2 Chronicles 33: Group Study Handout

Overview

2 Chronicles 33 recounts the reign of King Manasseh of Judah, who is depicted as one of the most wicked kings in Israel's history. Initially, he led the nation into idolatry, rebuilding the high places that his father Hezekiah had removed, and even engaged in practices such as child sacrifice and divination. His actions provoked the Lord to anger, leading to an Assyrian invasion. Manasseh was taken captive but, in his distress, he turned to God, demonstrating profound repentance. This act of humility moved God to restore him to his kingdom, whereupon he initiated reforms by removing foreign gods and restoring the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem.

Key verse

“When he was in distress, he begged Yahweh his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. He prayed to him; and he was entreated by him, and heard his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that Yahweh was God.”

2 Chronicles 33:12-13 (WEB)

Outline

1. 2 Chronicles 33:1–2 Manasseh's Reign Begins
2. 2 Chronicles 33:3–9 Idolatry and Evil Practices
3. 2 Chronicles 33:10–11 Yahweh's Warning and Captivity
4. 2 Chronicles 33:12–13 Repentance in Captivity
5. 2 Chronicles 33:14–16 Reforms After Restoration
6. 2 Chronicles 33:17–19 The People’s Partial Obedience
7. 2 Chronicles 33:20–25 Amon's Reign and Downfall

Discussion questions

1. In v3, what specific practices does Manasseh reinstate that his father Hezekiah had removed?
2. What act of repentance does Manasseh undertake in v12 when he is in distress?
3. In v10, why do the people not listen to Yahweh's warnings despite Manasseh's actions?
4. In v19, what does the mention of Hozai suggest about the recording of Manasseh's reign?
5. When have you felt compelled to change after realizing the consequences of your actions like Manasseh did in v13?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 33: 2 Chronicles 7, Proverbs 29, 2 Kings 21.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 34.