Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 19

2 Chronicles 19

 

-The LORD allowed Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, to return in safety to his house in Jerusalem after his mishap with the Arameans in alliance with Ahab. Upon his return the seer Jehu, son of Hanani, went out to meet him with a word, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD and so bring wrath on yourself from the LORD (2 Chronicles 19:1-2)?” However, all the things he said were not negative, “But there is some good in you, for you have removed the Asheroth (female idol) from the land and you have set your heart to seek God (2 Chronicles 19:3).” So Jehoshaphat went about regaining his standing in the sight of the people in peace with the LORD and doing His will. He went among the people from Beersheba to the hill country in Ephraim to bring them back to the LORD, the God of their fathers (2 Chronicles 19:4).

-The primary way that he accomplished this revival in the land was through the establishment of righteous judges, which he trained and appointed throughout the land in the fortified cities (2 Chronicles 19:5). His instruction to these judges consisted of the following:

+Consider what you are doing

+You judge for the LORD, not for man when you render judgment

+Let the fear of the LORD by upon you in decision making

+Be very careful in what you do

+God takes no part in unrighteousness

+God takes no part in partiality

+God takes no part in taking bribes, extortion

+Be faithful in your work

+Be wholehearted in your work

+Warn the people of their wrongdoing and the guilt they will incur so they will not be guilty before the LORD

+Act resolutely (possessing determination and purposefulness, decisive)

+The LORD is with the upright

(2 Chronicles 19:6-11)

-*Application* This instruction would be essential for our present day judicial system if we wanted to have awakening and revival in our nation of America. A just society must have just leadership and decision makers that exude fairness and equity under the law of God, which transcends every nation and all cultures. We need to pray for a returning to these types of biblical standards in our land’s rulers. Else, our guilt and God’s wrath will be upon us. I’d prefer His blessing upon us instead. Wouldn’t you?

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 19:7

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 18

2 Chronicles 18

 

-Jehoshaphat makes alliances with the evil king of Israel, Ahab, even though the LORD had blessed him with riches and honor in establishing him as the authority in the Judean region. These alliances came with marriage ties between the families and a sense of camaraderie as Israel’s descendents (2 Chronicles 18:1-3). The king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat to ally in an invasion of Ramoth-gilead across the Jordan to the east, and Jehoshaphat eventually went along with the plan. The interchange in making that decision is what is interesting about this text.

-Jehoshaphat recognized the importance of inquiring of the LORD first before going into a major battle with the enemy. Ahab assembled four hundred false prophets who put on a fantastic and popular positive “show” for the two kings arrayed into their pomp and circumstance at the gate of Samaria at the threshing floor (2 Chronicles 18:4-11). Jehoshaphat had discernment from the Holy Spirit and inquired if there was a real prophet of the LORD from which they may get the truth (2 Chronicles 18:6). Ahab did not like the real prophet of God, Micaiah, son of Imla, because he never prophesied in favor of the king of Israel. Nonetheless, Jehoshaphat insisted on hearing from this prophet, and he was summoned. At first Micaiah tells them what they want to hear, but it is probably done very sarcastically, which makes the king seek the real truth. Micaiah will speak only what God says in the end and prophesies doom over the king of Israel. He describes a heavenly scene where the heavenly hosts are summoned by God to entice Ahab with a deceiving spirit through the false prophets (2 Chronicles 18:12-22). At the hearing of this Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah, who was the premier outspoken false prophet, came near and struck Micaiah on the cheek calling him a fake. Micaiah was whisked away to prison as a result of speaking the real Word of God where he was to be fed sparingly with bread and water until the king of Israel’s safe return. However, Micaiah stood his righteous ground and was undeterred by the punishments he received (2 Chronicles 18:23-27).

-Ahab had devised a strategy more than likely intended to get Jehoshaphat assassinated and he victorious in the battle. He would disguise himself in armor as a normal soldier; while the Arameans would chase after what they thought was the king of Israel. When Jehoshaphat cried out, the LORD helped him and God diverted the enemy from chasing him as they had planned. They realized they were tricked by Ahab and turned back to the battle to fight. This is where Ahab was randomly struck in the joint of the armor severely wounded. He died that evening at sunset as the day of battle raged (2 Chronicles 18:28-34).

-*Application* No matter what the circumstances might look like the real prophets of God will always prevail with the genuine truth of the matter. Is our theology based on a diluted prosperity through deception, or is it based solely on the truth of God’s Word? God has His ways of striking down the wicked and lifting up the righteous, so make sure you are in the camp of the blameless. Don’t be deceived, it is easier than you might think to fall into the lies of the enemy and capitulate. Stand your ground in the truth and don’t be swayed even if it costs you your reputation and temporary pleasure. Be the real deal no matter what comes your way! God will eventually fight for you!

