2 Chronicles 20: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 20 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In 2 Chronicles chapter 20, King Jehoshaphat of Judah faces a grave threat from a coalition of enemy nations seeking to attack Jerusalem. Alarmed, Jehoshaphat turns to prayer and fasting, calling upon the people of Judah to seek the Lord for guidance and help. He gathers the nation at the temple, where he leads them in a heartfelt prayer that acknowledges God's sovereignty, recounts His past faithfulness, and seeks divine intervention against their enemies. Jehoshaphat's humility and reliance on God underline a key theme of trust in divine providence amidst overwhelming odds.

Key verse

“and he said, “Listen, all Judah, and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, king Jehoshaphat. Yahweh says to you, ‘Don’t be afraid, and don’t be dismayed because of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
2 Chronicles 20:15 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 20:1–4 Threat from Moab and Ammon
2 Chronicles 20:5–12 Jehoshaphat's Prayer for Help
2 Chronicles 20:13–17 God's Assurance through Jahaziel
2 Chronicles 20:18–22 Praise Before the Battle
2 Chronicles 20:23–26 Victory Through Divine Intervention
2 Chronicles 20:27–30 Return to Jerusalem with Joy
2 Chronicles 20:31–37 Jehoshaphat's Reign and Downfall

Discussion questions

What are the names of the nations that come against Jehoshaphat in v1?
In v12, what does Jehoshaphat say about their ability to face the enemy?
In vv. 15-17, what does it mean for the battle to be 'God’s' rather than theirs?
The phrase 'Give thanks to Yahweh; for his loving kindness endures forever' in v21: what role does this play in their victory?
How does Jehoshaphat’s call to 'stand still' (v17) resonate with your own responses to overwhelming challenges?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 20: Exodus 14, Isaiah 41, 2 Chronicles 32.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 21.