2 Chronicles 13:8

And now you think you can resist the kingdom of the LORD, which is in the hands of David's descendants. You are indeed a vast army, and you have with you the golden calves that Jeroboam made for you as gods.

Study Bible

And now you are saying
This phrase introduces a challenge or a confrontation. In the context of 2 Chronicles 13, King Abijah of Judah is addressing Jeroboam and the northern kingdom of Israel. The Hebrew root for "saying" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies not just speaking but declaring or asserting something with confidence. Abijah is highlighting the audacity of Israel's claim against the divinely established order.

you can resist
The word "resist" suggests opposition or defiance. In Hebrew, the concept of resistance here is tied to standing against or opposing something. Historically, this reflects the division of the united monarchy after Solomon's reign, where the northern tribes resisted the Davidic line, which was ordained by God to rule over Israel.

the kingdom of the LORD
This phrase underscores the divine authority and legitimacy of the Davidic dynasty. The "kingdom of the LORD" is not merely a political entity but a theocratic institution established by God. The Hebrew word for "kingdom" (מַמְלָכָה, mamlakah) emphasizes sovereignty and dominion, reminding the audience that the true kingship belongs to God, who has chosen David's line to rule.

which is in the hands of the descendants of David
The "descendants of David" refers to the Davidic dynasty, which God promised would endure forever (2 Samuel 7:16). The phrase "in the hands of" suggests stewardship and responsibility. The Davidic kings were seen as God's appointed rulers, and their authority was a direct extension of God's covenant with David.

You are indeed a vast army
This acknowledges the military strength of Jeroboam's forces. The Hebrew term for "vast" (רַב, rav) conveys the idea of greatness in number and might. Despite their numerical superiority, Abijah points out that their strength is futile against the divine will.

and you have with you the golden calves
The "golden calves" were idols set up by Jeroboam to prevent the northern tribes from worshiping in Jerusalem (1 Kings 12:28-30). This act of idolatry was a direct violation of the first two commandments and a significant factor in the spiritual decline of Israel. The calves symbolize a departure from true worship and reliance on man-made objects rather than God.

that Jeroboam made to be your gods
This phrase highlights the artificial and illegitimate nature of the northern kingdom's worship. Jeroboam's creation of these idols was a political move to consolidate his power, but it led the people into sin. The Hebrew word for "made" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies fabrication or creation, contrasting the living God with these lifeless images. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the importance of remaining faithful to God's commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abijah
The king of Judah who is speaking in this verse. He is addressing the northern kingdom of Israel, led by Jeroboam.

2. Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. He led Israel into idolatry by making golden calves.

3. Kingdom of the LORD
Refers to the divinely sanctioned rule of the Davidic line over Judah, emphasizing God's covenant with David.

4. Golden Calves
Idols made by Jeroboam to prevent the Israelites from worshiping in Jerusalem, leading them into idolatry.

5. Descendants of David
Refers to the Davidic dynasty ruling over Judah, which God promised to establish forever.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Just as Jeroboam led Israel into idolatry, we must be vigilant against modern forms of idolatry that can lead us away from God.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The Davidic covenant reminds us of God's faithfulness. We can trust in His promises, knowing He is sovereign over history.

Spiritual Leadership and Responsibility
Abijah's challenge to Israel underscores the importance of godly leadership and the responsibility to lead others in truth.

The Consequences of Rebellion
Jeroboam's rebellion against God's ordained kingdom serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of resisting God's will.

Unity in Worship
The division of the kingdom and the establishment of false worship highlight the importance of unity in worshiping the one true God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jeroboam's golden calves challenge us to identify and remove idols in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness to His promises in our personal lives, similar to His covenant with David?

3. How can we ensure that our leadership, whether in the church or in our families, aligns with God's truth and righteousness?

4. What are some modern examples of resisting God's kingdom, and how can we stand firm in our faith against such resistance?

5. How can the division between Israel and Judah inform our understanding of the importance of unity in the body of Christ today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
Provides the background of Jeroboam's rebellion and the establishment of the golden calves, highlighting the division of the kingdom.

2 Samuel 7
God's covenant with David, promising that his descendants would rule over Israel, which Abijah references to assert Judah's legitimacy.

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf at Mount Sinai, which parallels Jeroboam's idolatry and serves as a warning against turning from God.