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 18:13

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 17

2 Chronicles 17

 

-Jehoshaphat now succeeds his father’s reign in Judah with authority, blessing, and honor because he “followed the example of his father David’s earlier days and did not seek the Baals (2 Chronicles 17:1-3). Although he would have some issues with intermarrying with Ahab’s family in Israel and foolishly building unholy alliances thus polluting and not completely destroying the idolatry in the land, he is depicted in this chapter as a bold follower of God during his early years. He had many military victories and successes in fortifying the nation and received great tribute from his people and former enemies of the Jewish people (2 Chronicles 17:4-6, 10-12). The dread of the LORD was upon all the kingdoms of the lands around Judah, and they dared not make war against Jehoshaphat’s people. The king took this opportunity to educate the people of the land in the ways of the LORD. He had many scholars and officials sent out into every city to teach the book of the Law of the LORD with them. They were among the people and provided information on how to please God and live in a worthy manner (2 Chronicles 17:7-9). This was a time of wonderful blessings in the land, and the people served their king with warmth and gratitude as he fortified every area with valiant men (2 Chronicles 17:1-2, 13-19).

-*Application* When we strive to do the things of God we will also have peace in every situation and our position will be fortified. Even our enemies will be at peace with us when we trust in the LORD and keep growing in the knowledge and understanding of him. Also, when we know the truth, it is our responsibility to train and educate others in the way of Light through Jesus Christ our Savior. Don’t keep the best thing ever hidden. Be a city set on a hill for all to see your good works and give glory to your eternal King (Matthew 5:14-16). Expand His Kingdom!

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 17:3

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 16

2 Chronicles 16

 

-The last five years of Asa’s reign were bitter times for an otherwise righteous rule over the land of Judah. The falling away began when Baasha, king of Israel, came up against the prosperous Southern Kingdom with a blockade in Ramah to stop the flow of people in the North going in and out to the king of Judah (2 Chronicles 16:1). Instead of seeking the LORD, like he did with the Ethiopian invasion (2 Chronicles 16:8-15), Asa went straight to an old ally of his father in Aram, to the north and east of the Israel, and struck a deal to divert the attention of Israel. While the plan worked, the LORD was not pleased with his reliance on Ben-hadad, the king of Aram, and sent Hanani the seer to give a correcting word to Asa with the fact that now the pagan nation had escaped out of their hand (2 Chronicles 16:2-7). Judah had not trusted completely in the LORD for their salvation and deliverance as they had when they were outnumbered by the Ethiopians. The word of the LORD was that His eyes “move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His.” In this matter Asa had acted foolishly and now he would face constant turbulence in his kingdom (2 Chronicles 16:8-9). This angered the king, and instead of turning in repentance, he put the seer in prison, enraged at his audacity. Asa began to oppress some of the people at this time and his rule began a five year decline in which he became more and more bitter and leaned on other influences rather than the LORD. He became diseased in his feet in his 39^th year and looked to the physicians more than his God for healing in the severity of it. He thus passed on into eternity weakened and faltering from his once honored position (2 Chronicles 16:10-14).

-*Application* The LORD wants all of our reliance to be on Him in every area of our lives. In His omniscience He looks to and fro all over the earth to support, strengthen, bless, and honor those whose hearts are completely surrendered to His leading, sustaining, and provision. This is what true faith is all about, depending on the LORD for every aspect of our existence. Without faith, it becomes impossible to please Him (Hebrews 11:6). Realize this in your life and seek out His counsel above all else in every decision. Also, endure in it. Asa is a great example of a strong start, but a weak finish, much like his great grandfather Solomon. God expects us to finish strong and complete our course with Him persevering in all things with Him (1 Corinthians 9:24-27, 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Hebrews 12:1-2). Be strong in the LORD and in the power of His might (Ephesians 6:10).

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 9:16

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 15

2 Chronicles 15

 

