Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

2 Chronicles 17 Devotional

Delight That Sent Out Teachers

“They taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the LORD. They went throughout the towns of Judah and taught the people.”2 Chronicles 17:9 (BSB)

Jehoshaphat begins by strengthening Judah's defenses, but the chapter's real interest is his heart. The LORD is with him because he seeks the God of his father and walks in his commands (17:3-4). The LORD establishes the kingdom in his hand (17:5), and Jehoshaphat's heart takes delight in the ways of the LORD (17:6).

Out of that delight comes something new. In his third year he sends officials, Levites, and priests throughout the towns of Judah, carrying the Book of the Law of the LORD and teaching the people (17:7-9). The king does not keep God's word in the palace. He sends it to every town. And the next thing the narrator reports is that the dread of the LORD falls on the surrounding kingdoms, so that none of them makes war with Judah (17:10). The army listed afterward is large (17:14-19), but Judah's security came from the LORD. His word is still meant to go out, and delighting in it is where sharing it begins.

To think about: Who in your life could you share something from God's word with this week, simply because you delight in it?

About 2 Chronicles 17: Jehoshaphat Seeks God and Teaches Judah

Jehoshaphat becomes king of Judah, follows David’s early example, and rejects the Baals, so God makes his rule secure. He sends officials, Levites and priests to teach God’s law in the towns, and fear from God keeps the nations from attacking while his strength and army grow.

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