2 Chronicles 17:15

next to him, Jehohanan the commander, and with him 280,000;

Study Bible

next to him
This phrase indicates a hierarchical military structure, suggesting organized ranks and divisions within the army of Judah. The positioning "next to him" implies a close association or support role, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation among the leaders. This structure reflects the broader biblical theme of order and leadership, as seen in other military accounts such as those in Numbers 2, where the Israelite camp is organized by tribes and leaders.

Jehohanan the commander
Jehohanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious," is a name that appears several times in the Old Testament, indicating its commonality and the cultural significance of names reflecting divine attributes. As a commander, Jehohanan held a significant position of authority and responsibility, likely overseeing a division of the army. This role is comparable to other military leaders in Israel's history, such as Joshua, who led the Israelites into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:1-9). The mention of Jehohanan underscores the importance of strong, godly leadership in achieving military and spiritual victories.

and with him 280,000
The specific number of 280,000 soldiers suggests a large and formidable force, indicative of Judah's military strength during King Jehoshaphat's reign. This substantial number reflects the prosperity and stability of the kingdom at the time, as well as the king's commitment to national defense. The emphasis on numerical strength is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, as seen in the census of the fighting men in Numbers 1. However, the Bible also teaches that true victory comes from reliance on God rather than sheer numbers, as demonstrated in the story of Gideon in Judges 7, where God reduces Gideon's army to ensure that the victory is attributed to divine intervention rather than human might.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah during this time, known for his reforms and efforts to strengthen the kingdom spiritually and militarily.

2. Jehohanan
A military commander under King Jehoshaphat, responsible for leading a significant portion of the army.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jehoshaphat reigned and sought to fortify against external threats.

4. Military Organization
The context of this verse is the organization and strengthening of Judah's military forces under Jehoshaphat's leadership.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Jehohanan's role as a commander highlights the importance of leadership and responsibility in God's work. Leaders are called to be diligent and faithful in their duties.

Preparation and Trust in God
While Jehoshaphat organized a strong military, his ultimate trust was in God. This teaches us the balance between practical preparation and spiritual reliance.

Unity and Cooperation
The organization of the army under various commanders illustrates the need for unity and cooperation among God's people to achieve common goals.

Faithfulness in Small and Large Tasks
Jehohanan's mention, though brief, underscores the value of faithfulness in both small and large responsibilities within God's kingdom.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
The detailed organization of the army reflects God's sovereignty and order in human affairs, reminding us that He is in control even in our preparations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehohanan's role as a commander under Jehoshaphat inspire us to take responsibility in our own areas of influence?

2. In what ways can we balance practical preparation with trust in God in our daily lives, as seen in Jehoshaphat's military organization?

3. How does the unity and cooperation among the commanders in Judah's army reflect the importance of working together in the church today?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jehohanan's faithfulness in his role, and how can we apply them to our own service in God's kingdom?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in the organization of Judah's army encourage us to trust Him in our personal and communal endeavors?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 17:12-19
Provides a broader context of Jehoshaphat's military organization, listing other commanders and their respective forces, highlighting the strategic and organized approach to national defense.

1 Chronicles 12:23-40
Describes the organization of David's army, showing a historical precedent for structured military leadership in Israel.

Proverbs 21:31
Emphasizes the importance of preparation and trust in God, relevant to Jehoshaphat's military preparations.