-The Spirit of God came upon the prophet Azariah to pronounce His word over the situation in Judah and Benjamin. “The LORD is with you when you are with Him (faith statement). And if you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you (in the blessing sense). For many days Israel was without the true God and without a teaching priest and without law. But, in their distress they turned to the LORD God of Israel, and they sought Him, and He let them find Him (Jeremiah 29:13, Matthew 7:7-8). In those times there was no peace to him who went out or to him who came in, for many disturbances afflicted all the inhabitants of the lands. Nation was crushed by nation, and city by city, for God troubled them with every kind of distress. But you (Asa and all people of God), be strong and do not lose courage, for there is reward for your work (2 Chronicles 15:1-7).” Asa’s response to this message emboldened him to remove all the abominable idols from all the land of Judah and Benjamin and from the cities he had captured in the hill country of Ephraim (2 Chronicles 15:8). He restored the alter in front of the porch of the LORD in Jerusalem, and many of the inhabitants from the Northern Kingdom (from Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon) defected to Judah when they saw that the LORD was with them (2 Chronicles 15:9-10). They sacrificed to the LORD together in unity and entered a covenant to seek the LORD God of their fathers with all their heart and soul (2 Chronicles 15:11-12). Whoever would not seek God was abolished by death, and they made an oath to the LORD their God with loud shouting and voice with trumpets and horns and with rejoicing whole heartedness and earnestness (2 Chronicles 15:13-15). With this, the LORD gave them rest again on every side and prosperity as even the Queen Mother, Maacah, mother of Asa was released from her position of authority because she had made a horrid image as an Asherah. This image was cut down by her son Asa, crushed, and thrown into the Kidron Valley brook just outside and down the mountain from Jerusalem. Although there was still idolatry to the north in Israel and their high places remained in the Promised Land, Asa’s heart was blameless all his days in Judah, and there was no more war until the 35^th year of his reign (2 Chronicles 15:16-19).

-*Application* What does it mean to have God with you? This is significant in this chapter and a major theme throughout Scripture. What we are talking about is Emmanuel, or in other words, His abiding presence upon us and with the New Covenant IN us through the work of Jesus Christ and His sent Holy Spirit. God wants to master us and bless us in this relationship, but He doesn’t ever force it upon us. He lets us choose the degree of fellowship in our walk with Him. Again as we see in this chapter it all boils down to an issue of the heart (2 Chronicles 15:12, 17). Allow your heart to be completely His and He will certainly be with you. Forsake Him, and you will bear the consequences of a rebellious heart and soul.

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 15:2, 4, 7

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 14

2 Chronicles 14

 

-Asa, the son of Abijah, now becomes the king of Judah and does good and right in the sight of the All-seeing LORD his God (2 Chronicles 14:1-2). He removed the foreign altars and high places that the idolaters burned incense on in all the cities of Judah. He tore down the sacred pagan pillars and cut down the Asherim (a wooden symbol of a female false deity). He commanded and upheld the rule of faith in Judah to worship and seek the LORD God of Israel, Issac, and Abraham to observe and adhere to the Law and the commandment (2 Chronicles 14:3-5a). Therefore, the LORD gave them peace with no foreign disturbances of war for ten full years. In that time, the nation was able to build up the army to well over a half-million valiant warriors in Judah and Benjamin, and the cities were fortified with walls, towers, gates, and bars. This all happened because they sought the LORD, and He gave them rest on every side along with prosperity (2 Chronicles 14:5b-8).

-After ten years of perpetual peace, rest, and prosperity the Ethiopian army of Zerah came out against them from the south with a million men and 300 chariots (2 Chronicles 14:9). They drew up battle formation in the valley of Zephathah at Mareshah (south and west of Jerusalem). This is where once again Asa, a man of God, prayed to the LORD and called out to Him, “LORD, there is no one beside You to help in the battle between the powerful and those who have no strength; so help us, O LORD our God, for we trust in You, and in Your Name have come against this multitude. O LORD, You are our God; let not man prevail against You (2 Chronicles 14:10-11).” So the LORD routed the Ethiopians before Asa and before Judah, and the Ethiopians fled back to Gerar with so many of them falling that they could not recover as Judah pursued. The Ethiopians were shattered before the LORD, and His dread fell on all those in that region. Judah captured much plunder and spoils from the campaign, and then they returned triumphantly to Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 14:12-15).

-*Application* Our obvious lesson to learn from this narrative is that the LORD fights for His obedient and faithful people. He gives them peace and rest with prosperity at times, sometimes even extended times. He also will necessarily bring conflict with the chance to call upon Him in our distress for deliverance in amazing-supernatural ways. This is our God and we should call upon Him in all the seasons of our lives for His protection, blessings, and honor. Let no other god come before Him, and you will enjoy His continued presence and fellowship in your life. No matter what the circumstance, learn to trust in Him!

