2 Chronicles 28: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 28 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

2 Chronicles 28 recounts the reign of Ahaz, king of Judah, who exhibits a deliberate rejection of God's commands, leading the nation into spiritual chaos. Ahaz not only commits idolatry by sacrificing to pagan gods but also practices human sacrifice, even giving up his own son. As a result of his disobedience, Judah experiences military defeat and oppression from neighboring nations, including Israel, who captures a significant number of his people. This turmoil underscores the consequences of turning away from God and highlights the importance of faithfulness to His covenant.

Key verse

“For he sacrificed to the gods of Damascus, which struck him. He said, “Because the gods of the kings of Syria helped them, so I will sacrifice to them, that they may help me.” But they were the ruin of him, and of all Israel.”
2 Chronicles 28:23 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 28:1–3 Ahaz's Reign and Idolatry
2 Chronicles 28:4–8 Consequences of Ahaz's Actions
2 Chronicles 28:9–11 The Prophet Oded's Warning
2 Chronicles 28:12–15 Compassion from Israel's Leaders
2 Chronicles 28:16–19 Ahaz's Appeal to Assyria
2 Chronicles 28:20–23 Ahaz's Continued Rebellion
2 Chronicles 28:24–27 Ahaz's Legacy and Death

Discussion questions

In v2, what ways does Ahaz follow that of the kings of Israel?
What does the prophet Oded say about the anger of Yahweh in v9?
Ahaz's decisions in vv. 21-22: what do they suggest about his response to trouble?
In v16, why does Ahaz seek help from the kings of Assyria?
When has a difficult situation led you to make choices against your values?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 28: 2 Kings 16, 2 Chronicles 33, 2 Chronicles 29.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 29.