2 Chronicles 11:2

But the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah the man of God:

Study Bible

But the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies divine communication, a hallmark of prophetic revelation in the Old Testament. The Hebrew term for "word" is "dabar," which implies not just a spoken message but an active, dynamic force that accomplishes God's will. In the context of ancient Israel, the "word of the LORD" was a guiding principle, often delivered through prophets to direct, correct, or encourage the people. This underscores the belief in the Bible as the inspired, authoritative word of God, a foundational tenet in conservative Christian theology.

came to Shemaiah
Shemaiah is identified as a prophet, a "man of God," which is a title of respect and authority. The Hebrew root for "came" is "hayah," indicating an occurrence or event, suggesting that the word of the LORD was not just a passive reception but an active engagement with Shemaiah. Historically, prophets like Shemaiah played crucial roles in guiding the kings and people of Israel, serving as intermediaries between God and His people. This highlights the importance of obedience to God's messengers, a principle that resonates with the conservative Christian emphasis on the authority of Scripture and prophetic voices.

the man of God
This title, "man of God," is used throughout the Old Testament to denote someone who is set apart for divine service, often a prophet or a leader with a special relationship with God. The Hebrew term "ish ha-Elohim" conveys a sense of divine mission and authority. In the historical context of 2 Chronicles, such figures were pivotal in maintaining the spiritual integrity of the nation. For conservative Christians, this underscores the call to live a life dedicated to God's purposes, reflecting His character and will in the world. The phrase also serves as a reminder of the responsibility and privilege of being God's representative, a calling that extends to all believers in the New Testament context.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shemaiah
A prophet referred to as "the man of God," indicating his role as a messenger of divine revelation. His name means "heard by God" in Hebrew, emphasizing his role in communicating God's will.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is actively involved in the affairs of Israel and communicates His will through prophets like Shemaiah.

3. Rehoboam
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, he is the king of Judah at this time, and the recipient of God's message through Shemaiah. His reign is marked by the division of the united kingdom of Israel.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, over which Rehoboam ruled after the division of the united monarchy.

5. The Word of the LORD
Represents God's direct communication, often delivered through prophets, which carries authority and demands obedience.

Teaching Points

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are God's chosen instruments to deliver His messages. Their words carry divine authority and require careful attention and obedience.

God's Sovereignty in Communication
God actively communicates with His people, guiding them through His word. This underscores His sovereignty and intimate involvement in human affairs.

The Importance of Obedience
Receiving a word from God demands a response. Obedience to God's word is crucial for aligning with His will and experiencing His blessings.

Discernment in Leadership
Leaders, like Rehoboam, must seek and heed godly counsel. Ignoring divine guidance can lead to division and strife.

The Continuity of God's Word
The message of God through prophets in the Old Testament finds its fulfillment in Christ, who is the ultimate revelation of God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Shemaiah as a prophet inform our understanding of how God communicates with His people today?

2. In what ways can we discern and respond to the "word of the LORD" in our own lives, especially when facing difficult decisions?

3. How does the division of the kingdom under Rehoboam serve as a warning for us about the consequences of ignoring godly counsel?

4. What parallels can we draw between the role of Old Testament prophets and the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Shemaiah's message to Rehoboam in our own leadership roles, whether in the church, family, or workplace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
Provides the broader context of Rehoboam's reign and the division of the kingdom, highlighting the political and spiritual turmoil of the time.

2 Chronicles 12
Describes the consequences of Rehoboam's actions and the importance of heeding prophetic warnings, reinforcing the role of prophets like Shemaiah.

Deuteronomy 18:18-22
Discusses the role of prophets in Israel, emphasizing the importance of listening to God's messengers.

Hebrews 1:1-2
Connects the role of Old Testament prophets to the ultimate revelation of God through Jesus Christ, the final and complete Word of God.