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 14:2, 11

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 13

2 Chronicles 13

 

-The chronicler paints only the positive in the brief reign of Abijah, king of Judah and great grandson of David. In an otherwise wicked rule with much sin (1 Kings 15:3), this chapter points out the stand that he took against the idolatry and rebellion of the Northern Kingdom of Israel (2 Chronicles 13:6, 8-9). War between the nations brought out immense numbers of warriors where the Northern Tribes had double the men, but God was with Judah as His covenant people (2 Chronicles 13:2-5). In Abijah’s speech on Mount Zemaraim he extolled the LORD and His worship done properly by His Word, and he warned the Northern Kingdom not to fight against the LORD God of their fathers (2 Chronicles 13:10-12). His point was that Judah was keeping the charge of the LORD their God, but the Northern Tribes had forsaken Him (2 Chronicles 13:11b). Jeroboam and his troops tried a sneak attack ambush from the rear of the formation to gain a two-front advantage with their superior numbers, but the army of Judah cried out to God for deliverance and He gave them an incredible victory (2 Chronicles 13:13-16). It turned out to be a great slaughter of a half-million chosen men of Israel slain because the sons of Judah “trusted in the LORD, the God of their fathers (2 Chronicles 13:17-18).” Several cities with their villages were captured at this time by Abijah’s army, and Jeroboam never regain his strength in the days of Abijah (2 Chronicles 13:19-20a). The LORD eventually struck the sinful Jeroboam and he died, while God allowed Abijah to become powerful with many family members (2 Chronicles 13:20b-22).

-*Application* It is important for us to always trust in the LORD and cry out to Him in all our distress when things seem to be totally against us. Maintain His ways. He is full of grace and mercy seeking to bless those truly committed to His desires and plans in the fear of Him (Psalms 103:8-11). He will overlook everything evil we have done if we turn to Him with a pure heart and trust in Him. This is an important biblical concept to remember for us. When our heart condemns us, we know that God is greater than our heart if we have His Spirit within us (1 John 3:19-24).

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 13:18

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 12

2 Chronicles 12

 

-Rehoboam inexplicitly forsakes the law of the LORD, which had been so good to his father and grandfather, a few years into his reign when he was established and strong (in his own eyes, not God’s). The LORD stirred up and sent Shishak king of Egypt with men too numerous to count against the fortified cities of Judah and came as far as Jerusalem when there came a repentant turning to the LORD by the king and his princes of Israel. Shemaiah the prophet was instrumental in bringing the word of the LORD, which was, “You have forsaken Me, so I also have forsaken you to Shishak (2 Chronicles 12:1-5).” At this point, in desperation and facing annihilation, they humbled themselves before the LORD declaring Him righteous (2 Chronicles 12:6). When the LORD saw that they had humbled themselves, He sent word again to the prophet that He would not destroy them but grant them some measure of deliverance from His wrath, which was by means of the Egyptians (2 Chronicles 12:7).

-However, the children of Israel did become Shishak’s slaves for the purpose of discipline by the LORD. This was done so that they would learn the difference between the LORD’s service and the kingdoms of the countries (2 Chronicles 12:8). *Application* Hebrews 12, the LORD always chastises those whom He loves with a corrective purpose. We need to realize His righteousness and His rule is always for our best well-being. God is not trying to sap our blessing and joy. He instead wants to multiply it. It’s sad how we often forsake His law ourselves when we feel strong and established. This can have to do with ease, rebellion, self-sufficiency, complacency, apathy, pride, and a host of other things contrary to the Word of God. The most dangerous time for us can be when we forget about the goodness of God and His provision in our sustenance and stability. Always rely on Him and depend on His strength, not your own. This is the lesson from this king and this time in Israel’s history.

-What was left was a hollow reminder of the riches of David and Solomon. The gold turned to bronze, as with the shields and armor. While conditions returned to good in the land of Judah, it was never the same as it had been. Rehoboam successfully reigned in Jerusalem for seventeen years after he learned his lessons and humbled himself before God. Nevertheless, his lasting legacy read like this, “He did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the LORD (2 Chronicles 12:9-14).” He slept with his fathers in the city of David and Abijah became king in his place in Judah as a descendant of David (2 Chronicles 12:16). *Application* To leave a lasting legacy of righteousness and goodness seek the LORD with a whole heart (2 Chronicles 16:9). This becomes a major overriding theme of the Scripture, and it should be indicative of our lives before Him. It’s all about the heart. Is yours for God or other things? Humble yourself before Him that He might exalt you (1 Peter 5:5-6).

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 12:2

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 11

2 Chronicles 11

 

-Chapter eleven begins with the heeding of the prophetic warning of Shemaiah, the man of God, to Rehoboam and Judah  NOT to go up against the Northern Kingdom and their relatives in war. Thankfully, the kingdom listened to the words of the LORD and temporary peace ensued (2 Chronicles 11:1-4). After this, the king built cities of defense in Judah and strengthened the nation in the event that there may be attacks and future war. Benjamin and Judah remained loyal to the royal line of David, as well as all the priests and Levites, and stood with Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:12-13). We find that Jeroboam, in the Northern Kingdom, had excluded them from serving as he unrighteously set up his own priestly system in his own high places for the satyrs and for the calves of idolatry, which he had made (2 Chronicles 11:14-15). “Those from all the tribes of Israel who set their hearts on seeking the LORD God of Israel followed them (the priests and Levites) to Jerusalem, to sacrifice to the LORD God of their fathers (2 Chronicles 11:16).” These people strengthened the kingdom of Judah, as you can imagine, and lent their full support for three years (2 Chronicles 11:17, we will see why support waned in the next chapter as Rehoboam forsakes the law of the LORD, 2 Chronicles 12:1-2).

