2 Chronicles 17: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 17 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In 2 Chronicles chapter 17, King Jehoshaphat ascends to the throne of Judah after his father Asa. He is noted for his commitment to the ways of the Lord, actively seeking God and removing the high places and Asherim from the land, which symbolizes his dedication to returning the people to true worship. Under his reign, Judah experiences peace and stability, and Jehoshaphat strengthens his kingdom by establishing military fortifications and appointing leaders throughout the cities of Judah. His leadership is characterized by a desire to lead the people in righteousness and faithfulness to God.

Key verse

“Also in the third year of his reign he sent his princes, even Ben Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah;”
2 Chronicles 17:7 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 17:1–2 Jehoshaphat Becomes King
2 Chronicles 17:3–4 Jehoshaphat's Faithfulness to God
2 Chronicles 17:5–6 Judah's Prosperity
2 Chronicles 17:7–9 Teaching the Law
2 Chronicles 17:10–12 Fear of Yahweh Among Nations
2 Chronicles 17:13–16 Military Preparedness
2 Chronicles 17:17–19 Servants of the King

Discussion questions

What did Jehoshaphat remove from Judah in v6?
In vv. 9-10, what did the teachers have with them as they went about?
In v5, why does the text say that Yahweh established the kingdom in Jehoshaphat's hand?
The phrase 'fear of Yahweh' in v10: how does it relate to the surrounding kingdoms' actions?
When have you taken action to seek God more intentionally, as Jehoshaphat did in this chapter?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 17: Proverbs 16, 2 Chronicles 32, 2 Chronicles 14.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 18.