2 Chronicles 17:3 – “The Lord was with Jehoshaphat because he followed the ways of his father David before him. He did not consult the Baals”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse highlights a key reason for Jehoshaphat’s success and stability as king of Judah: the Lord was with him. This divine favor was a result of Jehoshaphat’s decision to follow in the footsteps of his ancestor, King David, who was known for his faithfulness to God. Specifically, Jehoshaphat “did not consult the Baals,” which refers to the false gods and idols that were commonly worshipped by the surrounding nations, particularly by Israel’s northern kingdom at that time.
By rejecting the worship of these idols, Jehoshaphat chose to honor the one true God. His devotion to God’s ways was central to his reign, which led to the Lord’s blessing and protection over Judah. The verse emphasizes that Jehoshaphat’s strength came not from military might or political alliances, but from his commitment to following God.
Historical Context
Jehoshaphat became king of Judah after his father, Asa. While Asa had made reforms to remove idols from Judah, idol worship was still prevalent in both Judah and Israel. The Baals were the gods of the Canaanite religion, often associated with fertility and the natural world. These idols were seen as powerful by many in the region, and their worship was widespread. During Jehoshaphat’s reign, there were many threats from the surrounding nations, and Judah’s relationship with God was essential for its survival and prosperity.
This verse underscores a critical time in Israel’s history, when the true worship of God was at risk of being overshadowed by idolatry, and when following the example of godly kings like David was especially important. Jehoshaphat’s refusal to consult the Baals marked him as a king who desired to be faithful to the covenant with God, contrasting him with many other kings who allowed idol worship to thrive.
Theological Implications
The theological message here is clear: when a leader or nation follows God’s ways and rejects idolatry, God’s favor and presence are with them. Jehoshaphat’s obedience to God brought blessings, security, and protection. This principle is evident throughout the Bible: faithfulness to God brings His favor, while turning to idols leads to spiritual downfall.
This verse also speaks to the importance of personal and communal devotion. Jehoshaphat’s decision to follow God and not turn to idols was a personal commitment, but it also set the tone for his kingdom. As leaders influence the people around them, Jehoshaphat’s faithfulness was a guiding force for Judah. Similarly, today, the decisions of godly leaders can shape the spiritual health of their communities.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse contrasts Jehoshaphat with the surrounding culture and practices of the time. It highlights his decision not to follow the example of Israel, where the worship of Baals was rampant, but instead to follow the example of David, who is revered for his faithfulness to God. The simplicity of the verse conveys a powerful message: God’s favor follows those who are committed to Him, especially when they reject false gods. The phrase “did not consult the Baals” shows that Jehoshaphat’s commitment wasn’t just a matter of avoiding outward acts of idolatry but involved a deliberate choice to prioritize God over all other spiritual options.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 15:11 – “Asa did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, as his father David had done.” Like Jehoshaphat, his father Asa was commended for following God, showing the lasting impact of David’s example on the kings of Judah.
- 2 Kings 17:16 – “They abandoned all the commands of the Lord their God and made for themselves two idols cast in the shape of calves.” This verse describes the consequences of idolatry in the northern kingdom of Israel, emphasizing the stark difference between the kings of Judah, like Jehoshaphat, and those of Israel.
- Psalm 115:4-7 – “But their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see…” This passage points out the futility of idol worship, similar to how Jehoshaphat rejected the Baals for the true God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of loyalty to God and rejecting anything that tries to take His place. Just as Jehoshaphat turned away from the Baals, we are called to turn away from modern idols—whether they be materialism, power, fame, or anything that competes for our devotion to God. God’s presence and blessing are with those who honor Him above all else.
The verse also encourages leaders within the church, families, and communities to set an example of faithfulness to God. Like Jehoshaphat, leaders today are called to guide others in following God’s ways, rejecting idolatry and pointing people to the truth of Scripture.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in this verse by the way He responds to Jehoshaphat’s faithfulness. God promises His presence and protection to those who turn to Him and follow His ways. Jehoshaphat’s commitment to following God brought the kingdom of Judah peace and stability, as God’s favor rested upon him. This illustrates the relationship between God’s love and our obedience—when we choose to follow Him and reject false gods, we experience His blessing and presence in our lives.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jehoshaphat’s rejection of the Baals points forward to the ultimate revelation of God’s truth in Jesus Christ. Just as Jehoshaphat rejected idols and chose to follow the one true God, Jesus is the perfect embodiment of God’s truth and love. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” Jesus calls us to follow Him and reject all false paths that lead away from God.
Jesus also shows us that true worship is not about idols or external rituals but about a relationship with God through Him. In John 4:24, Jesus says, “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” Jehoshaphat’s faithfulness in following God points us to Jesus, who invites us to follow Him and worship in truth.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there areas of your life where you need to turn away from modern “idols” and focus more fully on following God?
- How does Jehoshaphat’s example encourage you to prioritize your relationship with God over other distractions or pursuits?
- How can you set an example of faithfulness to God in your home, workplace, or community, just as Jehoshaphat did for Judah?
- What does it mean to worship God “in spirit and in truth,” and how can you apply this to your daily life?
- How does knowing that God blesses those who follow Him inspire you to remain faithful in the challenges you face?
This verse reminds us that God’s favor is tied to our faithfulness. It calls us to turn away from idols, seek God’s will, and trust in His love and guidance. Just as Jehoshaphat was blessed because he followed God, we are invited to experience the same blessing through our relationship with Jesus Christ.