-The rest of the chapter delineates Rehoboam’s choice in wives and his intention to make a grandson of Absalom king after his departure. This son was named Abijah, and he was the son of Rehoboam’s favorite wife, Maacah (2 Chronicles 11:21-22). Rehoboam acted wisely in strengthening the family with his provision for food and stability in fortifications during this time (2 Chronicles 11:23).

-*Application* It is always a sign of wisdom when we heed the word of the LORD. This will keep us from danger and disaster in our lives. While Rehoboam, was not perfect, at this time he did turn to the LORD rather than his own pride in matters as we see here in this chapter. Because of that, God blessed him and his fractured kingdom with the loyalty of the priests, his own family, the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, and the true worshipers of Yahweh. This is so important in the economy of God. Whereas Jeroboam went his own way in anger and frustration and pride, Judah remained somewhat faithful to the promise, and God blessed that. He will bless your life too when you seek after Him and His righteousness. Obey the Word of the LORD and follow Him wherever He takes you.

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 11:4, 14

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 10

2 Chronicles 10

 

-This narrative describes what happened to divide the Kingdom of Israel after the death of Solomon. Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, basically shunned the advice of his elders who had served in his father’s reign for the advice of his peers that he had grown up with serving him as the king’s son. The elders took a pacifistic position of tolerance and kindness to the people’s request, while the young guns took a position of hard rule and a heavy yoke (or burden) upon the populace. With this prospect, the northern tribes abandoned the line of David and declared Jeroboam their king, who had come back from an exile in Egypt where he had fled the presence of King Solomon. This separated the children of Israel and the prophetic word of Ahijah the Shilonite was fulfilled (2 Chronicles 10:1-19). The house remained divided until 722 B.C. when the Northern Kingdom was taken away captive to Assyria and lost forever. David’s line continued, as promised (2 Samuel 7), in Judah, and Christ Jesus eventually sprang up from this lineage (Matthew 1, Luke 3:23-38).

-*Application* It is important to listen to wise and Godly counsel. Usually, this means listening to those of experience and who are older than yourself. Is there a difficult decision you are considering today? If so, consult the elders and receive wisdom. Be careful of peers’ influence and perspective. It may very well be tainted and completely bad advice.

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 10:13

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 9

2 Chronicles 9

 

-This chapter describes the famous visitation of the Queen of Sheba to Jerusalem to visit King Solomon and test him with difficult questions and relay all to him that was on her heart (2 Chronicles 9:1). She had an entourage, which brought spices, gold, and precious stones in large quantities. These gifts were given to the king for goodwill and thanksgiving as he answered all her questions and gave detailed explanation with keen wisdom as to the gift God had given him. When the queen saw all that the LORD had blessed Israel and King Solomon with, she declared the report she had heard was completely true and that the kingdom even surpassed her expectations two-fold. She blessed the LORD God of Heaven, and the two forged a strong friendship through trade (2 Chronicles 9:2-12).

-The rest of the chapter depicts Solomon’s opulence during the course of his reign with specific details. It defines the borders of his earthly kingdom and his influence over the kings of the earth to the wisdom of God put into his heart. This chapter concludes his time on earth with 40 years of reigning in Jerusalem over all of Israel. His death and burial in the city of his father David preceded the divided reign of Rehoboam, his son (2 Chronicles 9:13-31).

-*Application* When we are known to have a lot of anything it will garner attention from the outside world. Solomon’s wisdom and reputation was far reaching, and all he did and had were impressive. When we have Christ as our Savior, and He showers us with His giftings and abilities, others will take notice. Use the favor of God in your life to share His greatness. Expand His Kingdom by exalting the Ultimate King, King Jesus!

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 9:1-2, 5

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 8

2 Chronicles 8

 

-This chapter looks at some of the progress in fortifying the nation of Israel for safety and strength under the leadership of Solomon. Cities were built, settlements attained, enemies were subdued and captured, and reinforcements were established in various regions of the national Promised Land. The foreigners who were left were made forced laborers, and the men of war were all Hebrews, 250 who ruled over the people (2 Chronicles 8:1-10).

-Another development was written about concerning Solomon’s wife, who was the daughter of Pharaoh in Egypt. Solomon built her a house since she was Gentile and he knew that she could not dwell in the holy places of the City of David and where the Ark resided (2 Chronicles 8:11). This was a significant turning point we see in other texts regarding Solomon’s affection for foreign women and eventually lead him away from whole-hearted devotion to the LORD (1 Kings 11:1-13, Nehemiah 13:26).

