1 And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel.
2 And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim, which Asa his father had taken.
3 And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto Baalim;
4 But sought to the [LORD] God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the doings of Israel.
5 Therefore the LORD stablished the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah brought to Jehoshaphat presents; and he had riches and honour in abundance.
6 And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the LORD: moreover he took away the high places and groves out of Judah.
7 Also in the third year of his reign he sent to his princes, [even] to Benhail, and to Obadiah, and to Zechariah, and to Nethaneel, and to Michaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah.
8 And with them [he sent] Levites, [even] Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asahel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehonathan, and Adonijah, and Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests.
9 And they taught in Judah, and [had] the book of the law of the LORD with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people.
10 And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that [were] round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.
11 Also [some] of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents, and tribute silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks, seven thousand and seven hundred rams, and seven thousand and seven hundred he goats.
12 And Jehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly; and he built in Judah castles, and cities of store.
13 And he had much business in the cities of Judah: and the men of war, mighty men of valour, [were] in Jerusalem.
14 And these [are] the numbers of them according to the house of their fathers: Of Judah, the captains of thousands; Adnah the chief, and with him mighty men of valour three hundred thousand.
15 And next to him [was] Jehohanan the captain, and with him two hundred and fourscore thousand.
16 And next him [was] Amasiah the son of Zichri, who willingly offered himself unto the LORD; and with him two hundred thousand mighty men of valour.
17 And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand.
18 And next him [was] Jehozabad, and with him an hundred and fourscore thousand ready prepared for the war.
19 These waited on the king, beside [those] whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.
Overview of 2 Chronicles Chapter 17
2 Chronicles Chapter 17 focuses on the reign of Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, who is noted for his efforts to strengthen the kingdom spiritually and militarily. This chapter highlights his commitment to God, the establishment of a judicial system, and the sending of officials to teach the Law of the Lord.
Jehoshaphat’s Ascension and Actions
After the death of his father Asa, Jehoshaphat ascends to the throne and initiates significant reforms:
- Strengthening the Kingdom: Jehoshaphat fortified Judah against potential threats, demonstrating a proactive approach to governance.
- Military Preparedness: He stationed troops in fortified cities, ensuring the kingdom was well-defended.
- Spiritual Reforms: Jehoshaphat sought to lead the people back to the worship of Yahweh, distancing Judah from the practices of Israel.
Commitment to God
Jehoshaphat’s reign is marked by a strong commitment to God, which is evident in several key actions:
- Seeking the Lord: Jehoshaphat actively sought the Lord, which led to divine favor and success during his reign.
- Removal of Idolatry: He took steps to remove the high places and Asherah poles, which were remnants of idol worship.
- Teaching the Law: Jehoshaphat sent officials, along with Levites and priests, throughout Judah to teach the people the Law of the Lord.
Judicial Reforms
In addition to spiritual reforms, Jehoshaphat implemented judicial reforms to ensure justice and righteousness in the land:
- Appointment of Judges: He appointed judges in the fortified cities of Judah, instructing them to administer justice impartially.
- Encouragement of Righteousness: Jehoshaphat emphasized the importance of integrity and accountability among judges, reminding them that they were serving God.
Divine Favor and Prosperity
Jehoshaphat’s dedication to God resulted in divine favor, which manifested in various ways:
- Peace and Security: The chapter notes that the fear of the Lord fell upon the surrounding kingdoms, preventing them from waging war against Judah.
- Prosperity: As a result of his faithfulness, Jehoshaphat experienced prosperity, which contributed to the overall stability of Judah.
Conclusion
2 Chronicles Chapter 17 portrays Jehoshaphat as a king who prioritized spiritual integrity, judicial fairness, and military preparedness. His reign is characterized by a commitment to God, leading to peace and prosperity for the kingdom of Judah. This chapter serves as a significant example of the impact of righteous leadership and the importance of aligning a nation’s governance with divine principles.
