life that matters, but the depth of life. Josiah's brief reign accomplished more for God's kingdom than the long reigns of many other kings because he served with complete devotion rather than partial commitment."
D.L. Moody: "Some people think they are too old to be of much use to God, but I have found that the most effective servants are often those who have learned through experience to depend completely on His strength rather than their own abilities."
Biblical Connections
Seeking God wholeheartedly: Echoes Jeremiah 29:13 about finding God when we search for Him with all our heart
Power of God's word: Connects to Isaiah 55:11 that God's word never returns empty but accomplishes His purposes
Finishing the race: Parallels Paul's words in 2 Timothy 4:7 about finishing the race and keeping the faith
Learning from Scripture: Reflects Romans 15:4 that everything written in the past was written to teach us
Wholehearted devotion: Echoes the greatest commandment in Matthew 22:37 to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind
How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?
When we feel like our best years of service are behind us or when we're discouraged by spiritual decline around us, Josiah's example reminds us that God can still use wholehearted devotion to accomplish great things. We can trust that it's never too late to seek God more fully, study His word more carefully, or serve Him more faithfully. Even if others around us are becoming less committed as they age, we can choose to become more devoted and passionate about our relationship with God. Our faithfulness in these final years could be the legacy that inspires the next generation to seek God wholeheartedly and finish their own races strong.
Devotional Thought: In Snail Steeps
Imagine a small snail inching its way up a steep, shaded hill. Every step is slow, and sometimes it slips back. Yet the snail never quits. It keeps moving until it reaches the top and finds the ark. As Charles H. Spurgeon once said, “By perseverance the snail reached the ark.” This simple image reminds us that steady faith, even in our later years, carries us forward no matter how small our steps.
King Josiah came to the throne at eight years old and, years later, rediscovered his nation’s copy of God’s Book. He tore his robes, called a fast, and led his people back to God (2 Chronicles 34:19–21 NIV). Though Josiah was young when he started, his greatest faithfulness came after he really learned God’s ways. Contrast this with the kings who followed—those who ignored God’s Word and led Judah into darkness.
We have read these pages many times, yet each day offers a new chance to lean on Scripture. Our final years can be our most faithful years as we commit to God’s Word, prayer, and service. Let’s keep taking small steps in His light. No matter our pace, God honors our perseverance and finishes the work He began in us.
Culture Connection
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel like our best days are behind us. We might think that younger people have more energy or better chances to serve. But the Bible shows us something different: it’s never too late—or too early—to follow God wholeheartedly.
Josiah became king at just eight years old, yet his faithfulness renewed a whole nation. He led people back to God with passion and courage. He found God’s Word, obeyed it, and made God the center of his life. Contrast that with the last kings of Judah, who forgot God and allowed their people to drift away. Their story is a warning—and Josiah’s, a promise.
No matter our age, our “final years” can be the best years spiritually. When we stay rooted in God’s Word and live with purpose, we can make a difference right where we are. Our faithfulness can inspire family, friends, and even our church community.
Traits from the Scripture That Improve Our Thinking
Trait 1: Wholehearted Devotion — Putting God first, no matter what
Description:
Wholehearted
devotion means loving and serving God with everything we have, not
holding back. It’s a daily choice to obey God’s Word, even when
it’s hard or inconvenient.
Reference:
“Josiah
did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and walked in the ways of
his father David; he did not turn aside to the right or to the left.”
— 2 Chronicles 34:2
Comment:
Josiah’s
devotion shaped his entire kingdom. When we commit ourselves fully to
God, even small actions can lead to great change. Our faithfulness
can encourage those around us, no matter how young or old they are.
Trait 2: Faithful Perseverance — Staying committed through challenges
Description:
Faithful
perseverance means continuing to trust and serve God, even when
circumstances are difficult or when we don’t see immediate results.
It’s keeping our eyes on God through life’s ups and downs.
Reference:
“And
because our ancestors did not listen or pay attention, God brought
all this calamity on us.” — 2 Chronicles 36:16
(A
reminder of the cost of forgetting God.)
Comment:
The
last kings forgot God and suffered for it. But we can choose
differently. When we persevere in faith, we become a strong witness.
Our example can help others avoid the same mistakes and keep walking
with the Lord.
End of this series
Beginning of series, looking at 2 Chronicles from a different angle
In 2 Chronicles, the story of Israel’s kings unfolds, highlighting their faithfulness and failures in seeking God's guidance. "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray... then I will heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14)
Session
1:
Crown
the King: Solomon’s Rise to Leadership (2 Chronicles 1–2)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The beginning of Solomon's reign, focusing on his wisdom, humility,
and desire to honor God.
Purpose:
To explore Solomon's journey to leadership and his initial actions
that set the stage for the prosperity of Israel, demonstrating how
God honors those who seek His guidance.
Read: 2 Chronicles 1–2
Lead-in Question: How did Solomon's early decisions as king shape his leadership and relationship with God?
Overview:
Solomon, the Wise King
The story of Solomon in 2 Chronicles 1-2 tells us about a remarkable young king who inherited a powerful kingdom from his father, David. Solomon wasn't just any king; he was chosen by God to lead Israel. The Bible says, "And Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord as king instead of David his father, and prospered exceedingly" (1 Chronicles 29:23). This wasn't just luck; Solomon understood the importance of seeking God's wisdom.
A Wise Request
When Solomon became king, he faced a huge responsibility. He knew he needed God's guidance to rule wisely. Instead of asking for wealth or power, Solomon asked for something even more valuable: "Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?" (1 Chronicles 1:10). This humble request pleased God deeply.
God's Generous Gift
God was so impressed by Solomon's request that He granted him not only wisdom but also incredible wealth and honor. The Bible states, "God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore" (1 Kings 4:29). This wisdom made Solomon famous throughout the ancient world. People from faraway lands came to hear his wise judgments.
Building for God
With God's blessing, Solomon embarked on a grand project: building a magnificent temple for the Lord in Jerusalem. This temple would be a place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people. It took many years and countless workers to complete this ambitious undertaking.
A Legacy of Wisdom
Solomon's reign was a time of peace and prosperity for Israel. His wisdom, as recorded in the book of Proverbs, continues to inspire people today. He reminds us that true success comes not from wealth or power, but from seeking God's guidance and living according to His word. As the renowned theologian John Calvin once said, "Solomon's wisdom was not mere human cleverness, but a divine gift, enabling him to discern God's will and apply it to the affairs of life."
Think About This:
The Old Testament offers Christians today a treasure trove of wisdom, history, and spiritual truth. While it may focus on the covenant relationship between God and Israel, its themes are timeless. When we look at Solomon’s rise to leadership in 2 Chronicles 1–2, we see the example of a young king who understood the enormity of his role and sought God’s guidance above all else. This narrative encourages Christians in every generation to prioritize God’s wisdom in our own lives and leadership.
Solomon’s first act as king—asking for wisdom—stands out as a model of humility and dependence on God. In 2 Chronicles 1:10, Solomon prays, “Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” This request reminds us that effective leadership, whether in the home, church, or community, starts with a heart surrendered to God. Pastor Charles Spurgeon once remarked, “Wisdom is the right use of knowledge. To know is not to be wise. Many men know a great deal and are all the greater fools for it. There is no fool so great a fool as a knowing fool. But to know how to use knowledge is to have wisdom.” Solomon’s example calls us to seek not just knowledge, but godly wisdom in our decisions.
The building of the temple in 2 Chronicles 2 further emphasizes Solomon’s dedication to God’s purposes. He recognized that the temple was more than a grand structure; it was a place where God’s presence would dwell among His people. Christians today should view our own lives as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), seeking to glorify God in all that we do. As Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe noted, “Solomon’s task was to build a house for God, but our task is to build a life for His glory.” This perspective challenges us to align our goals and ambitions with God’s greater plan.
In today’s culture, where leadership often focuses on power, prestige, and self-interest, Solomon’s early reign offers a countercultural example. His story reminds us that true leadership begins with submission to God’s authority, seeking His wisdom, and dedicating ourselves to His work. As we study Solomon’s rise to leadership, we are encouraged to ask ourselves: How can we crown Jesus as the King of our lives and use our gifts and opportunities to build His kingdom on earth?
This reflection encourages believers to see the Old Testament not as outdated history but as a living guide that reveals the character of God and the values He desires for His people across all generations.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
Solomon’s
Humble Request for Wisdom
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 1:10 (NIV)
– “Give
me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able
to govern this great people of yours?”
Comment:
Solomon didn’t ask for wealth or a long life, but for wisdom to
lead his people well. This shows his humility and desire to honor
God, rather than focusing on selfish desires. It's important to teach
that God honors those who seek wisdom and guidance rather than
selfish requests.
God’s
Generosity in Answering Prayer
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 1:11-12 (NIV)
– “God
said to Solomon, ‘Since this is your heart’s desire and you have
not asked for wealth, possessions or honor, nor for the death of your
enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom
and knowledge to govern my people, whom I have made you king over,
therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you. And I will also
give you wealth, possessions and honor, such as no king who was
before you ever had and none after you will have.’”
Comment:
God’s answer to Solomon’s prayer was not just wisdom but also the
wealth and honor that Solomon didn’t ask for. This teaches us that
when we focus on serving others and seeking God’s will, He blesses
us in ways we don’t even expect or deserve. It’s a reminder that
God’s generosity is beyond what we imagine.
The
Building of the Temple as a Sign of Solomon’s Leadership
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 2:1 (NIV)
– “Solomon
gave orders to build a temple for the Name of the Lord, and a royal
palace for himself.”
Comment:
One of the first major acts of Solomon's reign was to begin building
the Temple, a permanent place for God’s presence. This act was a
reflection of Solomon’s commitment to honor God in his leadership.
For us, this reminds us that when we lead in any way, it’s
important to keep God at the center of everything.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
The Surprising Thing About Solomon’s Request
You might think that when Solomon became king, he would ask for power, wealth, or revenge on his enemies. Instead, Solomon asks for wisdom. It’s surprising because people often think of kings asking for wealth and fame. But Solomon’s humble request for wisdom shows us that God cares more about our hearts and our desire to serve others than about our personal gain. In fact, God was so pleased with Solomon’s unselfish request that He not only gave Solomon wisdom but also gave him the wealth and honor he hadn’t asked for. This reminds us that God values a humble heart that seeks to honor Him and serve others, rather than focusing on self-interest.
Discussion Questions:
1. What was Solomon's first request from God, and why was it significant?
Solomon asked God for wisdom to govern His people effectively. This request demonstrates Solomon's humility and recognition of his need for divine guidance in leadership. It also shows his prioritization of serving others over personal gain, which pleased God greatly.
2. How did Solomon's wisdom manifest in his early reign?
Solomon's wisdom was evident in his judicial decisions, like the famous case of the two mothers claiming the same child. His ability to discern truth and administer justice fairly established his reputation as a wise ruler. This wisdom also extended to his governance, diplomacy, and building projects.
3. In what ways did Solomon's father, David, influence his early leadership?
David charged Solomon to be strong, act like a man, and observe God's requirements. This fatherly advice emphasized the importance of obedience to God as the foundation for successful leadership. Solomon initially followed this counsel, which contributed to his early success.
4. How did Solomon's actions to secure his throne reflect the political realities of his time?
Solomon took decisive action against potential threats to his rule, including executing his brother Adonijah While these actions may seem harsh, they were considered necessary to establish a firm grip on the kingdom and prevent civil unrest.
5. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's early success in leadership?
Solomon's early reign teaches us the importance of seeking God's wisdom, making just decisions, and establishing a strong foundation for leadership. It also highlights the value of learning from those who came before us, as Solomon did from David.
6. How does Solomon's rise to power demonstrate the connection between faith and practical leadership?
Solomon's story shows that biblical faith is not merely a personal, internal activity but has real-world applications. His success in statecraft, innovation, and justice was directly linked to his pursuit of God's wisdom and guidance.
Influence on Life Today:
Just like Solomon asked God for wisdom to lead his people well, we can learn about setting the right priorities in our lives today. When God offered Solomon anything he wanted, he didn't ask for money, power, or a long life - he asked for wisdom to serve others better. This reminds us to think carefully about what we pray for and what we truly value. In our modern world filled with social media, advertising, and pressure to acquire more things, Solomon's choice stands out. He shows us that true success isn't about having the most possessions or followers, but about having the wisdom to make good choices and help others.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- (2 Chronicles 1–2)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Wisdom Seeking →Demonstrates a humble desire for wisdom over riches or power, prioritizing God’s guidance. →2 Chronicles 1:7-12
2. Faith in God’s Promise →Trusts God’s promises and acts confidently in leadership, knowing God equips those He calls. →2 Chronicles 1:6
3. Prayerfulness →Engages in earnest prayer to seek God’s direction and blessing in major decisions. →2 Chronicles 1:3-4
4. Responsibility Acceptance →Willingly accepts the responsibility God has given, preparing to serve with diligence and integrity. →2 Chronicles 1:1
5. Gratitude →Expresses thankfulness for God’s provision and blessings, recognizing all good comes from Him. →2 Chronicles 1:11-12
6. God-Centered Leadership →Focuses leadership on glorifying God and building His kingdom rather than personal gain. →2 Chronicles 1:13-14
Take-Home Thought:
God's plan shown in these chapters goes far beyond just making Solomon a wise king. By giving Solomon wisdom and the resources to build the Temple, God was setting up a special place where His people could worship Him. Even though Solomon wasn't perfect, God used him as part of His bigger plan to show His love and care for His people. This reminds us that God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things when they put Him first. Just as Solomon's Temple became a place where people could learn about God, we too can be part of God's plan by using our gifts to help others know Him better. The story of Solomon shows us that when we seek God's wisdom first, He often provides other blessings along the way.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures that echo similar themes to those in 2 Chronicles 1–2, with a focus on wisdom, seeking God’s will, and God’s blessings:
Matthew
6:33 (NIV)
– “But
seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things
will be given to you as well.”
Comment:
Just like Solomon sought wisdom to govern God’s people, Jesus
teaches us that when we focus on God's kingdom and doing things His
way, He will bless us with what we need and more. Solomon’s story
reminds us of this truth: when we prioritize God, He takes care of
the rest.
James
1:5 (NIV)
– “If
any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to
all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
Comment:
Just as Solomon asked for wisdom and God gave it generously, James
encourages us to do the same. We can trust that God will give us
wisdom when we ask for it sincerely. This is a great reminder that
God is always ready to help us when we need guidance.
1
Kings 3:9-13 (NIV)
– “So
give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to
distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this
great people of yours? The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked
for this.”
Comment:
This passage, found in 1 Kings, mirrors the moment from 2 Chronicles.
It’s another example of Solomon asking for wisdom rather than
wealth or power. This story is important because it shows us that
when we seek God’s help to make wise choices, He is pleased with us
and will bless us accordingly.
Session
2:
Build
the House of the Lord: Solomon’s Temple Construction (2 Chronicles
3–5)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The detailed construction and dedication of the Temple in
Jerusalem.
Purpose:
To reflect on the significance of the Temple as a physical and
spiritual center for the people of Israel, emphasizing the importance
of honoring God through tangible acts of worship and devotion.
Read: 2 Chronicles 3–5
Lead-in Question: How does the construction of Solomon's Temple reflect God's relationship with His people?
Overview:
A Promise Fulfilled
King David, Solomon's father, had a dream to build a magnificent temple for God, but God chose Solomon to fulfill that dream. In 2 Chronicles 3-5, we read about the incredible construction of this temple in Jerusalem. The Bible tells us, "Now Solomon began to build the house of the Lord at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where the Lord appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite" (2 Chronicles 3:1).