-However, the Chronicles, again painting a positive history on the national legacy focuses back on the service in the completed Temple for the 20 years following and the wealth that was being amassed (2 Chronicles 8:12-18).

-*Application* No matter how careful we are in other areas of our spiritual walk with the LORD, we can falter in a key area, like lust or sexual immorality, and slide away from God’s ideal plan and destiny for our lives. The Bible warns us to guard our heart, for it is the well-spring of life (Proverbs 4:23). It is interesting that Solomon himself wrote this verse, yet did not abide by it in the end. Follow God with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding for complete dependence and an abiding discipleship (Proverbs 3:5-6). When you encounter temptation or evil, resist it and flee from it with complete devotion to the LORD’s will.

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 8:16

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 7

2 Chronicles 7

 

-We observe the Shekinah Glory coming down upon the Temple in this very significant chapter of Scripture. When Solomon finished his beautiful prayer in chapter 6, “fire came down from Heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filled the House (2 Chronicles 7:1).” The Temple could not be even entered by the priests because of God’s glory possessing it (2 Chronicles 7:2). What an incredible sight this must have been for the witnesses there in Jerusalem! This elicited the response of worship in reverence as these events were transpiring before them. They “bowed down on the pavement with their faces to the ground,” praising God and exclaiming, “Truly He is good, truly His lovingkindness is everlasting (2 Chronicles 7:3).” Then more sacrifices were offered and the dedication was made with consecration. The feast went on at that time for seven days, and on the eighth day they held a solemn assembly. Then on the 23^rd day of the 7^th month Solomon sent the people back to their tents. They were rejoicing and happy of heart because of God’s goodness to them and their leaders, David and Solomon. Thus, the Temple and Solomon’s palace was completed successfully and dedicated (2 Chronicles 7:8-11).

-Then the LORD appeared to Solomon at night (probably in a dream) and said to him many prophetic things. God had heard his prayer and had chosen this place for Himself as a House of sacrifice (2 Chronicles 7:12). He offers conditions for responding to His people with forgiveness and healing when they turn from their wicked ways and seek His face in humility (2 Chronicles 7:14). He promises that His eyes will be open and His ears attentive to the prayer offered in this holy place. He has consecrated and chosen it for His good pleasure forever, and His heart will be there perpetually (2 Chronicles 7:15-16).

-As for the royal line, God offers conditional promises of ruling and establishment if the line of David and the nation walk before Him as David walked. However, if they turn away and forsake His statutes and commandments that have been set before them and worship others gods they will be uprooted from their land and the House will become cast out of His sight and a byword and proverb among all peoples (nations, ethnic groups) to the shame of Israel. Foreigners will be astonished and say, “Why has the LORD done thus to this land and to this House (2 Chronicles 7:17-21)?” Then it will be known by the nations that they forsook the LORD, the God of their fathers who were faithful and brought them from the land of Egypt, and chased after other gods who could not save and uphold them only bringing adversity instead (2 Chronicles 7:22). These warnings came to fruition as Judah eventually collapsed until Jesus, of the Davidic line, reestablished His righteous and perfect Kingdom, which up to this point has been purely spiritual in nature.

-*Application* Pray for wisdom in understanding these deep and meaningful revelations of God to His people. One day Christ Jesus (the Messiah) will be enthroned in the Temple and reign as the ultimate Ruler, King of kings and Lord of lords. While mankind is feeble and unfaithful to carry out God’s statutes and commands, Christ becomes the righteous Savior and Deliverer who redeems the mess that we’ve made. Offer Christ your life and receive His Shekinah Glory indwelt! This is the answer! His promises and warnings endure.

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 7:1-2, 14

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 6

2 Chronicles 6

 

-Solomon’s prayer of dedication at the Temple site on the bronze platform (2 Chronicles 6:13) is power packed with praise, adoration, great theology, and instruction for all God’s people who had gathered and for the future generations and ages. He recounts the promises to his father David and emphasizes the heart, which should always be wholly after the LORD in all ways (2 Chronicles 6:14, 30, 38). God has chosen Jerusalem that His Name might be there, and He has chosen David who was a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 13:14, 2 Chronicles 6:6, Acts 13:22). There are vivid reminders that the LORD cannot be contained in a building of man, that He is incomprehensible and fills more than the Heavens (2 Chronicles 6:18). God hears from Heaven and will never be restricted to this man-made Temple (2 Chronicles 6:21, 23, 25, 30, 33, 35, 39). This is only a place where worship of the One-True Living God can be purely reflected upon and emphasized. Solomon makes sure that the people should understand this, which should keep the Temple from becoming an idol itself. This is tremendous theological truth that should not be missed in this passage.

