2 Chronicles 17:5

So the LORD established the kingdom in his hand, and all Judah brought him tribute, so that he had an abundance of riches and honor.

Study Bible

So the LORD established
The phrase "the LORD established" underscores the divine sovereignty and providence in the affairs of men, particularly in the governance of His chosen people. The Hebrew root for "established" is "כּוּן" (kun), which conveys the idea of being firm, stable, or secure. This reflects the biblical principle that true stability and success come from God alone. In a historical context, this divine establishment signifies God's approval and blessing upon Jehoshaphat's reign, aligning with the covenantal promises made to David.

the kingdom in his hand
The "kingdom in his hand" signifies the authority and control granted to Jehoshaphat over Judah. The imagery of the "hand" in Hebrew culture often symbolizes power and possession. This phrase indicates that Jehoshaphat's rule was not only divinely sanctioned but also practically effective. Archaeologically, this period is marked by relative peace and prosperity in Judah, suggesting that Jehoshaphat's administration was indeed stable and well-regarded.

and all Judah brought him tribute
The act of bringing "tribute" reflects the loyalty and support of the people towards their king. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, tribute was a common practice to show allegiance and submission. This phrase highlights the unity and cooperation between Jehoshaphat and his subjects, which was essential for the kingdom's prosperity. Scripturally, it echoes the blessings of obedience as outlined in Deuteronomy, where the people are blessed when they follow God's appointed leader.

so that he had great riches and honor
The accumulation of "great riches and honor" is a testament to the blessings that follow a godly and wise rule. The Hebrew word for "riches" is "עֹשֶׁר" (osher), and "honor" is "כָּבוֹד" (kavod), both of which denote not just material wealth but also respect and dignity. This reflects the biblical theme that those who walk in God's ways are often blessed with both material and spiritual prosperity. Historically, Jehoshaphat's reign is noted for its economic growth and military strength, further affirming the divine favor upon him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, over which Jehoshaphat reigned.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who established Jehoshaphat's kingdom and blessed him with prosperity.

4. Tribute
The offerings or gifts brought by the people of Judah to Jehoshaphat, signifying their loyalty and the prosperity of his reign.

5. Riches and Honor
The material wealth and respect that Jehoshaphat received as a result of his faithfulness to God and God's favor upon him.

Teaching Points

God's Establishment
Recognize that true stability and success come from the Lord's establishment. Just as God established Jehoshaphat's kingdom, He can establish our lives when we are faithful to Him.

Faithfulness Brings Blessing
Jehoshaphat's faithfulness to God resulted in material and social blessings. We should strive to be faithful in our walk with God, trusting that He will provide for our needs.

The Role of Tribute
The tribute brought to Jehoshaphat signifies respect and acknowledgment of God's chosen leader. In our lives, we should honor those whom God has placed in authority over us.

Riches and Honor
While material wealth is not the ultimate goal, it can be a byproduct of living a life that honors God. We should use any wealth or honor we receive to further God's kingdom.

Seek First God's Kingdom
Jehoshaphat's reign exemplifies the principle of seeking God's kingdom first. In our daily lives, we should prioritize God's will and trust Him for the rest.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's faithfulness to God serve as a model for us in our personal and professional lives?

2. In what ways can we bring "tribute" to God today, and how does this reflect our loyalty and gratitude?

3. How can we balance the pursuit of material wealth with the call to seek first the kingdom of God?

4. What are some practical ways we can honor those in authority over us, as the people of Judah did with Jehoshaphat?

5. How do the blessings described in Deuteronomy 28:1-14 relate to the prosperity experienced by Jehoshaphat, and how can we apply these principles to our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:13
This verse highlights how God granted Solomon riches and honor, similar to Jehoshaphat, as a result of his faithfulness and wisdom.

Proverbs 3:9-10
These verses emphasize the principle of honoring the Lord with one's wealth, which aligns with the tribute brought to Jehoshaphat.

Matthew 6:33
Jesus teaches about seeking first the kingdom of God, which parallels Jehoshaphat's prioritization of God's ways and the resulting blessings.

Psalm 112:1-3
This passage describes the blessings of the righteous, including wealth and honor, reflecting the prosperity experienced by Jehoshaphat.

Deuteronomy 28:1-14
These verses outline the blessings for obedience to God's commands, which Jehoshaphat experienced during his reign.