2 Chronicles 21:1-20
Q.1. In what state did Jehoshaphat leave his kingdom? For what reason did Jehoram turn against his brothers? – (2 Chr.21:1-6)
God had prospered the kingdom under Jehoshaphat, who had installed all his sons into positions of leadership over Judah. However, as soon as his firstborn had secured himself over the kingdom, he assassinated all his brothers. The chronicler commented – He walked in the way of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab did (for Ahab’s daughter was his wife), and he did evil in the sight of the Lord (2 Chr.21:6). Though he was a good king, Jehoshaphat’s example was inconsistent, so had not been helpful (2 Chr.18:1, 19:2; 20:35).
Q.2. Why did the surrounding kingdoms revolt against Judah? Why was the kingdom of Judah preserved? – (2 Chr.21:7-11)
When Jehoram purged the kingdom of his brothers and also some of the rulers of Israel, this weakened the nation and signalled to the surrounding enemies that they could take on such an unstable kingdom. Therefore, in quick succession Edom and then Libnah revolted. Jehoram had caused Judah and the residents of Jerusalem to play the harlot, so they had no protection from God. However, there was a saving grace – Yet the Lord was not willing to destroy the house of David because of the covenant which He had made with David, and since He had promised to give a lamp to him and his sons forever (2 Chr.21:7). Six kings had reigned since David. However, God never forgot His promises to this godly king. Generations later, God was still acting in accordance with His long-standing Covenant with David.
Q.3. Why did God warn Jehoram through the prophet, Elijah? How did Jehoram’s reign end? – (2 Chr.21:12-20)
There are times when we read that God relented from His promised judgment, such as with the wicked Ahab and the evil Manasseh (1 Kgs.21:25-29; 2 Chr.33:6, 10-13). Doubtless, God wanted Jehoram to respond positively to Elijah’s letter, and to repent. However, he would not listen. Thus Judah was invaded, and Jehoram’s wives and children carried into exile. He died in great pain with bowel disease. No one regretted his parting, neither did the people honour him in death (2 Chr.21:18-20).