A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship
The temple was a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. Skilled workers used the finest materials like gold, silver, and cedar wood. The interior was adorned with intricate carvings and precious stones. The Bible describes it as "exceedingly magnificent" (2 Chronicles 3:3). It was a testament to God's glory and a symbol of His presence among His people.
A Time of Celebration
When the temple was finally completed, there was a great celebration throughout the land. The people rejoiced and offered sacrifices to God. The Bible says, "And at the time of the evening, even at the going down of the sun, Solomon lighted the lamps: and the priests waited continually upon their office" (2 Chronicles 6:13). The temple became the center of religious life for the Israelites.
A Legacy of Faith
The construction of Solomon's Temple was a significant event in Israel's history. It demonstrated Solomon's dedication to God and his commitment to fulfilling his father's vision. As the renowned biblical scholar, F.F. Bruce, observed, "The temple was not merely a building; it was a symbol of God's covenant relationship with his people."
A Lasting Inspiration
Though the original temple was eventually destroyed, its legacy continues to inspire people of faith today. It reminds us of the importance of building our lives on a foundation of faith and dedicating ourselves to God's service. As the great preacher, Charles Spurgeon, once said, "The temple was a type of the human heart, which God desires to inhabit."
Think About This:
Solomon’s construction of the temple was a monumental moment in Israel’s history. It symbolized God’s presence among His people and stood as a reminder of His faithfulness to His covenant promises. For Christians today, the story of the temple challenges us to consider how we live as God’s people and how we honor His presence in our lives.
In 2 Chronicles 3, Solomon begins building the temple on Mount Moriah, a place rich in spiritual significance. This was the same location where Abraham prepared to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22), reminding us that God’s promises and His provision are central to our worship. The temple wasn’t just a building—it was a place where people could encounter God. Charles Spurgeon once said, “Nothing teaches us about the preciousness of the Creator as much as when we learn the emptiness of everything else.” Solomon’s temple directed the hearts of the Israelites away from worldly distractions and toward God’s glory. For Christians today, it challenges us to make worship a priority in our lives.
When Solomon dedicated the temple in 2 Chronicles 5, the glory of the Lord filled the house so powerfully that the priests couldn’t stand to minister (5:14). This moment reveals the holiness and majesty of God. While we no longer worship in a physical temple, the New Testament teaches that we are now God’s temple. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 6:19, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?” This truth reminds us to live in a way that reflects God’s presence in us, making our lives a testimony to His greatness.
The ornate beauty of Solomon’s temple also teaches us about giving our best to God. The gold, cedar, and fine craftsmanship weren’t for human pride but to honor God. Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe wrote, “True worship is beautiful because it glorifies God and not man. It comes from a loving heart that wants to please God and a humble spirit that wants to exalt Him.” This challenges us to consider how we can honor God not only in worship but in every area of our lives, offering Him the best of our time, energy, and resources.
As Christians in this generation, we can view the story of Solomon’s temple as a call to worship, obedience, and reverence. Just as the Israelites built the temple to glorify God, we are called to build lives that reflect His presence. Whether through our relationships, work, or acts of service, we can honor God and point others to His glory.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
The
Importance of Building a House for God
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 3:1 (NIV)
– “Then
Solomon began to build the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem on Mount
Moriah, where the Lord had appeared to his father David. It was on
the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite, the place provided by
David.”
Comment:
Solomon’s decision to build the Temple on Mount Moriah, the very
place where David had experienced God’s presence, highlights the
deep connection between worship and location. The Temple wasn’t
just a building; it was a holy place where God’s people could meet
with Him. This teaches us that setting aside special places for
worship—whether a church, a home altar, or a personal prayer
space—helps us draw nearer to God and honor Him in our lives.
Detailed
and Thoughtful Preparation for Worship
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 3:3-4 (NIV)
– “The
foundation Solomon laid for building the temple of God was sixty
cubits long and twenty cubits wide. The portico at the front of the
temple was twenty cubits long across the width of the temple, and
twenty cubits high. He overlaid the inside with pure gold.”
Comment:
The detailed measurements and the gold overlay demonstrate that
Solomon took the construction of the Temple very seriously. Every
detail was meant to honor God. When we dedicate ourselves to worship
and service, it’s important to give our best to God—not just in
big ways, but in small, thoughtful details. This teaches us that God
deserves our best efforts in all we do.
God’s
Presence in the Temple
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 5:13-14 (NIV)
– “The
trumpeters and musicians joined in unison to give praise and thanks
to the Lord. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals and other instruments,
the singers raised their voices in praise to the Lord and sang: ‘He
is good; his love endures forever.’ Then the temple of the Lord was
filled with the cloud, and the priests could not perform their
service because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord filled the
temple of God.”
Comment:
The presence of God filled the Temple with His glory, showing that
the Temple was not just a beautiful building—it was where God
dwelled among His people. This teaches us that God values our
worship, and when we gather in His name, He is present with us in
powerful ways. We should never underestimate the significance of
coming together to honor God in worship, as it invites His presence
into our lives.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
God’s Presence Doesn’t Need a Building to Be Present, But He Chooses to Dwell Among Us
It may seem surprising that God, who created everything, would choose to dwell in a physical building like the Temple. After all, God is everywhere, right? But the beauty of the Temple was that it was a tangible way for the people of Israel to know that God was with them in a special, visible way. Even though we know God is everywhere, the Temple was a place where the people could gather to experience His presence. The surprising part is how God chooses to make His presence known in specific places and moments, inviting us into that space for relationship. Even though we don’t have a physical Temple like Solomon’s today, God still honors our spaces of worship and seeks to meet with us wherever we are.
Discussion Questions:
1. Why did God choose Solomon to build the Temple instead of David?
God told David that his son would build the Temple because David had shed much blood in wars (1 Chronicles 22:8-10). This reminds us that God's plans often unfold across generations, and He may use our children to complete what we start. It also shows that God values peace and purity in those who serve Him most closely.
2. What's the significance of the Temple being built on Mount Moriah?
Solomon built the Temple on Mount Moriah, where God had appeared to David and where Abraham had been willing to sacrifice Isaac (2 Chronicles 3:1). This location connects the Temple to key moments in Israel's history, showing how God's plan unfolds over time and how He remains faithful to His promises across generations.
3. How long did it take to build the Temple, and what might this teach us about patience in serving God?
It took Solomon seven years to complete the Temple (1 Kings 6:38). This long process reminds us that serving God often requires patience and perseverance. Just as the Temple wasn't built in a day, our spiritual growth and service to God take time and consistent effort.
4. What promise did God make to Solomon during the Temple's construction?
God promised Solomon that if he followed His commands, He would live among the Israelites and not abandon them (1 Kings 6:11-13) This promise shows that God's presence is conditional on obedience, but also that He desires to dwell with His people. How does this relate to our understanding of God's presence in our lives today?
5. How does the detail and craftsmanship of the Temple reflect on our approach to worship?
Solomon spared no expense or effort in building the Temple, using the finest materials and skilled craftsmen (1 Kings 5:17-18) This attention to detail reminds us that we should give our best in our worship and service to God. How can we apply this principle in our church and personal lives?
Influence on Life Today:
The story of building Solomon's Temple can teach us a lot about how we serve God today. Just like Solomon used the finest materials and most skilled workers to build God's house, we should give our best in whatever we do for God. This doesn't mean we need gold and precious stones - instead, it means putting our whole heart into serving at church, helping others, or even keeping up our church buildings. The way Solomon carefully planned and organized the Temple construction also reminds us that doing things for God deserves our careful attention and best effort. Even if we're just organizing a church potluck or cleaning the sanctuary, we can do it with excellence as an act of worship.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 3–5)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Obedience to God’s Commands →Faithfully follows God’s instructions, understanding the importance of honoring His design and purpose. →2 Chronicles 3:1
2. Dedication to God’s Work →Commits time, resources, and energy wholeheartedly to build and sustain God’s presence among His people. →2 Chronicles 4:9-10
3. Attention to Detail →Pursues excellence and precision in service to God, reflecting reverence and respect in all aspects. →2 Chronicles 3:7-13
4. Community Participation →Recognizes that God’s work involves collective effort, uniting people for a common spiritual goal. →2 Chronicles 5:12-14
5. Reverence in Worship →Cultivates a deep respect for God’s holiness, preparing the heart and environment for His presence. →2 Chronicles 5:13-14
6. Vision for Legacy →Builds with long-term purpose, creating a spiritual heritage that will impact future generations. →2 Chronicles 3:1; 5:2
Take-Home Thought:
While Solomon's Temple was incredibly beautiful, God's bigger plan wasn't just about having a fancy building. The Temple was meant to be a place where God's presence could dwell among His people - a physical symbol of His desire to be close to them. Today, because of Jesus, we don't need a grand temple to meet with God. The Bible tells us that believers themselves are now temples of the Holy Spirit. This shows how God's plan has always been moving toward a more personal relationship with His people. The detailed description of the Temple's beauty and grandeur in Chronicles helps us understand just how precious we are to God - if He wanted His Temple to be so magnificent, imagine how much care He puts into shaping our lives as His modern-day temples. Just as the Temple was meant to draw people to worship God, our lives should also point others toward Him.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from the Bible that echo the importance of the Temple and worship, focusing on the spiritual significance of our connection to God:
John
4:21-24 (NIV)
– “Jesus
replied, ‘Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship
the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem... Yet a time is
coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the
Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of
worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must
worship in the Spirit and in truth.’”
Comment:
Jesus explains that worship is not about a specific location (like
the Temple in Jerusalem) but about worshiping God in spirit and
truth. While the Temple was an important place for the people of
Israel, Jesus shows us that true worship is about the heart—a
reminder that God wants our sincere devotion, wherever we are.
1
Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)
– “Do
you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is
in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you
were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your
bodies.”
Comment:
This verse connects to the idea of the Temple by teaching us that as
Christians, our bodies are now the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit.
Just as Solomon built a physical Temple for God to dwell in, we are
called to honor God in our lives and bodies, knowing that He is with
us and we carry His presence.
Romans
12:1 (NIV)
– “Therefore,
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer
your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is
your true and proper worship.”
Comment:
Paul encourages us to offer ourselves as living sacrifices to God,
just as the Temple was a place where sacrifices were made. Our lives
are now the place where God is honored, and we worship God through
our actions, our service, and our hearts—much like the dedication
of the Temple in 2 Chronicles.
Session
3:
Witness
God’s Glory: The Temple Dedication (2 Chronicles 6–7)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The dedication of the Temple and the manifestation of God’s
glory.
Purpose:
To understand the significance of dedicating spaces and actions to
God and the importance of God’s presence in our lives, exploring
the deep relationship between worship, prayer, and divine approval.
Read: 2 Chronicles 6–7
Lead-in Question: How does the dedication of Solomon's Temple show us God's desire to be present with His people?
Overview:
A Solemn Dedication
After years of construction, King Solomon held a grand ceremony to dedicate the magnificent temple he had built for God. In 2 Chronicles 6-7, we witness this powerful event. Solomon offered a long and heartfelt prayer, asking God to bless His people and to hear their prayers from this holy place.
A Miraculous Sign
As Solomon finished his prayer, a miraculous event occurred. Fire descended from heaven and consumed the sacrifices on the altar. The Bible says, "And when all Israel saw the fire come down, and the glory of the Lord fill the house, they bowed their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshiped and gave praise unto the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever" (2 Chronicles 7:3). This was a powerful sign that God had accepted the temple and was present among His people.
God's Promise and Warning
God appeared to Solomon in a vision and reaffirmed His covenant with the Israelites. He promised to hear their prayers from this holy place, but He also warned them about the consequences of disobedience. The Bible states, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14).
A Lasting Legacy
The dedication of the temple was a momentous occasion in Israel's history. It marked a time of great spiritual renewal and demonstrated God's power and faithfulness. As the renowned theologian, John Wesley, observed, "The temple was a symbol of the church, the true dwelling place of God."
A Call to Worship
The story of the temple dedication reminds us of the importance of seeking God's presence in our lives. It encourages us to come before Him in prayer and worship, and to live lives that are pleasing to Him. As the hymn writer, Isaac Watts, penned, "O for a closer walk with God, A calm and heavenly frame; A light to shine upon the road That leads me to the Lamb."
Think About This:
The dedication of Solomon’s temple was a powerful moment that displayed God’s glory and reminded Israel of His presence among them. For Christians today, this event holds deep spiritual lessons about worship, prayer, and the faithfulness of God. By reflecting on Solomon’s prayer and God’s response, we can see how the truths of the Old Testament apply to our lives in meaningful ways.
In 2 Chronicles 6, Solomon prays an earnest and heartfelt prayer of dedication, acknowledging God’s greatness and asking for His continued presence and guidance. Solomon says, “But will God really dwell on earth with humans? The heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built!” (6:18). This humility reminds us that while God is infinitely greater than anything we can imagine, He desires to be close to His people. Pastor Warren Wiersbe noted, “True worship is acknowledging the greatness of God and the smallness of man.” In our generation, this truth reminds us to approach God in worship with reverence and awe, knowing that He is both transcendent and near.
In 2 Chronicles 7, God responds to Solomon’s prayer by filling the temple with His glory. The fire from heaven and the overwhelming presence of the Lord reveal His approval and His holiness. The people’s response—bowing with their faces to the ground and worshiping God—teaches us that true worship arises from recognizing who God is. Similarly, Christians are called to honor God in every area of life, living as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). As Charles Spurgeon said, “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.”
God also gave Solomon and Israel a promise during the dedication: if they humbled themselves, prayed, sought His face, and turned from their wicked ways, He would hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land (7:14). While this promise was given specifically to Israel, the principle still applies to believers today. It reminds us of the power of prayer, repentance, and seeking God’s presence in every season of life.
As Christians in this generation, the dedication of Solomon’s temple encourages us to prioritize worship, live in humility before God, and trust in His faithfulness. Just as the Israelites experienced God’s glory, we too can experience His presence when we gather to worship, pray, and commit our lives to Him. Solomon’s example calls us to be faithful stewards of God’s blessings and to ensure that every aspect of our lives reflects His glory.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
Solomon’s
Prayer of Dedication
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 6:14-15 (NIV)
– “He
prayed: ‘O Lord, the God of Israel, there is no God like you in
heaven or on earth—you who keep your covenant of love with your
servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way. You have kept your
promise to your servant David my father; with your mouth you have
promised and with your hand you have fulfilled it—as it is
today.’”
Comment:
Solomon begins the dedication of the Temple by acknowledging God's
faithfulness and His promise to David. Solomon’s prayer reminds us
of the importance of recognizing God's past faithfulness when we
dedicate anything to Him, whether it's a space, our time, or our
lives. This teaches us to start with gratitude for God’s promises
and faithfulness.
The
Significance of God’s Presence in the Temple
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 6:18-20 (NIV)
– “But
will God really dwell on earth with humans? The heavens, even the
highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have
built! Yet give attention to your servant’s prayer and his plea for
mercy, O Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant
is praying in your presence. May your eyes be open toward this temple
day and night, this place of which you said you would put your Name
there.”
Comment:
Solomon humbly recognizes that no building can fully contain God’s
presence, but he prays that God will choose to dwell in the Temple
and listen to the prayers offered there. This shows us that God’s
presence is not limited to physical spaces, but when we dedicate our
places to Him, they become special spaces where we can experience His
presence. Solomon’s prayer teaches us that dedication involves
recognizing the greatness of God, who chooses to meet with us.
God’s
Response with His Glory
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 7:1-2 (NIV)
– “When
Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the
burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled
the temple. The priests could not enter the temple of the Lord
because the glory of the Lord filled it.”
Comment:
When Solomon’s prayer was finished, God responded with a visible
sign of His approval—fire came from heaven, and His glory filled
the Temple. This moment demonstrates that God honors sincere worship
and devotion. God’s glory being revealed in the Temple reminds us
that when we dedicate spaces and actions to Him, we open ourselves to
experiencing His presence in powerful ways.
