2 Chronicles 14: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 14 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

2 Chronicles chapter 14 recounts the reign of Asa, king of Judah, and his significant reforms. Asa is portrayed as a king who sought the Lord wholeheartedly, removing foreign altars and high places of worship to restore true worship in Judah. Under his leadership, the land enjoyed peace and prosperity, enabling him to strengthen Judah's defenses and build fortified cities.

Key verse

“Asa cried to Yahweh his God, and said, “Yahweh, there is no one besides you to help, between the mighty and him who has no strength. Help us, Yahweh our God; for we rely on you, and in your name are we come against this multitude. Yahweh, you are our God. Don’t let man prevail against you.”
2 Chronicles 14:11 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 14:1–2 Asa Becomes King
2 Chronicles 14:3–5 Religious Reform Under Asa
2 Chronicles 14:6–7 Fortifying the Kingdom
2 Chronicles 14:8–11 Threat from Zerah the Ethiopian
2 Chronicles 14:12–15 Victory Through Divine Help

Discussion questions

In v2, what does Asa do that is described as 'good and right' in Yahweh’s eyes?
What actions does Asa take regarding the high places in vv. 3-5?
Asa's prayer in v11 shows his belief in God’s power; how does this contrast with the threat from Zerah?
In v12, why does it matter that Yahweh struck the Ethiopians before Asa and Judah?
When have you relied on God in a situation where you felt outnumbered or overwhelmed?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 14: 2 Chronicles 13, Zechariah 4, Psalm 20.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 15.