-We also see the character and attributes of God displayed in Solomon’s dedication.  God speaks into His desires and they are fulfilled (2 Chronicles 6:4, 8, 10, 15-17). God fulfills all of His promises and is faithful (2 Chronicles 6:4, 10, 14-17). We see throughout this passage that God responds to His creation who cries out to Him for forgiveness, grace, and mercy no matter what their disobedience or struggle (2 Chronicles 6:19-42). The fear of the LORD and walking with Him in His ways is again emphasized as in so many places in Scripture (2 Chronicles 6:31). Solomon is teaching them from the wisdom he had received from the Almighty. These principles would be applied in the future as the nation developed and was taken into captivity. These principles still apply today for Jewish people and Christians alike.

-*Application* So much of the emphasis we see in this passage revolves around focused prayer and supplication before the LORD. When we remember His glorious Temple, we should think of His presence, which indwells us and is a sacred abode within our being thanks to the New Covenant. Remember that you are “clothed with salvation,” God’s “resting place” is within you. The “promise (covenant) of His might” empowers the believer. All of the LORD’s “Godly ones can rejoice in what is good (2 Chronicles 6:41, Psalm 132, Galatians 3:27, Ephesians 6:10, Philippians 4:4, 1 Thessalonians 5:16, 1 Peter 3:13).”

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 6:6, 14, 41-42

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 5

2 Chronicles 5

 

-Solomon brings all the leaders of the nation together for the great dedication of the LORD’s Temple. The ark is taken up from Mt. Zion (the City of David), along with the tent and all the holy utensils and properly brought into their places for the worship of God. Inside the ark was the covenant God gave Moses at Horeb on the two tablets of stone when the children of Israel came out of Egypt (2 Chronicles 5:10). When the priests came forth without division from the holy place after sacrifices were made that were too numerous to count and the ark was brought to its place in the holy of holies in the inner sanctuary, the Levitical musicians praised and glorified the LORD with unison of voice, trumpets, cymbals, and other instruments (2 Chronicles 5:11-13a). All of a sudden the House of the LORD was filled was filled with a cloud and the priests could not even stand to minister because of the presence of the cloud, “for the glory of the LORD filled the House of God (2 Chronicles 5:13b-14)!”

-*Application* We see here the holiness and the presence filling the place where God was to dwell. This same exchange comes in our lives when we trust in Christ, He comes in, and He fills us with His Holy Spirit! Turn your vessel (your being) into a Temple for the Holy Spirit to dwell. You will no longer be able to minister as you glorify and praise your King. But, the amazing thing is that He will work in you with His power and authority, which is far superior to anything we have on our own. Die to self and live in Christ!

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 5:13-14

Bible Study Notes for 2 Chronicles- Chapter 4

2 Chronicles 4

 

-This chapter gives the construction details that were carried out under the direction of Solomon for the furnishings of the House of God. It entails the materials and the locations of the items used in the worship of Yahweh in His holy Temple. Careful scrutiny was given to make sure that the plans were carried out just as the LORD had prescribed through Moses. This was His place to dwell in majestic Presence. *Application* While there is a time to be creative and input your own ideas, there are also times when the LORD wants you to simply obey everything that He has commanded you to do even to the smallest of detail. When our ideas add to, alter, or contradict any specific directions God has already revealed to us from His Word by His Spirit, we will go head long into trouble. Take for example these biblical characters and their disobedience as we reflect on always carefully following God’s specific instructions: Adam & Eve (Genesis 2:16-3:24), Nadab & Abihu (Leviticus 6:12-13; 10:1-2), Moses (Numbers 20:8-12), King Saul (1 Samuel 15:3-26), Uzzah (Numbers 4:15, 2 Samuel 6:6-7), Uzziah (Numbers 16:39-40; 18:7, 2 Chronicles 26:16-19).

 

Verse to Memorize: 1 Chronicles 4:19

Bible Study Notes for 2 Chronicles- Chapter 3

2 Chronicles 3

 

-Solomon begins work on the Temple of God on the second day of the second month of the fourth year of his reign in Jerusalem. The Temple is built ornately on the site of Mt. Moriah, where Abraham had the binding of his son Isaac (Genesis 22:2-18) and where the LORD appeared to David at the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite (2 Chronicles 3:1-2). The foundations are laid precisely and the materials were constructed with great care and diligence with fine craftsmanship and beautiful design. Gold was the theme of the place where God’s presence would dwell. The veil separating the holy of holies was fashioned in violet, purple, crimson, and fine linen with cherubim worked on it in decoration (2 Chronicles 3:14). There were two pillars erected at the front of the House. The pillars were named. The one on the right was named Jachin (he shall establish), and the one on the left was named Boaz (in it is strength, quickness) (1 Kings 7:21, 2 Chronicles 3:17).