The
Importance of Obedience and Continued Dedication
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
– “If
my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray
and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear
from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their
land.”
Comment:
This verse shows God’s desire for His people to stay humble, pray,
and remain obedient. God’s promise to Solomon was not just about
the Temple—it was about the hearts of the people. God responds to
sincere hearts, and He is always ready to heal and forgive. This
teaches us that dedication is an ongoing act—God calls us to
continue humbling ourselves and seeking His presence through prayer
and repentance.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
God Desires Our Hearts More Than a Perfect Temple
It might surprise you that God, who is so great, chose to reveal His glory in the Temple, a building built by human hands. After all, God doesn’t need a physical building to be with His people—He is everywhere. The surprise comes when we realize that the Temple wasn’t just a building—it was a symbol of God's presence among His people. But the real dedication was not the building itself, but the hearts of the people who worshiped there. God desires our hearts more than our offerings or sacrifices. Even though the Temple was a special place for God’s presence, He is more concerned with how we live and worship, both in physical spaces and in our lives. God doesn’t need a perfect space, but He desires us to give Him our hearts in genuine worship.
Discussion Questions:
1. What happened when Solomon finished praying at the Temple dedication?
When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the sacrifices, and God's glory filled the Temple. This miraculous event showed God's approval and His willingness to dwell among His people. It reminds us that God still desires to be present in our lives and our worship today.
2. How did the people respond to seeing God's glory in the Temple?
The Israelites fell face down, worshiped God, and praised Him, saying, "He is good! His faithful love endures forever!". This reaction shows us the proper response to God's presence - humility, worship, and recognition of His goodness and love. How can we cultivate this attitude in our own worship?
3. What did Solomon's prayer teach us about God's relationship with His people?
Solomon's prayer highlighted God's faithfulness to His promises, especially to David. It also emphasized that God's blessings are connected to obedience. This teaches us that God keeps His word, but also calls us to be faithful to Him. How does this challenge us in our walk with God?
4. What important promise did God make in response to Solomon's prayer?
God promised to hear the prayers offered in the Temple, forgive sins, and heal the land if His people humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways. This shows God's willingness to forgive and restore His people. How can we apply this promise to our lives today?
5. Why is it significant that Solomon offered so many sacrifices during the dedication?
Solomon offered thousands of animals as sacrifices, showing his commitment to honoring God. This reminds us that worship often involves sacrifice. While we don't offer animal sacrifices today, how can we show our dedication to God through our giving and service?
Influence on Life Today:
When Solomon dedicated the Temple, it was a time of great celebration and community worship. This reminds us how important it is to come together as a church family to praise God and mark special moments. In our busy modern lives, we sometimes forget the power of gathering with other believers to pray and worship. Solomon's long prayer of dedication also teaches us about how to pray - he was humble before God, remembered God's promises, and prayed not just for himself but for all the people. This shows us that our prayers can go beyond our personal needs to include our church, community, and even our nation.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 6–7)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Humility in Prayer →Approaches God with a humble heart, recognizing human frailty and God’s greatness during worship. →2 Chronicles 6:14-16
2. Confession and Repentance →Willingly admits sin and turns back to God, trusting His mercy and forgiveness. →2 Chronicles 6:26-27
3. Dependence on God →Understands that success and blessing come from God’s presence, not human effort alone. →2 Chronicles 7:1-3
4. Faithfulness in Covenant →Commits to maintaining a faithful relationship with God according to His covenant terms. →2 Chronicles 6:14-15
5. Hope in God’s Promises →Trusts God to hear prayers and act on behalf of His people in times of trouble and distress. →2 Chronicles 7:12-14
6. Celebration of God’s Presence →Recognizes and rejoices in the manifestation of God’s glory as a powerful, confirming presence among His people. →2 Chronicles 7:1-3
Take-Home Thought:
God's response to Solomon's dedication of the Temple gives us a wonderful picture of His faithfulness. When God's glory filled the Temple with a cloud, it showed that He keeps His promises to be present with His people. Even more amazing is God's promise in chapter 7 that when His people humble themselves, pray, and turn from wrong ways, He will hear from heaven and forgive. This promise wasn't just for Solomon's time - it still stands for us today. While we no longer worship at the Temple in Jerusalem, God's pattern of responding to sincere prayer and repentance hasn't changed. The Temple dedication shows us that God deeply desires to be in relationship with His people and will always make a way for us to return to Him when we stray. This is the same God we serve today, just as eager to hear our prayers and respond with His presence in our lives.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are some New Testament scriptures that connect to the themes of worship, God’s presence, and dedication from the Temple Dedication in 2 Chronicles 6–7:
John
4:23-24 (NIV)
– “Yet
a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will
worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind
of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers
must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
Comment:
Jesus tells us that true worship isn’t about a physical place, but
about worshiping God in spirit and truth. While the Temple in
Jerusalem was a holy place in the Old Testament, Jesus reveals that
God desires worship from the heart. This connects with Solomon’s
dedication of the Temple, showing that God is more concerned with our
hearts than with the physical spaces we build for Him.
1
Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)
– “Do
you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is
in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you
were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your
bodies.”
Comment:
Just as the physical Temple in Jerusalem was dedicated to God, Paul
teaches that our bodies are now temples of the Holy Spirit. This
shows that God wants to dwell in us and that our actions and lives
should reflect His presence. We can dedicate our lives to God by
honoring Him with how we live.
Romans
12:1 (NIV)
– “Therefore,
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer
your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is
your true and proper worship.”
Comment:
Paul encourages us to offer our lives as living sacrifices to God,
just as the people in Solomon’s time offered sacrifices in the
Temple. Instead of offering animals, we are called to offer our whole
lives to God as acts of worship. This reinforces the idea that
worship and dedication are about what’s inside us—not just the
physical places or actions we take.
Session
4:
Expand
the Kingdom: Solomon’s Wealth and Wisdom (2 Chronicles 8–9)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
Solomon's prosperity, wisdom, and expansion of Israel’s
influence.
Purpose:
To see how God’s blessings of wisdom and wealth enabled Solomon to
build a powerful and prosperous kingdom, teaching us to use our
resources wisely in accordance with God’s will.
Read: 2 Chronicles 8–9
Lead-in Question: How did Solomon's wealth and wisdom reflect God's blessings and purposes for Israel?
Overview:
A Time of Prosperity
King Solomon's reign was a period of great prosperity for Israel. He expanded the kingdom's borders, strengthened its defenses, and engaged in extensive trade with other nations. The Bible says, "Solomon's provisions for every year were of thirty thousand cors of fine flour, and sixty thousand measures of meal, thirty thousand baths of oil. He also had a great number of horses; his own stables contained four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen" (2 Chronicles 9:25-26).
A Visit from the Queen of Sheba
Solomon's wisdom and wealth attracted attention from far and wide. The Queen of Sheba, a powerful ruler from a distant land, traveled a great distance to see Solomon and test his wisdom. The Bible tells us, "And when the queen of Sheba had seen all the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built, and the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the Lord; there was no more spirit in her" (2 Chronicles 9:4). She was amazed by all she witnessed and acknowledged Solomon's extraordinary wisdom.
A Legacy of International Influence
Solomon's reign established Israel as a significant power in the ancient world. He forged diplomatic relationships with other nations, promoting trade and cultural exchange. His wisdom became legendary, and people from all over sought his counsel. As the historian, William Albright, observed, "Solomon's reign marked a high point in the political and economic development of ancient Israel."
A Warning for the Future
While Solomon's reign was a time of great success, it also contained the seeds of future decline. His pursuit of wealth and worldly possessions led him astray from God's commands. As the theologian, John Calvin, cautioned, "While Solomon's wisdom was a gift from God, it could only flourish in obedience to God's will."
A Reminder of God's Blessings
The story of Solomon's reign reminds us that God can bless us with abundance, wisdom, and influence. However, these blessings are not an end in themselves. True success lies in using our gifts to serve God and to bless others.
Think About This:
The reign of Solomon, especially in 2 Chronicles 8–9, was marked by extraordinary wealth, wisdom, and influence. His accomplishments not only demonstrated God’s blessings but also served as a fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel. For Christians today, Solomon’s story challenges us to view success, resources, and influence as tools to expand God’s kingdom, not for personal gain.
Solomon’s wisdom, given by God in response to his prayer, became famous throughout the ancient world. Leaders like the Queen of Sheba traveled great distances to witness his insight and the glory of his kingdom (2 Chronicles 9:1–8). Her reaction highlights an essential truth: Solomon’s greatness pointed others to God. She declared, “Praise be to the Lord your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on his throne as king to rule for the Lord your God” (9:8). This shows us that the purpose of God’s blessings in our lives is to bring Him glory and draw others to Him. As Charles Spurgeon said, “If your life is full of grace, the world will soon see it.”
The wealth and splendor of Solomon’s reign are described in detail in these chapters, from his trade ventures to his grand palace and military strength. Yet, the Bible also reminds us that material blessings come with responsibility. While Solomon initially used his resources to honor God—building the temple and strengthening Israel—his later years revealed the danger of losing focus. Jesus warned in Matthew 6:19-21, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Christians today should view their wealth, talents, and influence as opportunities to serve God, always guarding their hearts against greed or pride.
For modern believers, Solomon’s story reminds us to seek God’s wisdom above all else. Warren Wiersbe wrote, “God gives wisdom not to make us smarter sinners but to equip us to live for His glory and the good of others.” Like Solomon, we are called to steward what God has given us wisely, using our resources to share His love and expand His kingdom. Whether through acts of generosity, sharing the gospel, or supporting ministries, we can ensure that our lives reflect God’s priorities.
Ultimately, Solomon’s reign points to Jesus Christ, the true King of kings. While Solomon’s wealth and wisdom were impressive, they were temporary. In Christ, we find the perfect King whose reign is eternal, whose wisdom is unmatched, and whose kingdom will never fade. This gives us hope and inspires us to live faithfully, using everything we have to glorify God and make Him known.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
God’s
Blessing of Wisdom and Wealth
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 9:22-23 (NIV)
– “King
Solomon was richer and wiser than all the other kings of the earth.
All the kings of the world sought audience with Solomon to hear the
wisdom God had put in his heart. Year after year, everyone who came
brought a gift—articles of silver and gold, robes, weapons, and
spices, and horses and mules.”
Comment:
Solomon’s wealth and wisdom were gifts from God. His wisdom made
him famous, and his wealth grew because of his wise decisions. This
teaches us that God blesses us when we use the gifts He gives us
wisely. Whether it’s wisdom, resources, or talents, God desires
that we use everything He provides for His glory and to bless others.
Solomon’s
Use of Wealth for the Kingdom’s Growth
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 8:1-2 (NIV)
– “At
the end of twenty years, during which Solomon built the temple of the
Lord and his own palace, Solomon rebuilt the villages that Hiram had
given him, and settled Israelites in them.”
Comment:
Solomon didn’t just accumulate wealth for himself, but used it to
build and expand the kingdom. He built cities, fortified towns, and
improved the infrastructure of Israel. This shows us that wealth is
not meant to be hoarded but used to benefit others and strengthen
God’s work. When we have resources, whether time, money, or
talents, we should ask how they can be used to help others and
advance God’s kingdom.
Solomon’s
Influence Over Other Nations
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 9:26 (NIV)
– “He
ruled over all the kings from the Euphrates River to the land of the
Philistines, as far as the border of Egypt.”
Comment:
Solomon’s wisdom and wealth led to peace and influence over many
nations. Israel was recognized as a powerful and prosperous kingdom.
This teaches us that when we walk in wisdom and integrity, we gain
influence in the world. The choices we make can have a far-reaching
impact, just as Solomon’s did.
The
Queen of Sheba’s Visit to Solomon
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 9:3-4 (NIV)
– “When
the queen of Sheba heard of Solomon’s fame, she came to Jerusalem
to test him with hard questions. Arriving at Jerusalem, with a very
great caravan—with camels carrying spices, large quantities of gold
and precious stones—she came to Solomon and talked with him about
all that she had on her mind.”
Comment:
The Queen of Sheba came to test Solomon, but she left amazed at his
wisdom and wealth. She acknowledged that Solomon’s prosperity was a
result of God’s favor. This reminds us that people often notice
when we live according to God’s wisdom, and our lives can be a
witness to God’s greatness. Solomon’s example shows that our
success and wisdom should lead others to glorify God.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
Solomon’s Wealth Did Not Come from Selfishness, But from Generosity and Wisdom
You might be surprised to learn that Solomon’s wealth didn’t come from hoarding or greed. It came from his wisdom and his willingness to use his resources for the good of the kingdom and to honor God. We often think of wealthy people as selfish or focused only on their own gain, but Solomon’s wealth grew because he was generous and wise in using what he had for the benefit of others. God rewarded Solomon’s heart of wisdom, and because he was faithful in small matters, God blessed him with great wealth. This shows us that God is more interested in how we use what He gives us than in how much we have.
Discussion Questions:
1. Why did God give Solomon such great wealth and wisdom?
God blessed Solomon with wealth and wisdom because Solomon asked for wisdom to lead God's people rather than personal gain. This shows that when we seek God's will first, He often blesses us beyond our expectations. How might this encourage us to prioritize God's purposes in our own lives?
2. How did Solomon's wisdom impact his reign and Israel's reputation?
Solomon's wisdom surpassed all others, attracting people from all nations to hear him. This brought glory to God and expanded Israel's influence. It reminds us that when we use God's gifts wisely, it can draw others to seek Him. How can we use our God-given abilities to point others to Christ?
3. What dangers did Solomon face because of his great wealth?
Despite his wisdom, Solomon's wealth led him to excesses and disobedience to God, including marrying foreign wives who influenced him to worship other gods. This warns us that even the wisest person can be led astray by material abundance. How can we guard our hearts against the temptations that come with prosperity?
4. How did Solomon's building projects reflect God's blessings on Israel?
Solomon undertook many building projects, including the Temple, which demonstrated God's favor on Israel. These grand structures were a testament to God's blessings and Israel's prosperity. In what ways can we use our resources to honor God and bless others?
5. What lessons can we learn from Solomon about the relationship between wisdom and wealth?
Solomon taught that wealth itself isn't evil, but the love of money is dangerous. He wrote, "The blessing of the LORD makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it" (Proverbs 10:22). This teaches us to view wealth as a gift from God to be used wisely, not as an end in itself. How can we cultivate a healthy attitude toward money and possessions?
Influence on Life Today:
Solomon's incredible wealth and wisdom drew people from all over the world, including the Queen of Sheba, to learn from him and hear about God. This teaches us that when we use our gifts and blessings wisely, it can open doors to share our faith with others. Even today, when people see Christians living wisely and using their resources to help others, they become curious about our faith. Solomon's example shows us that success and wealth aren't bad things when they're used to honor God and serve others. However, we also need to remember that having lots of money or being really smart isn't what makes us valuable to God - it's how we use what He's given us that matters.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 8–9)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Humility vs. Pride →Recognizes the danger of pride in leadership and the importance of humility to maintain unity and God’s favor. →2 Chronicles 10:16
2. Wise Counsel Seeking →Values wise, godly advice over peer pressure or personal ambition. →2 Chronicles 10:7-8
3. Consequences of Disobedience →Understands that ignoring God’s ways can lead to division, hardship, and decline. →2 Chronicles 11:1-4
4. Repentance and Correction →Encourages turning back to God to restore broken relationships and blessings. →2 Chronicles 12:6-7
5. Recognizing God’s Sovereignty →Acknowledges God’s control over nations and leaders, even amid political turmoil. →2 Chronicles 10:15; 12:7
6. The Cost of Division →Sees how division weakens communities, emphasizing the value of unity under God’s guidance. →2 Chronicles 11:17-23
Take-Home Thought:
Looking at the bigger picture of God's plan, Solomon's prosperity served a greater purpose than just making Israel rich and famous. His wisdom and wealth became tools that spread knowledge of the true God to other nations. This was part of God's plan to make Himself known to all people, not just the Israelites. The fact that leaders like the Queen of Sheba came to hear Solomon's wisdom and left praising Israel's God shows how God can use our success to draw others to Him. Even today, God's plan still involves using His people to share His truth with those who don't know Him. Just as Solomon's reputation brought opportunities to glorify God, our lives - whether simple or grand - can be platforms for sharing God's love with others. This reminds us that everything we have, whether it's wisdom, wealth, or talents, can be used to help fulfill God's plan of reaching people with His love.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from both the Old and New Testament that connect with the themes of wisdom, wealth, and using resources wisely:
Matthew
6:19-21 (NIV)
– “Do
not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and
vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up
for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not
destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your
treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Comment:
Jesus teaches us that our wealth and resources should be used in ways
that reflect God’s kingdom. The treasures we store in heaven are
the things we do for God’s glory and others’ good. Solomon’s
wealth was not an end in itself; it was a tool to bring glory to God
and serve His purposes.
