2 Chronicles 6: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 6 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In 2 Chronicles chapter 6, King Solomon stands before the assembled congregation of Israel to dedicate the newly constructed Temple of the Lord. He offers a heartfelt prayer, acknowledging God’s greatness and His faithfulness to Israel. Solomon's address underscores the importance of the Temple as a place where God will hear the prayers and supplications of His people, emphasizing God's transcendent nature—greater than the heavens yet willing to dwell among His people. He pleads with the Lord to answer prayers made in this sacred place, highlighting the connection between divine worship, national identity, and communal prayer.

Key verse

“But will God indeed dwell with men on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens can’t contain you; how much less this house which I have built!”
2 Chronicles 6:18 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 6:1–11 Solomon's Address and Blessing
2 Chronicles 6:12–21 Prayer for God’s Attention
2 Chronicles 6:22–39 Specific Prayers for Israel
2 Chronicles 6:40–42 Final Plea and Acknowledgment

Discussion questions

In v2, what does Solomon call the structure he has built for Yahweh?
What does Solomon do in v12 before the assembly of Israel?
In v18, what tension exists in Solomon's question about God dwelling with men?
In v28, how does Solomon's prayer address the possibility of famine?
When have you sought forgiveness after realizing you have sinned against someone?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 6: 2 Chronicles 7, 1 Kings 8, Psalm 132.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 7.