2 Chronicles 17:1-6

How does Jehoshaphat’s beginning compare with the end of Asa’s reign?

Berean Standard Bible

1 Asa’s son Jehoshaphat reigned in his place, and he strengthened himself against Israel. 2 He stationed troops in every fortified city of Judah and put garrisons in the land of Judah and in the cities of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured. 3 Now the LORD was with Jehoshaphat because he walked in the earlier ways of his father David. He did not seek the Baals, 4 but he sought the God of his father and walked by His commandments rather than the practices of Israel. 5 So the LORD established the kingdom in his hand, and all Judah brought him tribute, so that he had an abundance of riches and honor. 6 And his heart took delight in the ways of the LORD; furthermore, he removed the high places and Asherah poles from Judah.

What is the context?

Jehoshaphat succeeds Asa and strengthens Judah’s position with troops and garrisons. The account then emphasizes his seeking God and following the commandments rather than the Baals or the practices of the northern kingdom.

The Lord establishes his kingdom, and the people bring tribute. Jehoshaphat delights in the Lord’s ways and removes high places and Asherah poles.

The favorable beginning does not make him incapable of later error. It introduces a king whose sincere direction and significant failures will both matter in the following account.

How is this passage commonly understood?

The USCCB notes identify Jehoshaphat as an exemplary king in Chronicles and understand his raised heart here as encouragement toward faithfulness. Wesley likewise emphasizes resolve for God. That assessment should not be expanded into an unqualified approval of every alliance or decision he later makes.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

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