James
1:5 (NIV)
– “If
any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to
all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
Comment:
Just as Solomon asked for wisdom and God gave it generously, James
reminds us that we can ask God for wisdom. Wisdom is key in using our
resources in ways that please God and bless others. It’s important
to pray for wisdom, just as Solomon did, to make good decisions with
the resources we have.
Luke
16:10 (NIV)
– “Whoever
can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and
whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with
much.”
Comment:
This verse highlights the importance of being faithful with what we
have, no matter how little or much it is. Solomon’s wisdom allowed
him to manage the wealth God gave him responsibly. This teaches us
that the way we handle the small things in life can prepare us for
greater responsibility and blessing in the future.
Session
5: Divide and Decline: Rehoboam and the Split Kingdom (2 Chronicles
10–12)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The division of Israel under King Rehoboam’s leadership and the
resulting decline of the kingdom.
Purpose:
To learn from Rehoboam’s failure to seek wise counsel and
understand the consequences of poor leadership choices and division,
emphasizing the need for humility and unity in leadership.
Read: 2 Chronicles 10–12
Lead-in Question: How did Rehoboam's choices lead to the division of God's people, and what can we learn from this historical event?
Overview:
A Divided Kingdom
After Solomon's death, his son Rehoboam became king. However, Rehoboam made some unwise decisions that led to a major division of the kingdom. The people of Israel, feeling burdened by heavy taxes, pleaded with Rehoboam to lighten their load. Instead of listening to their concerns, Rehoboam followed the advice of his young advisors, who urged him to be harsh.
A Nation Divided
This arrogant response angered the people, and ten of the twelve tribes of Israel rebelled against Rehoboam. They chose Jeroboam, one of Solomon's officials, to be their king, and established a new kingdom in the north. Only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin remained loyal to Rehoboam, forming the southern kingdom of Judah with Jerusalem as its capital.
The Consequences of Disobedience
The division of the kingdom had devastating consequences. It weakened Israel, making them vulnerable to attack from their enemies. It also led to years of conflict and bloodshed between the two kingdoms. The Bible says, "So Israel rebelled against the house of David unto this day" (2 Chronicles 11:14).
A Warning for All Generations
The story of Rehoboam serves as a powerful warning about the dangers of pride, arrogance, and disobedience. As the renowned theologian, Martin Luther, observed, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."
A Call for Unity
Despite the division, the story of Rehoboam also reminds us of the importance of unity and reconciliation. We are called to strive for peace and harmony, to listen to the concerns of others, and to seek God's guidance in all our decisions.
Think About This:
The story of Rehoboam and the split kingdom in 2 Chronicles 10–12 is a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride, poor leadership, and disobedience to God. Rehoboam’s failure to lead with humility and wisdom caused division in Israel, splitting the united kingdom of David and Solomon into two: Israel in the north and Judah in the south. For Christians today, this account challenges us to examine how we handle conflict, seek God’s guidance, and live in obedience to His Word.
Rehoboam’s mistake began when he ignored wise counsel. The elders advised him to serve the people with humility and kindness, but he chose the harsh, self-serving advice of his peers (2 Chronicles 10:6–14). This decision led to rebellion and division. Charles Spurgeon observed, “Humility is the proper estimate of oneself before God.” Rehoboam’s pride blinded him to the needs of the people and the importance of unity. For Christians, this story highlights the value of seeking godly wisdom and approaching others with humility, especially in leadership and relationships.
In 2 Chronicles 12, Rehoboam and the people of Judah experienced God’s discipline when they abandoned His law. Egypt invaded, and Judah’s wealth and security were stripped away. This judgment served as a wake-up call. Rehoboam and the leaders humbled themselves before God, and He showed mercy, declaring, “They have humbled themselves; therefore I will not destroy them” (12:7). This reminds us that God is gracious to forgive and restore when we repent. As pastor Warren Wiersbe wrote, “God in His mercy does not give us what we deserve, and in His grace, He gives us what we don’t deserve.”
The split kingdom also serves as a warning about the long-term consequences of turning away from God. Rehoboam’s actions didn’t just affect his generation—they set the stage for centuries of conflict and idolatry in Israel and Judah. Christians today should view this as a call to remain faithful to God’s Word and to make decisions that honor Him. Division within families, churches, or communities often stems from pride, selfishness, or a lack of reliance on God. By seeking unity in Christ and following His example of humility, we can avoid the mistakes of Rehoboam and work toward peace and reconciliation.
Ultimately, the story of Rehoboam reminds us that God’s purposes prevail even in the midst of human failure. Though the kingdom divided, God’s plan for redemption continued through the line of David, culminating in Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. For modern believers, this truth offers hope and encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty, even when circumstances seem broken. As we reflect on this story, let’s commit to leading with humility, seeking God’s wisdom, and working toward unity in His name.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
Rehoboam’s
Failure to Seek Wise Counsel
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 10:6-8 (NIV)
– “Then
King Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon
during his lifetime. ‘How would you advise me to answer these
people?’ he asked. They replied, ‘If you will be kind to these
people and please them and give them a favorable answer, they will
always be your servants.’ But Rehoboam rejected the advice the
elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him
and were serving him.”
Comment:
Rehoboam had the opportunity to seek wisdom from those who had
experience and understanding, yet he rejected their advice in favor
of the counsel of his peers, who lacked wisdom. This teaches us the
importance of seeking guidance from those who have experience and
wisdom, especially in tough decisions. Pride can often lead us to
ignore the advice of others, which can have disastrous consequences.
The
Consequence of Rehoboam’s Poor Decision
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 10:16-17 (NIV)
– “When
all Israel saw that the king refused to listen to them, they answered
the king: ‘What share do we have in David, what part in Jesse’s
son? To your tents, Israel! Look after your own house, David!’ So
all the Israelites went home. But as for the Israelites who were
living in the towns of Judah, Rehoboam still ruled over
them.”
Comment:
Rehoboam’s refusal to listen to wise counsel led to the division of
the kingdom. Ten of the twelve tribes of Israel rebelled and formed
their own kingdom. This shows that poor leadership choices, such as
rejecting wise advice, can lead to division and loss of influence.
Rehoboam’s lack of humility and his failure to prioritize unity led
to the weakening of the nation.
Rehoboam’s
Repentance and God’s Mercy
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 12:5-7 (NIV)
– “Then
the prophet Shemaiah came to Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah, who
had assembled in Jerusalem for fear of Shishak, and said to them,
‘This is what the Lord says: You have abandoned me; therefore, I
now abandon you to Shishak.’ The leaders of Israel and the king
humbled themselves and said, ‘The Lord is just.’ When the Lord
saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the Lord came to
Shemaiah: ‘Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy
them but will soon give them deliverance. I will not completely
destroy Judah; I will preserve a remnant of them.’”
Comment:
After the kingdom was weakened and faced the threat of invasion,
Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah humbled themselves before God. This
shows that even when we make mistakes, there is always room for
repentance and God's mercy. God honored their humility and promised
not to completely destroy them. Humbling ourselves before God in
times of failure is key to experiencing His mercy and restoration.
The
Importance of Humility and Unity in Leadership
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 10:7 (NIV)
– “They
replied, ‘If you will be a servant to this people and serve them
and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your
servants.’”
Comment:
The wise counsel given to Rehoboam emphasized the importance of
serving the people. True leadership involves humility and serving
others, not just ruling over them. When leaders serve with humility,
they build unity and trust. Rehoboam’s failure to listen to this
advice led to division and downfall. This teaches us that good
leadership is about serving others, listening to wise counsel, and
valuing unity over personal gain.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
Humility Can Lead to Great Strength in Leadership
You might be surprised to learn that true strength in leadership doesn’t come from being in charge or having power—it comes from humility and serving others. Rehoboam’s refusal to listen to the advice to serve the people resulted in division and loss of power. His pride made him think that ruling with force would make him strong, but it only led to weakness and division. In contrast, leaders who humble themselves and put the needs of others first often have more influence and create lasting unity. This teaches us that humility is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of true strength and wisdom.
Discussion Questions:
1. Why did the people ask Rehoboam to lighten their load, and how did he respond?
The people asked Rehoboam to lighten the heavy yoke his father Solomon had put on them. Instead of listening to the wise elders, Rehoboam followed the advice of his young friends and threatened to make the people's burden even heavier. This reminds us of the importance of seeking and heeding wise counsel, especially when making decisions that affect others. How can we ensure we're listening to godly wisdom in our own lives?
2. How did God use this situation to fulfill His earlier prophecy?
God had already told Solomon that He would tear the kingdom away from him because of his idolatry, leaving only one tribe for David's sake. This shows that God's plans will come to pass, even through human choices and mistakes. How does this truth about God's sovereignty comfort or challenge us?
3. What was the immediate result of the kingdom's division?
The kingdom split into two: the Southern Kingdom (Judah and Benjamin) under Rehoboam, and the Northern Kingdom (the other ten tribes) under Jeroboam. This division weakened the nation and led to centuries of conflict. How might this serve as a warning about the consequences of disunity in the church today?
4. How did Rehoboam's leadership style differ from what God desires in a leader?
Rehoboam chose to rule harshly rather than serve the people. This contrasts with Jesus' teaching that true leaders should be servants. How can we cultivate servant leadership in our church and personal lives?
5. What spiritual consequences did the division have for both kingdoms?
While Judah remained more faithful to God overall, both kingdoms experienced periods of idolatry and disobedience. The Northern Kingdom quickly fell into apostasy under Jeroboam. This reminds us that division often leads to spiritual decline. How can we guard against division and promote unity in our church family?
Influence on Life Today:
The story of Rehoboam teaches us important lessons about pride and listening to others. When the people came to him asking for lighter burdens, he ignored the wise advice of older counselors and instead listened to his young friends who told him to be harsh and tough. This reminds us to be careful about whose advice we follow, especially when making important decisions. In our own lives, whether we're dealing with family relationships, church matters, or work situations, pride and stubbornness can cause deep divisions. Rehoboam's story shows us how refusing to listen and compromise can tear relationships apart and have long-lasting consequences that affect many people.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 10–12)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Commitment to Spiritual Renewal →Actively pursues revival by removing idols and restoring proper worship of God. →2 Chronicles 14:2-5; 17:3-6
2. Dependence on God in Battle →Trusts God for protection and victory rather than relying on military strength alone. →2 Chronicles 14:11; 20:15-17
3. Seeking God’s Guidance →Regularly inquires of God through prayer and prophets before making major decisions. →2 Chronicles 19:4-11; 20:3-4
4. Promoting Justice and Righteousness →Institutes reforms that encourage fairness and uphold God’s laws in society. →2 Chronicles 19:4-11
5. Encouragement and Leadership →Builds morale and encourages the people to remain faithful during challenges. →2 Chronicles 20:15-17
6. Faith in God’s Deliverance →Believes firmly that God will save and bless those who seek Him earnestly. →2 Chronicles 20:20-22
Take-Home Thought:
The splitting of Solomon's kingdom might seem like a failure in God's plan, but it actually shows how God can work even through human mistakes. While the division was caused by Rehoboam's poor choices, God had already foretold this would happen because of Solomon's disobedience in his later years. Even in this time of division and decline, God didn't abandon His people. He still worked to preserve a remnant of faithful followers through the tribe of Judah, keeping His promise to David that his family line would continue. This reminds us that even when things seem to be falling apart, God is still in control and working out His purposes. The split of the kingdom also teaches us that actions have consequences, but God's faithfulness continues even when we fail. He can use even difficult situations to accomplish His bigger plan of redemption.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments that emphasize the importance of humility, unity, and seeking wise counsel in leadership:
Proverbs
12:15 (NIV)
– “The
way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to
advice.”
Comment:
This verse reinforces the lesson from Rehoboam’s story. Foolishness
leads to ignoring wise counsel, but wisdom comes from listening to
others. Humility in leadership means recognizing that we don’t have
all the answers and being open to guidance from those with
experience.
Philippians
2:3-4 (NIV)
– “Do
nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility
value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but
each of you to the interests of the others.”
Comment:
Paul encourages humility in leadership, focusing on the needs of
others over personal gain. This parallels the counsel given to
Rehoboam, which emphasized serving the people. True leadership is
about considering the welfare of others, not just asserting one’s
authority.
Matthew
20:26-28 (NIV)
– “Not
so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be
your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just
as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to
give his life as a ransom for many.”
Comment:
Jesus teaches that greatness in the kingdom of God comes through
serving others. This is the opposite of what Rehoboam did—he chose
to rule over the people harshly, rather than serve them. Jesus'
example of leadership through humility challenges us to follow His
example by leading with love and service to others.
Session
6:
Return
to the Lord: The Reforms of Asa and Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles
13–20)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The reforms and faithfulness of kings Asa and Jehoshaphat as they
sought to return Israel to the Lord.
Purpose:
To examine the role of godly leadership in spiritual revival,
recognizing the importance of repentance, faithfulness, and trusting
God in times of crisis.
Read: 2 Chronicles 13–20
Lead-in Question: How did the reforms of Asa and Jehoshaphat demonstrate their commitment to God and impact the spiritual life of Judah?
Overview:
Kings Who Sought the Lord
After a period of decline, two kings named Asa and Jehoshaphat led the southern kingdom of Judah back to God. They both recognized the importance of following God's laws and sought to restore true worship. The Bible says, "And Asa did that which was right in the eyes of the Lord all the days of his life" (2 Chronicles 15:17).
Reforms and Revival
Asa and Jehoshaphat implemented significant reforms to bring the people back to God. They removed idols, restored the temple, and encouraged the people to study God's word. They also strengthened the army and fortified the kingdom's defenses. These actions led to a period of spiritual and national renewal.
Trusting in God's Power
King Jehoshaphat faced a formidable enemy – a vast army of Moabites, Ammonites, and others. Instead of relying on his own strength, Jehoshaphat turned to God in prayer. The Bible tells us, "And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah" (2 Chronicles 20:3).
A Miraculous Victory
God answered Jehoshaphat's prayer in a miraculous way. He caused the enemy armies to turn against each other, leading to their complete defeat. This victory demonstrated the power of God and the importance of trusting in Him, even when facing seemingly insurmountable odds. As the theologian, Jonathan Edwards, observed, "True religion, in great part, consists in a holy fear of God."
A Legacy of Faith
The reigns of Asa and Jehoshaphat serve as powerful reminders of the blessings that come from following God's ways. They show us that when we turn to God in faith and obedience, He will be with us in all our trials and challenges.
