Fear No Fear

(All scripture from Lexham English Bible, Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software)

2 Chronicles is written around the same time as 1 Chronicles, and is also considered to have been written by Ezra. It follows the line of David from Solomon, through his descendants, and then continues to follow the southern kingdom of Judah exclusively. It emphasizes the effects the king’s relationship with God had on the nation and continues through the exile of the nation in Babylon. Even in exile, God is still speaking of the line of David and the Messianic hope it carries. There is a focus on the centrality of the Temple in their lives. It begins with the construction of the Temple and ends with the order to rebuild the Temple. It is a book of God’s presence and what people did with Him. It covers the period of 971 to 515 B.C.

Chapter one shows the start of Solomon’s reign. Early on God comes to him and offers him anything he wants. Solomon acknowledges the great blessings and favour that God showed David and asks for the wisdom and knowledge needed to judge this great people who belong to God. The request pleases God and He grants it. He also adds riches, possessions, long life, and honour. Solomon certainly received them. There has never been an earthly king like him.

Chapter two shows Solomon starting to build the Temple that was in the heart of his father David. He strikes a deal with Hiram the king of Tyre, who had been a friend of his father. Wise workmen were sent to Solomon as well as the finest timber from Lebanon. Solomon took a census of all the able-bodied men in the land and put them to work.

Chapter three is the actual beginning of the work on the Temple. They laid the foundation, built the main structure, built the Most Holy Place, made the curtain to separate it from the rest of the structure, and placed two great pillars at the front of the Temple. Everything he made was covered in the finest golds and materials, intricate carvings, and made from the best of the best of the best – much of it donated or gathered for the purpose by his father David.

Summary

Key Players: God, Solomon, the Jews.

Key Verse(s): 2 Chronicles 1:11-12; 2:17-18; 3:8-14