-*Application* When God is in something it will be established, it will have incredible wonderworking strength, and it will occur quickly in a flashing moment in time. Learn how the LORD works when He decides it is time to accomplish His glory! While we do wait upon the LORD with patience (Psalms 27:14; 37, Isaiah 40:31), remember that when He acts, He does it with precession and swiftness that will amaze and astound. God will build great things in your life, the New Covenant Temple of God, if you will allow. And, He will do this with pillars named Jachin and Boaz.

 

Verse to Memorize: 1 Chronicles 3:1

Bible Study Notes for 2 Chronicles- Chapter 2

2 Chronicles 2

 

-The greatness of God is partially described along with the intricacies of trade with a like-minded nation (2 Chronicles 2:12) engulfs the bulk of this second chapter. Solomon enlisted all of the aliens of the land of Israel, which numbered 153,600, and they were used as the labor force for the extensive Temple building project and the building of Solomon’s royal palace (2 Chronicles 2:1-2, 17-18). God’s greatness is expressed in His superiority to all other gods, His omnipresence, and His incomprehensibility (2 Chronicles 2:4-6). The point was clearly made that nothing could contain Him, but this Temple was built to give the LORD His proper glory with fragrant incense, burnt offerings, and sacrifice at morning, evening, Sabbaths, new moons, and appointed feasts of the LORD, which were required perpetually by the Law given to Moses.

-For this massive work to be completed, other resources were needed from the north in the region of Tyre and the forests of Lebanon. Huram, king of Tyre, had been a close friend of Solomon’s father David and thus an ally and trading partner for this building project of gargantuan proportions. The deal was worked out for resources of skilled labor supervision (Huram-abi), cedar, cypress, and algum timber for an immense amount of crushed wheat, barley, wine and olive oil (2 Chronicles 2:7-15). The resources for the Temple and palace project would be shipped from their northern ports to Joppa and then carried up to Jerusalem with the laborers (2 Chronicles 2:16).

-*Application* Our God does not need any of our man-made grandeur or creativity, but He does enjoy the fact that His creation is giving Him proper glory. He is the maker of heaven and earth and all it contains. He is the One who endows with discretion and understanding (2 Chronicles 2:12-13) and makes all things work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Acknowledge God with your life today, and ask Him which project He might desire for you to complete in this time with His allies.

 

Verses to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 2:5-6

Bible Study Notes in 2 Chronicles- Chapter 1

2 Chronicles 1

 

-This historical narrative book that details primarily the Kingdom of Judah begins with the establishment of King Solomon over the united Kingdom of Israel, who was exalted by the LORD God of David, his father and great king. Solomon and the leadership assembly of the nation go up to the north to Gibeon, where God’s tent of meeting from the time of Moses was now located. The text describes how there is a split with this tent and the Ark of the Covenant, which, if we will remember, had been taken from Kiriath-jearim by David to the temporary place made for it in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 13, 15:25-28, 2 Chronicles 1:4). While in Gibeon after offering a thousand burnt offerings on the alter to the LORD, Solomon is contacted by God in the night, and the LORD said to him, “Ask what I shall give you (2 Chronicles 1:7).” Rather than typical and superficial things like riches, wealth, honor, the lives of enemies, or long life, Solomon asked for knowledge and wisdom so that he would rule the people of God well (2 Chronicles 1:8-10). God answered his request and gave him the knowledge and wisdom, plus He gave him the riches, wealth, and honor such as no king before or after in Israel (2 Chronicles 1:11-12). Kind of nice, right?

-So Solomon went back to Jerusalem and reigned over Israel amassing a plethora of chariots and horsemen, gold, silver, and cedars (2 Chronicles 1:13-15). They imported horses from Eygpt and Kue with wise trade and exported to the kings of the Hittites and Aram (Syria), (2 Chronicles 1:16-17).

-*Application* The presence of the LORD is also with us asking us these kinds of question when we think about it. It is the LORD’s desire to bless you as you seek him with all your heart for the right things with the right motives (Deuteronomy 4:29-31, Jeremiah 29:11-13, Matthew 7:7). The great thing about our God is that when we have the right heart for Him, He gives above and beyond what we ask for in untold blessings and abundance. This is not only the canonical tie between 1^st and 2^nd Chronicles, it should be our desire in the here and now. Seek the knowledge and wisdom of God, which starts with the fear (reverential awe, respect, honor) of Him (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).

 

Verse to Memorize: 2 Chronicles 1:10