Think About This:
The stories of King Asa and King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 13–20 show us what happens when God’s people return to Him with humble and faithful hearts. Both kings led reforms that brought Judah back to God during times of spiritual and moral decline. Their examples remind Christians today of the importance of repentance, reliance on God, and living in obedience to His Word.
King Asa began his reign by seeking the Lord and removing idols from the land (2 Chronicles 14:2–5). His commitment to God brought peace and prosperity to Judah. When faced with a massive enemy army, Asa prayed, “Lord, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, Lord our God, for we rely on you” (14:11). God answered his prayer, giving Judah a great victory. Asa’s life teaches us that trusting in God and rejecting anything that competes with Him leads to spiritual strength. As Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe noted, “Faith is not believing in spite of evidence; faith is obeying in spite of consequence.” Christians today are called to remove anything from our lives that draws us away from God and to trust Him in every battle we face.
Similarly, Jehoshaphat sought to honor God by teaching His law throughout Judah and leading the nation in worship (2 Chronicles 17:7–10). When a vast coalition of enemies came against him, Jehoshaphat prayed, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (20:12). God responded with the assurance that the battle was His, not theirs (20:15). Jehoshaphat’s story reminds us that prayer and worship are powerful tools in the face of challenges. Charles Spurgeon wrote, “Prayer is the slender nerve that moves the muscle of omnipotence.” For Christians, this means turning to God first, trusting Him to fight our battles, and praising Him even in difficult circumstances.
Despite their faithfulness, both Asa and Jehoshaphat made mistakes later in life. Asa relied on human alliances instead of God (16:7–9), and Jehoshaphat made unwise partnerships with wicked kings (18:1–3; 20:35–37). These failures show us that even the most faithful believers must guard against complacency and the temptation to compromise. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:12, “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall.”
For Christians today, the reforms of Asa and Jehoshaphat are a call to return to God with renewed commitment, trust Him in all circumstances, and live in obedience to His Word. When we seek Him wholeheartedly, God is faithful to lead, protect, and restore us. Their stories also remind us that God’s mercy is greater than our failures, offering hope and encouragement to continue walking with Him.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
Asa’s
Reforms and Trust in God
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 14:2-4 (NIV)
– “Asa
did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord his God. He
removed the foreign altars and the high places, smashed the sacred
stones and cut down the Asherah poles. He commanded Judah to seek the
Lord, the God of their ancestors, and to obey his laws and
commands.”
Comment:
King Asa took bold steps to remove idol worship and called the people
of Judah to seek the Lord and follow His commands. Asa’s actions
show that spiritual revival often begins with a return to God’s
Word and a commitment to remove anything that distracts us from Him.
Asa’s reforms remind us that Godly leadership is about setting a
good example and leading people toward repentance and obedience to
God.
Asa’s
Dependence on God in Times of Crisis
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 14:11 (NIV)
– “Then
Asa called to the Lord his God and said, ‘Lord, there is no one
like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O Lord
our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against
this vast army. O Lord, you are our God; do not let mere mortals
prevail against you.’”
Comment:
When Asa faced a large enemy army, he didn’t rely on his own
strength or military power. Instead, he turned to God in prayer,
acknowledging that only God could help them. This teaches us that in
times of crisis, our first response should be to turn to God in
prayer and trust in His power to deliver us. Asa’s faith shows us
the importance of depending on God rather than relying on our own
abilities.
Jehoshaphat’s
Trust in God and Reform Efforts
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 17:3-4 (NIV)
– “The
Lord was with Jehoshaphat because he followed the ways of his father
David before him. He did not consult the Baals but sought the God of
his father and followed his commands rather than the practices of
Israel.”
Comment:
Jehoshaphat was faithful to God and sought to follow God’s commands
rather than the false gods that others were worshiping. His
faithfulness led to prosperity for Judah. Jehoshaphat’s example
shows us that godly leadership involves not just personal
faithfulness, but also encouraging others to follow God’s ways.
Jehoshaphat’s example teaches us the importance of remaining
faithful to God in all things, especially during times when others
may be turning away from Him.
Jehoshaphat’s
Response to Crisis: Prayer and God’s Promise
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 20:12 (NIV)
– “Our
God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast
army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes
are on you.”
Comment:
When Jehoshaphat faced a coalition of enemy armies, he acknowledged
his helplessness and turned to God in prayer. His trust in God’s
ability to deliver them is a powerful example of faith in action.
When we face challenges that feel overwhelming, like Jehoshaphat, we
can turn to God, acknowledging our need for Him and trusting that He
will provide the strength and wisdom we need.
God’s
Response to Humility and Faith
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 20:15 (NIV)
– “He
said: ‘Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and
Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: Do not be afraid or
discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours,
but God’s.’”
Comment:
God spoke through a prophet to remind Jehoshaphat and the people that
they did not need to fear because the battle was God’s to fight.
This is a powerful reminder that when we trust God and humble
ourselves, He fights on our behalf. God’s response shows us that
faithfulness, humility, and prayer bring God’s favor and
intervention in our lives.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
God’s Response to Humble Leaders and Trusting Communities
You may be surprised to learn that God’s response to Jehoshaphat’s prayer was not just about delivering him from his enemies, but also about affirming the importance of a humble and faithful leadership. Jehoshaphat didn’t try to fight on his own; instead, he gathered his people, sought God, and acknowledged their weakness. God honored this humility, saying the battle was His to fight. Sometimes we think that leaders need to be strong, self-reliant, and independent, but in reality, godly leaders are those who depend on God and encourage others to do the same. God delights in those who humbly trust in Him, and He is quick to respond when His people turn to Him in faith.
Discussion Questions:
1. What prompted Asa to begin his religious reforms?
Asa began his reforms after hearing a message from the prophet Azariah, who encouraged him to seek God and warned of the consequences of abandoning Him. This shows how God often uses His messengers to inspire change in His people. How might God be speaking to us today, calling us to reform areas of our lives?
2. How did Jehoshaphat build upon the reforms of his father Asa?
Jehoshaphat followed in Asa's footsteps but went even further. He removed idols, repaired the altar of the Lord, and set up a system to teach God's law throughout Judah This reminds us that each generation has the opportunity to deepen their commitment to God. How can we build on the spiritual legacy of those who came before us?
3. What was the result of Jehoshaphat's reforms on the kingdom of Judah?
As a result of Jehoshaphat's faithfulness, the Lord established his kingdom. Judah experienced peace, and Jehoshaphat received honor and riches This shows how seeking God first can lead to blessings in other areas of life. How have you seen God's blessings in your life when you've put Him first?
4. Why was Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab problematic?
Despite Jehoshaphat's reforms, he made an alliance with Ahab, king of Israel, who was known for his wickedness. This alliance was criticized by the prophet Jehu. It reminds us that even godly leaders can make unwise decisions. How can we discern which alliances or partnerships are pleasing to God?
5. How did Jehoshaphat respond to criticism from the prophet Jehu?
Instead of becoming defensive, Jehoshaphat responded to Jehu's criticism by implementing further reforms, including appointing judges and charging them to act justly in the fear of the Lord. This shows the importance of humility and responsiveness to godly correction. How can we cultivate a heart that's open to constructive criticism in our spiritual lives?
Influence on Life Today:
The reforms of Asa and Jehoshaphat show us what it means to take a stand for what's right, even when it's not popular. Asa removed idols from the land and encouraged people to follow God, even standing up to his own grandmother when she promoted idol worship. In today's world, we often face pressure to compromise our faith or stay quiet about our beliefs. These kings remind us that real change often starts with one person being brave enough to do what's right. Jehoshaphat went even further by sending teachers throughout the land to help people understand God's law. This shows us the importance of not just believing the right things ourselves, but also helping others learn about God through Bible study and teaching.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 13–20)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Spiritual Renewal →Initiates heartfelt reforms by removing idols and renewing worship, turning hearts back to God. →2 Chronicles 14:2-5; 17:3-6
2. Dependence on God →Demonstrates trust in God’s protection and provision, especially in times of conflict and uncertainty. →2 Chronicles 14:11; 20:15-17
3. Prayerful Leadership →Seeks God’s guidance through prayer before decisions, leading with humility and faith. →2 Chronicles 19:4-11; 20:3-4
4. Justice and Accountability →Promotes fairness by appointing judges and encouraging adherence to God’s laws in society. →2 Chronicles 19:4-11
5. Encouraging Faith in Others →Inspires and uplifts the community, strengthening their trust in God amid challenges. →2 Chronicles 20:15-17
6. Confidence in God’s Deliverance →Holds firm belief that God will rescue and bless those who earnestly seek Him and obey His commands. →2 Chronicles 20:20-22
Take-Home Thought:
Looking at God's bigger plan, these chapters show us how God continues to work through faithful leaders to bring people back to Him. Even after the kingdom split and things looked dark, God raised up kings like Asa and Jehoshaphat to lead people back to true worship. This pattern of falling away and returning to God appears throughout the Bible and continues today. The story of Jehoshaphat's victory over his enemies when he put his trust in God (chapter 20) is especially meaningful - it shows that when we face overwhelming problems, our first response should be to turn to God in prayer. Just as God was patient with His people during this time of reforms and revivals, He continues to be patient with us today, always ready to respond when we turn back to Him with sincere hearts. These stories remind us that no matter how far we or our society may drift from God, He always provides a way back through repentance and reform.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments that emphasize the importance of repentance, faithfulness, and trusting God, especially in times of crisis:
2
Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
– “If
my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray
and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear
from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their
land.”
Comment:
This verse reflects the heart of God’s response to Asa,
Jehoshaphat, and the people of Israel. Humbling ourselves, praying,
and turning from sin leads to God’s healing and restoration. God
promises that when His people seek Him with all their hearts, He will
respond with forgiveness and deliverance.
James
4:10 (NIV)
– “Humble
yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
Comment:
This verse echoes the humility shown by both Asa and Jehoshaphat.
They humbled themselves before God in prayer and received His help.
James reminds us that when we humble ourselves, God will lift us up
and honor our trust in Him.
Matthew
17:20 (NIV)
– “He
replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if
you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this
mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing
will be impossible for you.’”
Comment:
Jesus teaches that even a small amount of faith in God can lead to
incredible results. Asa and Jehoshaphat both demonstrated faith in
God during their crises, and God responded mightily. This teaches us
that trusting God, even in small steps, can result in powerful
outcomes when we believe in His ability to work on our behalf.
Session
7:
Turn
Away from Evil: Wicked Kings and Their Downfall (2 Chronicles
21–24)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The rise and fall of wicked kings in Judah and their destructive
actions.
Purpose:
To learn from the consequences of turning away from God and how sin
leads to downfall, encouraging us to choose righteousness and to
remain faithful to God.
Read: 2 Chronicles 21–24
Lead-in Question: How do the reigns of Jehoram, Ahaziah, and Joash demonstrate the consequences of turning away from God?
Overview:
A Descent into Darkness
The book of 2 Chronicles 21-24 tells the story of several kings of Judah who sadly turned away from God and led the nation into a period of decline. King Jehoram, for example, walked in the wicked ways of Ahab, king of Israel, and abandoned the Lord. The Bible warns, "He walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as did the house of Ahab: for he had the daughter of Ahab to wife: and he wrought evil in the eyes of the Lord" (2 Chronicles 21:6).
Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoram's disobedience had dire consequences. He faced invasions from neighboring enemies, suffered from a painful disease, and ultimately met a tragic end. His reign serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. As the wise King Solomon wrote in Proverbs, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding" (Proverbs 9:10).
A Brief Glimpse of Hope
Amidst this period of decline, there was a brief glimmer of hope. King Joash, under the guidance of the faithful priest Jehoiada, experienced a period of reform. He repaired the temple of the Lord and restored the worship of God. However, this period of renewal was short-lived. Joash later turned away from God and met a violent end.
The Importance of Faithful Leadership
The stories of these kings highlight the crucial role of godly leadership. When leaders turn away from God, it has a devastating impact on the entire nation. As the influential theologian John Calvin observed, "The duty of kings is not merely to rule, but to rule in righteousness and to promote the glory of God."
A Call to Return to God
The book of 2 Chronicles 21-24 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God in all circumstances. It encourages us to choose His ways, to seek His guidance, and to live lives that honor Him.
Think About This:
The accounts of the wicked kings in 2 Chronicles 21–24 show us the dangers of rejecting God and the inevitable consequences of evil leadership. Kings like Jehoram, Ahaziah, and Joash began their reigns with opportunities to honor God, but their decisions to embrace wickedness led to their downfall and brought suffering to their people. For Christians today, these stories serve as warnings to turn away from sin, trust in God’s ways, and recognize the lasting impact of our choices.
Jehoram, who married into the idolatrous family of King Ahab, turned away from the ways of his father, Jehoshaphat, and led Judah into idolatry and wickedness (2 Chronicles 21:6). His reign was marked by rebellion, judgment, and ultimately a painful death. His story reminds us that alliances and influences matter. Charles Spurgeon once warned, “Beware of no man more than of yourself; we carry our worst enemies within us.” Christians must guard their hearts and align their lives with God’s Word, avoiding partnerships or habits that lead us away from Him.
Ahaziah, Jehoram’s son, followed in his father’s footsteps, continuing the evil practices of Ahab’s house (2 Chronicles 22:3–4). His brief reign ended in tragedy, showing that those who persist in sin often reap the consequences of their actions. For believers today, his story highlights the importance of breaking free from cycles of sin and choosing to live according to God’s standards. As the apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 6:7, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Joash, who began his reign with the godly guidance of Jehoiada the priest, is an example of how even a good start doesn’t guarantee a faithful finish. While Joash restored the temple and led Judah back to worship initially, he turned to evil after Jehoiada’s death, leading to idolatry and even the murder of Jehoiada’s son, Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:17–22). His story reminds us to remain steadfast in our faith and not waver, even when godly influences are no longer present. Warren Wiersbe observed, “It’s not enough to begin well; we must also end well if we want to glorify God.”
For Christians in this generation, these stories challenge us to examine our hearts, reject evil influences, and seek to live lives that honor God. They remind us that sin has consequences, but God’s grace is always available to those who repent and turn back to Him. By learning from the failures of these kings, we can strive to live faithfully, trusting in God’s wisdom and walking in His ways all our days.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
King
Jehoram’s Wickedness and Rebellion
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 21:4-6 (NIV)
– “When
Jehoram established himself firmly over the kingdom, he and his
officials made an alliance with the people of Israel. He married
Ahab's daughter and began to do evil in the eyes of the Lord,
following the ways of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had
done, for he considered Ahab’s daughter to be his wife. He did what
was evil in the eyes of the Lord.”
Comment:
Jehoram followed the wicked ways of Israel’s kings and led Judah
into sin by marrying Ahab’s daughter, who encouraged him to worship
idols. This action shows the dangerous influence of ungodly alliances
and the importance of guarding our hearts and relationships. When we
compromise our faith through wrong alliances, it can lead us down a
path of destruction.
Jehoram’s
Consequences for Sinful Choices
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 21:18-20 (NIV)
– “After
all this, the Lord afflicted Jehoram with an incurable disease of the
bowels. In the course of time, at the end of the second year, his
bowels came out because of the disease, and he died in great pain.
His people made no fire in his honor, as they had for his ancestors.
He was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in
Jerusalem eight years. He passed away, to no one's regret, and was
buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the
kings.”
Comment:
Jehoram’s reign ended tragically, and he died in disgrace. His
downfall shows the consequences of turning away from God and leading
others into sin. This teaches us that sin, while it may seem to offer
temporary pleasure or power, ultimately leads to pain, disgrace, and
destruction. God does not honor those who choose evil over
righteousness.
King
Ahaziah’s Continued Wickedness
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 22:3-4 (NIV)
– “He
too followed the ways of the house of Ahab, for his mother encouraged
him to act wickedly. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord, as the
house of Ahab had done, for they were his advisers after the death of
his father. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord, as the house of Ahab
had done, for they were his advisers after the death of his
father.”
Comment:
Like his father Jehoram, Ahaziah continued to follow the evil ways of
Ahab’s family. He was influenced by those around him, especially
his mother, who encouraged him to do wicked things. This teaches us
that the people we surround ourselves with can influence our choices.
It’s essential to choose relationships that encourage us to walk in
God’s ways rather than lead us astray.
The
Downfall of Athaliah’s Wickedness
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 22:10-12 (NIV)
– “When
Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she
proceeded to destroy the entire royal family of the house of Judah.
But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram, took Joash son of
Ahaziah and stole him away from the royal princes who were about to
be murdered, and put him and his nurse in a bedroom. Because
Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram, the wife of the priest
Jehoiada, was Ahaziah's sister, she hid the child from Athaliah so
that he was not killed.”
Comment:
Athaliah, driven by power and greed, sought to destroy the royal
family to seize control. However, God’s protection through
Jehosheba kept Joash safe, and he later became king. This incident
shows how evil can lead to destruction and violence, but also how God
preserves His plans, even in the midst of wickedness.
King
Joash’s Reign and His Fall into Sin
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 24:1-2 (NIV)
– “Joash
was seven years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem
forty years. His mother’s name was Zibiah; she was from Beersheba.
Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the years of
Jehoiada the priest.”
Comment:
Joash initially did what was right, influenced by the godly priest
Jehoiada. However, after Jehoiada’s death, Joash turned away from
God and allowed idolatry to return to Judah. This teaches us that we
must not only begin well but also stay faithful throughout our lives.
Leadership and godly counsel are crucial in keeping us on the right
path, but we must choose to remain faithful to God, regardless of
circumstances.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
The Danger of Turning Away from God After a Good Start
You may be surprised to learn that even those who start well with God can fall into sin if they do not stay faithful to Him. King Joash’s story is a perfect example of this. While he began his reign by following God’s ways and doing what was right, after the death of his spiritual mentor, Jehoiada, he turned away from God and led the people into idolatry. It’s easy to think that as long as we start strong, we’re okay, but the truth is that spiritual life is a marathon, not a sprint. Staying faithful to God requires continuous effort, intentional choices, and the right influences. Just because someone starts well doesn’t guarantee they will finish well unless they remain steadfast in their commitment to God.
Discussion Questions:
1. Why did Jehoram kill his brothers when he became king?
Jehoram likely killed his brothers to eliminate potential rivals and secure his power. This shows how the desire for power can lead to terrible sins. It reminds us that we should seek to serve others rather than dominate them, as Jesus taught. How can we guard against the temptation to put our own interests above others?
2. How did Jehoram's marriage alliance with Ahab's family affect Judah?
Jehoram's marriage to Ahab's daughter led him to do evil like the kings of Israel. This illustrates the danger of unequal partnerships, especially in marriage. How can we ensure our close relationships encourage us to follow God rather than lead us astray?
3. What was God's response to Jehoram's wickedness?
God sent a letter through the prophet Elijah, warning Jehoram of coming judgment. He then allowed enemies to attack Judah and afflicted Jehoram with a painful disease. This shows that while God is patient, He does judge sin. How should this motivate us to live righteously?
4. How did Joash's reign change after the death of Jehoiada the priest?
While Jehoiada lived, Joash did what was right, but after Jehoiada's death, Joash turned to idolatry. This demonstrates the importance of godly mentors and the danger of bad influences. How can we cultivate relationships that keep us accountable to God?
5. What can we learn from the cycle of reform and apostasy in these chapters?
These chapters show how quickly people can turn from God, even after periods of revival. It reminds us to be vigilant in our faith and not take God's blessings for granted. How can we maintain our commitment to God even when those around us fall away?
Influence on Life Today:
These chapters about wicked kings serve as powerful warnings about the dangers of turning away from God and the impact our choices have on others. When these kings chose to follow false gods and do evil, it didn't just affect them - it hurt their families and led many people astray. This reminds us that our actions, especially as leaders in our homes, churches, or communities, can influence others either toward or away from God. We see this today when parents' choices affect their children's faith, or when church leaders' decisions impact their congregation. The story of young King Joash also shows how important good mentors are - he did well while his godly advisor Jehoiada lived, but later went astray without that guidance.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 21–24)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Awareness of Consequences →Understands that persistent evil and rebellion against God lead to judgment and downfall. →2 Chronicles 21:12-15; 24:20-22
2. Repentance Before Judgment →Encourages turning from sin early to avoid severe consequences and restore favor with God. →2 Chronicles 24:17-18
3. Rejecting Evil Influence →Recognizes the danger of ungodly advisors and influences that lead to destructive decisions. →2 Chronicles 21:1-7
4. God’s Justice is Inevitable →Trusts that God will bring justice in His timing, even when human judgment fails. →2 Chronicles 21:16-17; 24:20-22
5. Personal Responsibility →Accepts accountability for one’s actions and choices, knowing they impact not only oneself but others. →2 Chronicles 22:3-4
6. Hope in God’s Mercy →Holds onto the hope that God’s mercy remains available for those who sincerely repent and seek Him. →2 Chronicles 24:20-22
Take-Home Thought:
Even in this dark period of Judah's history, we can see God's faithfulness to His promises. Despite the evil of these kings, God preserved David's royal line because of His covenant to maintain David's dynasty until the Messiah would come. This reminds us that God's plans can't be stopped, even by human wickedness. Just as God preserved a faithful remnant during these troubled times, He continues to maintain His church today even when things look bleak. The contrast between these wicked kings and the faithful priest Jehoiada also shows us that God always has His people in place, working to preserve truth and faith even in difficult times. These chapters remind us that while evil may seem to succeed for a while, God's justice will ultimately prevail, and His purposes will be accomplished despite human failure.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments that emphasize the dangers of sin, turning away from God, and the importance of remaining faithful:
Proverbs
14:14 (NIV)
– “The
faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good man
rewarded for his.”
Comment:
This verse reminds us that the consequences of turning away from God
are real, and those who choose righteousness will receive God’s
rewards, while those who follow evil will face consequences. Just
like Jehoram and Ahaziah, those who live in sin will experience the
fruit of their actions.
Galatians
6:7-8 (NIV)
– “Do
not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.
Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap
destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will
reap eternal life.”
Comment:
This New Testament verse reinforces the idea that sin leads to
destruction, while living according to the Spirit leads to eternal
life. The downfall of the wicked kings in Judah illustrates the truth
of this principle. We cannot escape the consequences of our choices,
whether good or bad.
Revelation
3:15-16 (NIV)
– “I
know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were
either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot
nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
Comment:
Jesus warns the church in Laodicea about being lukewarm in their
faith. This relates to the story of Joash, who started strong but
turned away from God. God desires our wholehearted devotion and warns
against being indifferent or half-hearted in our commitment to Him.
Just as the kings of Judah who turned away from God faced
consequences, we too must choose to stay faithful.
Session
8:
Stand
Firm in Faith: The Righteousness of Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 29–32)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The faithful leadership of King Hezekiah and his reforms to restore
true worship.
Purpose:
To reflect on how standing firm in faith and making bold decisions to
restore righteousness can bring revival and deliverance, even in the
face of overwhelming challenges.
Read: 2 Chronicles 29–32
Lead-in Question: How did Hezekiah's faith and actions demonstrate true righteousness, and what can we learn from his example?
Overview:
A King Who Sought the Lord
King Hezekiah stands out in the history of Judah as a righteous and faithful leader. Unlike many of his predecessors, Hezekiah dedicated himself to restoring true worship to God. The Bible tells us, "In the first year of his reign, in the first month, he opened the doors of the temple of the Lord and repaired them" (2 Chronicles 29:3).
Reforming the Temple
Hezekiah recognized that the temple had been neglected and desecrated during the reign of his wicked father, Ahaz. He led a major restoration project, cleansing the temple and restoring proper worship practices. This included reinstating the daily sacrifices, celebrating the Passover, and encouraging the people to return to God.
Facing a Powerful Enemy
Hezekiah's reign was not without its challenges. The powerful Assyrian king, Sennacherib, invaded Judah and threatened to conquer Jerusalem. Faced with this imminent danger, Hezekiah turned to God in prayer and trusted in His protection.
A Miraculous Deliverance
The Bible recounts a miraculous deliverance from the Assyrian threat. An angel of the Lord struck down the Assyrian army, sparing Jerusalem from destruction. This event demonstrated the power of God to protect His people and the importance of trusting in Him, even in the face of overwhelming odds. As the prophet Isaiah proclaimed, "For the Lord will defend Jerusalem; the Lord will save the tents of Judah" (Isaiah 31:5).
A Legacy of Faith
Hezekiah's reign serves as an inspiring example of faithful leadership and the power of God's protection. It reminds us that even in the midst of adversity, we can trust in God's promises and experience His deliverance.
Think About This:
The reign of King Hezekiah in 2 Chronicles 29–32 is a powerful example of how faith, obedience, and reliance on God can lead to spiritual renewal and victory. Hezekiah’s commitment to righteousness brought revival to Judah after years of unfaithfulness under his father, King Ahaz. His story encourages Christians today to stand firm in their faith, seek God wholeheartedly, and trust Him in the face of challenges.
Hezekiah began his reign by reopening and repairing the temple, leading the people back to proper worship of God. He declared, “Our ancestors were unfaithful… that is why our fathers have fallen by the sword” (2 Chronicles 29:6–9). Recognizing the need for repentance, he called the people to rededicate themselves to the Lord. As Warren Wiersbe noted, “Revival begins with the Word of God, prayer, and a renewed commitment to obedience.” Christians today can apply this by making worship and Scripture central in their lives, allowing God to bring renewal to their hearts and communities.
When faced with the powerful Assyrian army led by Sennacherib, Hezekiah demonstrated unwavering faith. Despite the overwhelming odds, he encouraged the people, saying, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged… for there is a greater power with us than with him” (2 Chronicles 32:7). He prayed fervently, and God delivered Judah in a miraculous way, striking down the Assyrian forces. This reminds believers that God is our ultimate defender and strength. Charles Spurgeon emphasized, “Faith rests not upon what it sees, but upon what God has said.” In our generation, when we face trials, we can trust God’s promises and rely on His power to see us through.
Hezekiah also faced personal challenges, such as illness and pride. When he became gravely ill, he prayed, and God extended his life (2 Chronicles 32:24). However, he later struggled with pride over his wealth and achievements, a reminder that even godly leaders can stumble. His story teaches us to remain humble and give God the glory for all He does in our lives. As James 4:10 advises, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
For Christians, Hezekiah’s life offers practical lessons on faithfulness, prayer, and dependence on God. His example shows us the power of trusting God in adversity, the importance of leading others to worship, and the need to guard our hearts against pride. Like Hezekiah, we are called to stand firm in faith, trusting that the God who delivered Judah is the same God who works in our lives today.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
Hezekiah’s
Bold Decision to Restore Worship
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 29:3 (NIV)
– “In
the first month of the first year of his reign, he opened the doors
of the temple of the Lord and repaired them.”
Comment:
Hezekiah immediately took action to restore worship in Judah by
opening and repairing the doors of the temple that had been closed
during his father’s reign. This bold decision highlights the
importance of immediate action when it comes to restoring what has
been neglected or desecrated. Hezekiah teaches us that standing firm
in faith may require us to make difficult, bold decisions to honor
God, even when others may not understand or support those decisions.
Hezekiah’s
Call to Repentance and Consecration
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 29:5-6 (NIV)
– “He
said to the Levites, ‘Listen to me, Levites! Consecrate yourselves
now and consecrate the temple of the Lord, the God of your ancestors.
Remove all defilement from the sanctuary.’”
Comment:
Hezekiah’s call to consecrate the temple and the Levites emphasizes
the importance of purity and holiness in worship. He understood that
in order for God to dwell among His people, they needed to remove
everything that was impure or defiled. This action teaches us that
before we can fully experience God’s presence, we must remove sin
and impurities from our lives. Hezekiah’s leadership highlights how
faithfulness to God requires purity and a commitment to remove
anything that dishonors Him.
The
Spiritual Revival of Judah
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 29:36 (NIV)
– “Hezekiah
and all the people rejoiced at what God had brought about for his
people, because it was done so quickly.”
Comment:
Hezekiah’s reforms led to a sudden and significant spiritual
revival in Judah. The people rejoiced because God moved swiftly and
powerfully in response to their repentance and commitment to worship
Him. This teaches us that when we return to God in faith and
obedience, He can bring revival quickly and powerfully. We may
sometimes feel that restoration will take a long time, but God is
capable of bringing about swift and dramatic change when His people
sincerely seek Him.
Hezekiah’s
Dependence on God in Crisis
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 32:7-8 (NIV)
– “Be
strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the
king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater
power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but
with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our
battles.”
Comment:
When faced with the threat of the powerful Assyrian army, Hezekiah
encouraged the people to stand firm in faith, reminding them that
God’s power was greater than any earthly army. Hezekiah's
confidence in God's ability to deliver them shows that even in the
most overwhelming situations, we must place our trust in God, knowing
that He is greater than any enemy or obstacle.
God’s
Deliverance in Response to Faithfulness
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 32:21 (NIV)
– “And
the Lord sent an angel, who annihilated all the fighting men and the
commanders and the officers in the camp of the Assyrian king. So he
withdrew to his own land in disgrace, and when he entered the temple
of his god, some of his own sons struck him down with the
sword.”
Comment:
God miraculously delivered Hezekiah and Judah from the Assyrian army.
When the people of Judah stood firm in their faith and relied on God,
He responded with supernatural intervention. This teaches us that
when we are faithful and trust in God, He is able to deliver us from
impossible situations. Just as Hezekiah experienced God’s
deliverance, we can also trust that God will intervene when we stand
firm in faith.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
God Can Bring Revival Quickly
You may be surprised to learn how quickly God responded to Hezekiah’s reforms and the people’s repentance. It wasn’t a long, drawn-out process. Hezekiah’s leadership sparked immediate revival, and the people rejoiced at how fast things changed. This shows that God can bring spiritual renewal and transformation faster than we might expect. It also teaches us that God’s desire to restore us is immediate, and He is ready to respond when we sincerely turn back to Him. If we have fallen away from God or allowed things to grow cold in our lives, we don’t need to wait years to see change. God is ready and willing to move in our lives quickly when we seek Him with all our hearts.
Discussion Questions:
1. What was Hezekiah's first priority when he became king?
Hezekiah's first action was to reopen and repair the temple, showing his commitment to restoring proper worship of God. This reminds us that our relationship with God should be our top priority. How can we make worship and devotion to God central in our lives?
2. How did Hezekiah's reforms impact the spiritual life of Judah?
Hezekiah removed idols, restored temple worship, and reinstituted the Passover celebration. His actions led to a spiritual revival in Judah. This shows how godly leadership can positively influence an entire nation. In what ways can our faithfulness impact those around us?
3. What challenge did Hezekiah face from Assyria, and how did he respond?
When threatened by the Assyrian army, Hezekiah turned to God in prayer and trusted Him for deliverance. This demonstrates the power of faith in times of crisis. How can we cultivate a faith that stands firm in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges?
4. How did pride affect Hezekiah later in his reign?
After God healed him, Hezekiah became proud and did not respond appropriately to God's kindness. This led to God's anger against him and Judah. This reminds us that even godly people can fall into pride. How can we guard against pride in our own lives, especially after experiencing God's blessings?
5. What can we learn from Hezekiah's overall legacy?
Despite his later pride, Hezekiah is remembered as one of Judah's most righteous kings, compared favorably to David. His life shows that true righteousness involves active obedience to God and trust in Him, not just avoiding evil. How can we cultivate a righteousness that goes beyond simply avoiding sin?
Influence on Life Today:
Hezekiah's story shows us what real spiritual leadership looks like in action. Right from the start of his reign, he reopened the Temple and called people back to worship God. This teaches us that it's never too late to make a fresh start in our relationship with God, even if we've drifted away. When Hezekiah faced the mighty Assyrian army, he demonstrated amazing faith by trusting God instead of giving in to fear. This speaks to us today when we face our own overwhelming challenges - whether it's health problems, family troubles, or financial worries. Like Hezekiah, we can choose to turn to God first and trust Him even when things look impossible.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 29–32)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Restoration of True Worship →Initiates wholehearted restoration of God’s temple and proper worship, removing all idols and defilement. →2 Chronicles 29:3-19
2. Obedience to God’s Word →Leads by example in following God’s commandments faithfully and encouraging others to do the same. →2 Chronicles 31:20-21
3. Dependence on God in Crisis →Trusts God fully during threats and challenges, seeking His help rather than relying on human strength. →2 Chronicles 32:7-8
4. Prayerful Leadership →Consistently seeks God’s guidance and intervention through prayer. →2 Chronicles 30:18-20
5. Encouragement and Unity →Unites the people with encouragement and shared faith, fostering communal strength. →2 Chronicles 30:22-23
6. Courage to Stand Alone →Maintains faith and righteousness even when facing opposition or widespread unbelief. →2 Chronicles 31:1; 32:1-8
Take-Home Thought:
In God's bigger plan, Hezekiah's reign shows us how one person's faithfulness can bring revival to many people. After years of spiritual decline under previous kings, God used Hezekiah to lead a nationwide return to true worship. The dramatic deliverance from the Assyrian army proved that God is more powerful than any earthly force and that He honors those who trust in Him. This points forward to how God would ultimately deliver His people through Jesus Christ. Just as God protected Jerusalem when they turned to Him in faith, He continues to work powerfully today when His people trust Him completely. Hezekiah's story reminds us that no situation is too far gone for God to turn around, and that genuine faith and obedience can impact not just our own lives but entire communities. God's power to deliver hasn't diminished - He's still able to work miracles when we put our trust in Him.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments that emphasize the power of standing firm in faith, seeking God’s help in times of crisis, and the importance of righteousness:
Isaiah
55:6-7 (NIV)
– “Seek
the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the
wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let
them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them, and to our
God, for he will freely pardon.”
Comment:
This verse calls us to seek God while He is near, and He promises to
respond with mercy and forgiveness. Hezekiah’s reforms and the
people’s repentance are a reflection of this truth: when we turn to
God in sincerity, He responds with grace and mercy, bringing revival
and deliverance.
Matthew
17:20 (NIV)
– “He
replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if
you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this
mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing
will be impossible for you.’”
Comment:
Jesus reminds us that even a small amount of faith can lead to
miraculous outcomes. Hezekiah’s unwavering faith in God’s ability
to deliver Judah from the Assyrians demonstrates that when we stand
firm in faith, God can move mountains and bring about incredible
change.
Romans
12:1-2 (NIV)
– “Therefore,
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer
your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is
your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will
be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing
and perfect will.”
Comment:
This passage from Romans echoes the principles behind Hezekiah’s
reforms. True worship and faithfulness to God require a
transformation of the heart and mind, a turning away from sin, and a
commitment to live according to God’s will. Hezekiah’s decision
to restore the temple and bring people back to true worship is a
powerful example of living out this principle.
Session
9:
Repent
and Restore: Josiah’s Revival and Rediscovery of the Law (2
Chronicles 34–35)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The spiritual revival brought about by King Josiah's rediscovery of
the Law of the Lord.
Purpose:
To understand the power of repentance and the transforming impact of
returning to God's Word, as seen in Josiah’s reforms, and to
recognize the importance of renewing our commitment to God’s truth.
Read: 2 Chronicles 34–35
Lead-in Question: How did Josiah's actions and the rediscovery of God's Law lead to spiritual revival in Judah?
Overview:
A Young King Seeks the Lord
King Josiah, who began ruling at a young age, is remembered as one of the most righteous kings of Judah. He sought to please God and restore the nation to its former glory. The Bible says, "And he did that which was right in the eyes of the Lord, and walked in the ways of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left" (2 Chronicles 34:2).
The Rediscovery of the Law
During renovations at the temple, a remarkable discovery was made – the Book of the Law of Moses, which had been long forgotten. This event profoundly impacted Josiah. He was deeply moved by the words of the Lord and determined to bring the nation back into obedience to God's commands.
A Time of Spiritual Renewal
Josiah led a major religious revival throughout the land. He removed idols, destroyed places of pagan worship, and celebrated a great Passover feast. He encouraged the people to study God's word and to live according to His will. The Bible states, "There was no passover like that kept in Israel from the days of Samuel the prophet; neither did all the kings of Israel keep such a passover as Josiah kept, and all his servants, and all the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and the priests, and the Levites" (2 Chronicles 35:18).
A Legacy of Faithfulness
Josiah's reign serves as a powerful example of the importance of seeking God's will and obeying His commands. It reminds us that even when we have strayed from God's path, it is never too late to repent and return to Him. As the prophet Jeremiah wrote, "Let us return unto the Lord: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up" (Jeremiah 3:22).
Think About This:
The story of King Josiah in 2 Chronicles 34–35 is a stirring reminder of the power of repentance and restoration. Josiah’s faithful leadership brought spiritual revival to Judah during a time of deep moral and spiritual decay. For Christians today, his example shows the importance of returning to God’s Word, repenting of sin, and seeking to live in obedience to Him.
Josiah became king at just eight years old, yet he sought the Lord wholeheartedly from an early age. By the time he was twenty, he began purging Judah of idolatry and restoring the temple (2 Chronicles 34:3–8). His reforms remind us that no one is too young or too insignificant to be used by God. Josiah’s actions demonstrate the importance of removing sin and distractions from our lives to make room for God. As theologian J.I. Packer said, “Revival is the visitation of God which brings to life Christians who have been sleeping and restores a deep sense of God’s presence.” Josiah’s revival started with seeking God, and we, too, can invite renewal by earnestly pursuing Him.
A turning point in Josiah’s story came when the Book of the Law was discovered during temple repairs. Upon hearing its words, Josiah tore his clothes in grief, realizing how far the nation had strayed from God (2 Chronicles 34:19–21). He immediately led the people in repentance and renewed their covenant with the Lord. This shows us the transforming power of God’s Word. As Hebrews 4:12 reminds us, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword.” Christians today are called to read, study, and obey Scripture, allowing it to convict us of sin and guide us into truth.
Josiah’s story also emphasizes the importance of worship. He reinstituted the Passover with great care, ensuring it was celebrated according to God’s instructions (2 Chronicles 35:1–19). This act of worship reminded the people of God’s deliverance and renewed their identity as His covenant people. For believers today, worship is a way to remember God’s faithfulness and respond to His grace. As A.W. Tozer wrote, “Worship is the missing jewel of the evangelical church.” By prioritizing genuine worship, we can draw closer to God and strengthen our faith.
Josiah’s life challenges Christians to take sin seriously, return to the truths of Scripture, and lead others toward revival. His example reminds us that even in a broken world, faithful obedience to God can bring restoration and hope. By seeking God wholeheartedly and living according to His Word, we can experience renewal in our own lives and point others to the transforming power of His grace.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
Josiah’s
Desire to Seek God and Reform Judah
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 34:3 (NIV)
– “In
the eighth year of his reign, while he was still young, he began to
seek the God of his father David. In his twelfth year he began to
purge Judah and Jerusalem of high places, Asherah poles and
idols.”
Comment:
Josiah's desire to seek God began at a young age, and his immediate
response to purge Judah of idols and places of false worship shows
the power of a heart that seeks to honor God. This teaches us that
true revival starts with an individual’s desire to seek God,
regardless of age or circumstances. Josiah’s actions reflect how
important it is to eliminate anything in our lives that distracts us
from true worship and devotion to God.
The
Rediscovery of the Book of the Law
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 34:14-15 (NIV)
– “While
they were bringing out the money that had been taken into the temple
of the Lord, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law of the Lord
that had been given through Moses. Hilkiah said to Shaphan the
secretary, ‘I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the
Lord.’”
Comment:
The rediscovery of God’s Word was a turning point in Josiah’s
reign. The Book of the Law had been lost and forgotten, but when it
was found, it became the catalyst for Josiah’s reforms. This moment
teaches us that God’s Word is powerful and transforming. When we
return to God’s Word, we rediscover the foundation for righteous
living. Josiah’s revival shows the importance of having God’s
Word at the center of spiritual renewal.
Josiah’s
Response to the Law – Repentance and Reform
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 34:19-21 (NIV)
– “When
the king heard the words of the Law, he tore his robes. He gave these
orders to Hilkiah and Ahikam son of Shaphan, Abdon son of Micah,
Shaphan the secretary and Asaiah the king’s attendant: ‘Go and
inquire of the Lord for me and for the remnant in Israel and Judah
about what is written in this book that has been found. Great is the
Lord’s anger that is poured out on us because those who have gone
before us have not kept the word of the Lord; they have not acted in
accordance with all that is written in this book.’”
Comment:
Upon hearing the Law, Josiah’s immediate reaction was to repent,
recognizing the sin of previous generations. His deep sorrow and
willingness to seek the Lord’s guidance for the people reflect the
power of repentance. Josiah teaches us that true revival begins with
acknowledging our sins, feeling godly sorrow, and seeking to align
ourselves with God’s Word. Repentance is the first step in
restoring a right relationship with God.
Josiah’s
Covenant with God
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 34:31 (NIV)
– “The
king stood by his pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of
the Lord—to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes and
decrees with all his heart and all his soul, and to obey the words of
the covenant written in this book.”
Comment:
Josiah made a public commitment to follow God’s commands and lead
the people to do the same. He recognized the importance of not only
hearing God’s Word but acting on it. This teaches us that
repentance involves not just words but actions. Josiah’s commitment
to the covenant reminds us of the importance of renewing our personal
commitment to God and living according to His truth.
The
Impact of Josiah’s Reforms on Judah
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 34:33 (NIV)
– “Josiah
removed all the detestable idols from all the territory belonging to
the Israelites, and he had all who were present in Israel serve the
Lord their God. As long as he lived, they did not fail to follow the
Lord, the God of their ancestors.”
Comment:
Josiah’s reforms brought lasting change to Judah. The people turned
away from idolatry and returned to true worship. Josiah’s
leadership demonstrates the power of godly reform and the impact of
one person’s obedience on a nation. When we stand firm in our faith
and lead others to return to God’s Word, it can bring lasting
change to our communities and families.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
The Rediscovery of the Law Sparked Immediate Revival
You might be surprised by how quickly spiritual renewal took place once the Book of the Law was rediscovered. The people of Judah had not been following God’s commands for years, but the moment Josiah heard the words of the Law, he was deeply convicted and repented, leading to a national revival. This shows the incredible power of God’s Word. When we return to the truth of Scripture, it can immediately spark change in our lives and in the lives of those around us. Even if we have neglected God’s Word for a long time, His Word still has the power to restore, revive, and transform us when we open our hearts to it.
Discussion Questions:
1. How old was Josiah when he became king, and what was his first spiritual decision?
Josiah was only 8 years old when he became king, and at 16, he began to seek God This shows that even young people can make a significant impact for God. How can we encourage and support young believers in their faith journey?
2. What steps did Josiah take to purge idolatry from Judah?
Josiah removed idols, destroyed altars to false gods, and even extended his reforms to parts of the former Northern Kingdom. His actions demonstrate the importance of actively removing sinful influences from our lives. What "idols" might we need to remove from our own lives today?
3. What was discovered during the temple repairs, and how did Josiah respond?
The Book of the Law was found during temple repairs. When Josiah heard its words, he tore his clothes in repentance and sought God's guidance. This highlights the power of God's Word to convict and guide us. How can we cultivate a similar responsiveness to Scripture?
4. How did Josiah lead the people in renewing their covenant with God?
Josiah gathered all the people, read the Book of the Covenant to them, and led them in recommitting to follow God's commands. This shows the importance of corporate commitment to God. How can we encourage one another in our faith commitments?
5. What can we learn from Josiah's celebration of the Passover?
Josiah reinstituted the Passover celebration with great enthusiasm and attention to detail. This demonstrates the importance of remembering God's acts of deliverance and worshiping Him wholeheartedly. How can we bring renewed passion to our worship and celebration of God's work in our lives?
Influence on Life Today:
Josiah's story is especially meaningful for us because it shows the power of rediscovering God's Word. When the Book of the Law was found in the Temple, it changed everything - Josiah tore his robes in sorrow when he realized how far his people had strayed from God's instructions. This reminds us how important it is to regularly read and study our Bibles, not just let them sit on our shelves gathering dust. In our busy modern world, it's easy to neglect God's Word, but like Josiah, we might be surprised at what we've forgotten or never learned. His immediate response to obey what he learned shows us that it's not enough just to know what the Bible says - we need to put it into practice in our daily lives.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 34–35)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Zeal for God’s Word →Demonstrates passionate commitment to discovering, reading, and obeying God’s law. →2 Chronicles 34:14-21
2. Repentance and Reform →Leads active turning away from sin and initiates sweeping spiritual reforms in the community. →2 Chronicles 34:27-33
3. Restoration of Worship →Restores true worship practices by removing idols and renewing the Passover celebration. →2 Chronicles 34:3-7; 35:1-19
4. Humility Before God →Responds to God’s word with a humble heart, acknowledging past failures and seeking God’s mercy. →2 Chronicles 34:27
5. Influence Through Leadership →Uses leadership position to inspire the nation toward holiness and obedience to God’s commands. →2 Chronicles 34:30; 35:1-3
6. Commitment to Covenant Faithfulness →Restores the covenant relationship between God and His people, emphasizing obedience and loyalty. →2 Chronicles 34:31-32
Take-Home Thought:
Looking at God's bigger plan, Josiah's revival shows how God continues to give His people fresh opportunities to return to Him. Even though Judah would soon face exile, God provided this time of renewal and revival through Josiah's leadership. The rediscovery of God's Word in the Temple points forward to how God's truth keeps being rediscovered by each new generation. This pattern continues today - while our Bibles might not be literally lost like in Josiah's time, many people are rediscovering the power and relevance of God's Word in their lives. Just as Josiah's reforms touched every part of society, from worship practices to social justice, God's Word should influence every area of our lives today. The fact that this revival came through such a young king also reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of age, to bring about spiritual renewal in their community.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments that emphasize the transforming power of repentance, the importance of returning to God’s Word, and the blessings of revival:
Psalm
119:105 (NIV)
– “Your
word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Comment:
This verse underscores the importance of God’s Word in guiding our
lives. Just as the rediscovery of the Law brought spiritual light and
clarity to Judah, God’s Word continues to guide and illuminate our
lives today. When we return to God’s Word, we are given clear
direction on how to live according to His will.
Luke
24:45 (NIV)
– “Then
he opened their minds so they could understand the
Scriptures.”
Comment:
In the New Testament, Jesus opened the minds of His disciples to
understand the Scriptures. This is a reminder that, just like Josiah
and the people of Judah, we too need God to open our minds to
understand and apply His Word in our lives. When we seek God and
allow His Word to shape us, it brings understanding and
transformation.
Acts
3:19 (NIV)
– “Repent,
then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times
of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
Comment:
This passage in Acts echoes Josiah’s call for repentance and
returning to God. It emphasizes that repentance is not just about
feeling sorrow for sin but about turning back to God, which brings
spiritual refreshment. Just as Josiah experienced revival through
repentance, we too experience renewal when we repent and turn to God.
Romans
12:2 (NIV)
– “Do
not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the
renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what
God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Comment:
Paul encourages believers to be transformed by the renewing of their
minds through God’s Word. Josiah’s reforms show the power of
renewal through repentance and the Word of God. When we allow God’s
Word to renew our minds, we are better able to understand and live
out His will.
Session
10:
Witness
the Fall: Judah’s Downfall and Exile (2 Chronicles 36)
—
Printable Download
Focus:
The tragic downfall of Judah and the exile to Babylon due to
continued disobedience.
Purpose:
To reflect on the consequences of rejecting God’s calls to
repentance, emphasizing the importance of remaining faithful and
obedient to God in all circumstances, even when facing judgment.
Read: 2 Chronicles 36
Lead-in Question: How does the fall of Judah and the exile to Babylon demonstrate both God's justice and His faithfulness to His promises?
Overview:
2 Chronicles 36 tragically recounts the downfall of Judah, culminating in their exile to Babylon. Following the reforms of Josiah, a series of wicked kings ascended the throne, each leading the nation further away from God. They stubbornly refused to listen to the warnings of God's prophets, continuing to worship idols and engage in sinful practices.
The Bible warns, "But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the Lord arose against his people, till there was no remedy" (2 Chronicles 36:16). Despite numerous warnings and opportunities for repentance, the people of Judah remained defiant, ultimately provoking God's judgment.
The Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar, invaded Judah, capturing Jerusalem and destroying the temple. He exiled the people to Babylon, leaving the land desolate. This period of exile, known as the Babylonian captivity, lasted for 70 years. As the prophet Jeremiah lamented, "Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that this city shall be a heap of stones" (Jeremiah 9:11).
This tragic period serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of remaining faithful to God. As the theologian, John Calvin, observed, "God's patience should not be mistaken for indifference. He will not forever tolerate the rebellion of His people."
However, 2 Chronicles 36 concludes with a glimmer of hope. The Lord, in His mercy, fulfilled the prophecies of Jeremiah and allowed the exiled people to return to their homeland after 70 years. This period of exile, though painful, ultimately led to spiritual renewal and a deeper understanding of God's grace.
Think About This:
The final chapter of 2 Chronicles recounts Judah’s tragic downfall and exile to Babylon, marking the end of an era for God’s people. This account serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of persistent sin and the justice of God. Yet even amid judgment, it also highlights God’s faithfulness to His promises and His plan for restoration. For Christians today, this story challenges us to take sin seriously, trust in God’s sovereignty, and find hope in His redemptive purposes.
Judah’s downfall was not sudden. For generations, the people ignored God’s warnings through the prophets and followed their own desires. 2 Chronicles 36:15–16 explains, “The Lord, the God of their ancestors, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people… But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words, and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused.” The exile was a direct result of their repeated rebellion and rejection of God’s commands. As Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe observed, “God’s long-suffering is amazing, but when it ends, it ends.” This challenges us to listen to God’s Word, repent of sin, and walk in obedience before it’s too late.
Despite the severity of Judah’s punishment, God’s sovereignty and mercy shine through. The Babylonian exile fulfilled God’s earlier warnings and demonstrated that He is always faithful to His Word. As theologian R.C. Sproul said, “God’s justice is perfect. He never punishes unjustly, nor does He fail to keep His promises of restoration for those who turn back to Him.” Even in judgment, God’s plan for redemption was at work, preparing for the return of His people and the ultimate coming of Christ.
For Christians today, Judah’s exile serves as a cautionary tale but also a source of hope. It reminds us that sin carries consequences, but God is always working to bring restoration. As Paul wrote in Romans 15:4, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide, we might have hope.” Just as Judah’s exile pointed toward the coming Messiah, our trials remind us to trust in Jesus, who redeems us from sin and offers eternal hope.
In reflecting on Judah’s fall, believers are encouraged to examine their own hearts. Are there areas where we’ve ignored God’s warnings or strayed from His ways? The story of 2 Chronicles 36 calls us to repentance, trust in God’s faithfulness, and live with the assurance that He can bring restoration even from the darkest moments.
MAIN STUDY POINTS
The
Kings of Judah Led the People Into Sin
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 36:5 (NIV)
– “Jehoiakim
was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in
Jerusalem eleven years. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord his
God.”
Comment:
The kings of Judah, especially Jehoiakim, led the people into sin.
They disregarded God’s commands, and their actions influenced the
nation as a whole. This teaches us that leaders have a significant
impact on the spiritual direction of their people. It’s a reminder
of the responsibility leaders bear to lead with integrity and
faithfulness to God’s Word. When leaders stray from God, they often
lead others astray.
God’s
Repeated Calls to Repentance
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 36:15-16 (NIV)
– “The
Lord, the God of their ancestors, sent word to them through his
messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on
his dwelling place. But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his
words and scoffed at his prophets. Until the wrath of the Lord was
aroused against his people and there was no remedy.”
Comment:
Despite God’s repeated calls to repentance through His prophets,
the people of Judah rejected His messages. They mocked and scoffed at
God’s warnings, which eventually led to God’s judgment. This is a
sobering reminder that God’s patience is great, but there comes a
point when judgment is unavoidable. It shows the importance of
responding to God’s calls to repentance while there is still time.
Ignoring or rejecting God’s voice can lead to devastating
consequences.
The
Consequences of Disobedience and Rejection of God
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 36:17 (NIV)
– “He
brought up against them the king of the Babylonians, who killed their
young men with the sword in the sanctuary, and did not spare young
man or young woman, elderly or infirm. God gave them all into the
hands of Nebuchadnezzar.”
Comment:
The consequences of Judah’s sin were severe. God allowed the
Babylonians to conquer Judah and destroy the temple, as well as take
the people into exile. This teaches us that there are serious
consequences for rejecting God’s Word and living in sin. While God
is merciful, He is also just. Sin has a cost, and disobedience can
lead to destruction, both personally and collectively.
The
Destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 36:19 (NIV)
– “They
set fire to God’s temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they
burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value
there.”
Comment:
The destruction of the temple and the walls of Jerusalem symbolizes
the complete collapse of Judah’s spiritual and physical identity.
The temple, which had once been the dwelling place of God’s
presence, was burned to the ground. This shows how devastating the
effects of sin and rebellion against God can be. It also highlights
the importance of valuing and protecting our relationship with God,
as it is central to our identity as His people.
The
Exile as God’s Discipline, Not Final Rejection
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 36:21 (NIV)
– “The
land enjoyed its sabbath rests; all the time of its desolation it
rested, until the seventy years were completed in fulfillment of the
word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah.”
Comment:
While Judah’s exile was a consequence of their disobedience, it
also served as a time of discipline, fulfilling God’s promise
through Jeremiah. The land needed to rest, and the people needed to
reflect and repent. Even in judgment, God’s ultimate purpose is
restoration. This teaches us that God’s discipline is never without
purpose. Even when we face consequences for our actions, God’s
ultimate goal is to restore us to Himself.
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
God’s Discipline is Part of His Loving Plan for Restoration
It may surprise you to learn that God’s judgment on Judah wasn’t just punishment for punishment’s sake—it was a part of His loving plan to bring His people back to Himself. Though the exile was a time of great sorrow, it was also a time for God to purify His people and give them a chance to reflect on their disobedience. The land itself rested during the seventy years of exile, fulfilling the sabbath years that had been neglected. This shows that even in times of judgment, God’s desire is not to destroy us but to restore us. He disciplines us because He loves us and wants us to return to Him, just as a parent disciplines a child to guide them to maturity.
Discussion Questions:
1. Why did God allow Judah to be conquered and exiled?
God allowed Judah's downfall because of the persistent unfaithfulness of the people and their leaders. Despite repeated warnings from prophets, they continued to mock God's messengers and despise His words. This reminds us that while God is patient, He does hold us accountable for our actions. How can we cultivate a heart that is responsive to God's warnings in our own lives?
2. How did the different kings of Judah contribute to the nation's downfall?
The kings after Josiah, such as Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah, all did evil in God's sight. Their poor leadership and disobedience to God led the nation further into sin. This highlights the importance of godly leadership. How can we pray for and support our leaders to make wise, God-honoring decisions?
3. What does the destruction of the temple teach us about the consequences of sin?
The Babylonians destroyed the temple, which was the center of Jewish worship and the symbol of God's presence. This shocking event shows the severe consequences of turning away from God. It reminds us that sin can lead to the loss of what we hold most precious. How can this motivate us to take sin seriously in our own lives?
4. How does the 70-year exile fulfill Jeremiah's prophecy, and what does this teach us about God?
The 70-year exile fulfilled Jeremiah's prophecy, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His word, even in judgment. This shows that God is sovereign over history and that His promises, both of judgment and restoration, are trustworthy. How does this encourage us to trust God's promises in our own lives?
5. What hope does Cyrus's decree offer at the end of the chapter?
Cyrus's decree allowing the Jews to return and rebuild the temple shows that God had not abandoned His people, even in exile. This reminds us that God's plans for restoration often extend beyond our current circumstances. How can we maintain hope in difficult times, trusting in God's ultimate plan for redemption?
Influence on Life Today:
The fall of Judah and the exile to Babylon described in 2 Chronicles 36 offer important lessons for us today. This chapter reminds us that persistent disobedience to God and rejection of His guidance can have severe consequences, even for those who consider themselves God's people. In our modern society, where moral relativism is common, we must remember that God's standards haven't changed. Just as God repeatedly warned Judah through prophets, He speaks to us today through His Word and through godly counsel. We should take these warnings seriously and be quick to repent when we recognize sin in our lives.
The chapter also highlights the importance of godly leadership. The poor choices of Judah's kings contributed significantly to the nation's downfall. This underscores our responsibility to pray for our leaders and to support those who demonstrate godly wisdom. Additionally, we should strive to be positive influences in our own spheres of influence, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities.
SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- ( 2 Chronicles 36)
Trait →Description →Scripture Reference
1. Consequences of Persistent Disobedience →Recognizes that continual rebellion against God leads to judgment and loss of blessing. →2 Chronicles 36:15-17
2. God’s Patience and Longsuffering →Understands God’s mercy in delaying judgment, giving time for repentance. →2 Chronicles 36:15
3. Responsibility of Leadership →Holds leaders accountable for guiding people according to God’s laws and warning them of consequences. →2 Chronicles 36:12-13
4. Importance of Repentance →Highlights the need to repent before destruction comes. →2 Chronicles 36:16
5. Sovereignty of God Over Nations →Acknowledges that God controls the rise and fall of kingdoms according to His purpose. →2 Chronicles 36:17, 23
6. Hope in Restoration →Points forward to God’s future restoration and mercy even after judgment. →2 Chronicles 36:22-23
Take-Home Thought:
While 2 Chronicles 36 describes a dark period in Israel's history, it also reveals important aspects of God's character and His larger plan. Despite the people's persistent unfaithfulness, God demonstrated remarkable patience, giving them multiple opportunities to repent. This reminds us of God's deep love and desire for reconciliation with His people, even when they stray far from Him.
Furthermore, the chapter ends on a note of hope with Cyrus's decree allowing the Jews to return home. This fulfillment of prophecy demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises and His sovereignty over history. Even in judgment, God was working towards restoration. This points to the bigger picture of God's redemptive plan, which ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Just as God provided a way for His people to return from exile, He has provided a way through Christ for all people to be reconciled to Him. This reminds us that no matter how dire our circumstances may seem, God is always working towards redemption and restoration for those who turn to Him.
CROSS-REFERENCE
Here are a few scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments that emphasize the consequences of disobedience, God’s call to repentance, and the ultimate purpose of restoration:
Deuteronomy
28:15 (NIV)
– “However,
if you do not obey the Lord your God and do not carefully follow all
his commands and decrees I am giving you today, all these curses will
come on you and overtake you.”
Comment:
This is a reminder from the Old Testament that disobedience to God’s
commands brings curses and consequences. God’s Word is clear that
when we reject His ways, there will be consequences. Judah’s
downfall in 2 Chronicles 36 is a fulfillment of the curses listed in
Deuteronomy 28.
Hebrews
12:6 (NIV)
– “The
Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he
accepts as his son.”
Comment:
In the New Testament, we learn that God’s discipline is an act of
love. Just as He disciplined Judah through the exile, He disciplines
us when we stray from His path. The purpose of this discipline is not
to destroy but to restore us to fellowship with Him.
2
Peter 3:9 (NIV)
– “The
Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness.
Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but
everyone to come to repentance.”
Comment:
This verse emphasizes God’s patience in calling us to repentance.
Just as He was patient with Judah, sending prophets again and again,
He is patient with us today. His desire is for all to repent and be
restored to Him. The exile shows the tragic consequences of ignoring
God’s call, but God’s ultimate desire is for us to return to Him
and experience His mercy.
Romans
6:23 (NIV)
– “For
the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in
Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Comment:
This verse reminds us that the consequence of sin is death, just as
Judah faced destruction and exile for their sins. However, God offers
the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, which is a way out of
the judgment that sin brings. Even in the face of judgment, God’s
mercy and grace are available to those who repent and turn to Him.
The Book of 2 Chronicles provides a spiritual account of Judah's history, focusing on the reign of Solomon and subsequent kings until the Babylonian exile. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God and the centrality of the temple in Jerusalem, as exemplified in 2 Chronicles 16:9: "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him". The chronicler's narrative serves as a reminder of God's enduring covenant with David's line, highlighting both the blessings of obedience and the consequences of straying from God's path.
1. Crown the King: Solomon’s Rise to Leadership (2 Chronicles 1–2)
2. Build the House of the Lord: Solomon’s Temple Construction ( 2 Chronicles 3–5)
3. Witness God’s Glory: The Temple Dedication ( 2 Chronicles 6–7)
4. Expand the Kingdom: Solomon’s Wealth and Wisdom ( 2 Chronicles 8–9)
5. Divide and Decline: Rehoboam and the Split Kingdom ( 2 Chronicles 10–12)
6. Return to the Lord: The Reforms of Asa and Jehoshaphat ( 2 Chronicles 13–20)
7. Turn Away from Evil: Wicked Kings and Their Downfall ( 2 Chronicles 21–24)
8. Stand Firm in Faith: The Righteousness of Hezekiah ( 2 Chronicles 29–32)
9. Repent and Restore: Josiah’s Revival and Rediscovery of the Law ( 2 Chronicles 34–35)
10. Witness the Fall: Judah’s Downfall and Exile ( 2 Chronicles 36)
The Book of 2 Chronicles offers a unique perspective on Israel's history, focusing on the spiritual journey of the Southern Kingdom of Judah from the reign of Solomon to the Babylonian exile. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of spiritual renewal, making it particularly relevant for Christians today.
2 Chronicles emphasizes the significance of the Davidic monarchy in God's plan for redemption. As T. Desmond Alexander notes, "For the author of Chronicles, the Davidic monarchy is central to God's plan of redemption for the entire world". This perspective encourages modern believers to see how God's promises in the Old Testament connect to His ongoing work in the world today.
The chronicler's account highlights the blessings that come from obedience to God and the consequences of straying from His path. This theme is encapsulated in 2 Chronicles 16:9, which states, "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him". This verse reminds us that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, seeking to support those who remain faithful.
For contemporary Christians, especially those in their senior years, the study of 2 Chronicles offers valuable lessons on spiritual perseverance and the importance of passing on faith to future generations. As John MacArthur explains, the book was "intended to remind the Jews of God's promises and intentions". Similarly, today's believers can find encouragement in God's unchanging nature and His continued faithfulness throughout history.
When approaching the Old Testament, it's crucial to recognize its relevance to our faith today. Paul's application of Old Testament principles in 2 Corinthians 8:13-15 demonstrates how we can draw wisdom from these ancient texts. As we study 2 Chronicles, we should seek to understand the historical context while also discerning timeless truths that apply to our lives and communities.