2 Chronicles 28:15

Then the men who were designated by name arose, took charge of the captives, and provided from the plunder clothing for the naked. They clothed them, gave them sandals and food and drink, anointed their wounds, and put all the feeble on donkeys. So they brought them to Jericho, the City of Palms, to their brothers. Then they returned to Samaria.

Study Bible

Then the men who were designated by name
This phrase highlights the importance of accountability and responsibility in leadership. In the Hebrew context, being "designated by name" implies a divine or authoritative appointment. These men were chosen for a specific task, reflecting the biblical principle that God often calls individuals by name for His purposes, as seen with figures like Moses and Samuel.

rose up
The act of rising up signifies readiness and willingness to act. In the biblical narrative, rising up often precedes a significant action or intervention by God’s people. It suggests a proactive response to a call or need, embodying the Christian virtue of obedience and service.

took the captives
This phrase refers to the Israelites who had been taken captive by the men of Israel. The historical context here is crucial; these captives were fellow Israelites from Judah, highlighting the internal strife and division within God's chosen people. The act of taking them signifies a shift from hostility to compassion.

from the plunder they clothed all who were naked
The use of "plunder" here is significant. What was initially taken in violence and conquest is now used for restoration and healing. Clothing the naked is a powerful biblical metaphor for covering shame and restoring dignity, echoing the Christian call to care for the least of these.

They gave them clothes and sandals
Providing clothes and sandals goes beyond mere physical provision; it symbolizes restoration and preparation for a journey. In biblical times, sandals were essential for travel, indicating that these captives were being prepared to return home, both physically and spiritually.

food and drink
Offering food and drink is an act of hospitality and sustenance. In the biblical tradition, sharing a meal is a sign of fellowship and reconciliation. This act underscores the importance of meeting physical needs as a reflection of God’s provision and care.

anointed them
Anointing in the biblical context often signifies consecration, healing, or blessing. By anointing the captives, these men were not only addressing physical wounds but also symbolically restoring their honor and status before God and their community.

led all the feeble on donkeys
This phrase highlights compassion and care for the weak. Donkeys, often seen as humble beasts of burden, are used here to carry those unable to walk, reflecting the Christian principle of bearing one another’s burdens and supporting the weak.

So they brought them to their brothers at Jericho, the City of Palms
Jericho, known as the City of Palms, is a place of refuge and rest. Bringing the captives to their "brothers" signifies reconciliation and the restoration of community. The imagery of palms suggests peace and victory, pointing to the ultimate reconciliation found in Christ.

and returned to Samaria
The return to Samaria marks the completion of their mission. It signifies obedience to God’s command and the fulfillment of their duty. This return also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for repentance and unity among God’s people, a theme prevalent throughout the Scriptures.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Men Designated by Name
These were leaders or notable men chosen for a specific task of mercy and restoration.

2. The Captives
These were Israelites taken captive by the men of Judah during the reign of King Ahaz.

3. The Spoil
Goods taken during the conflict, used here to provide for the captives.

4. Jericho, the City of Palms
A significant city in Israel, known for its palm trees, where the captives were brought.

5. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where the men returned after their act of mercy.

Teaching Points

Compassion in Action
The men designated by name exemplify how believers should respond to those in need, using their resources to restore dignity and provide for others.

Restoration and Reconciliation
The act of leading the captives back to Jericho symbolizes a commitment to reconciliation and healing within the community of God's people.

Obedience to God's Commands
This event underscores the importance of obeying God's commands to love and care for others, even in the midst of conflict.

Community Responsibility
The passage highlights the role of community leaders in setting an example of mercy and justice, encouraging others to follow suit.

Practical Mercy
The detailed care given to the captives—clothing, feeding, anointing, and transporting them—demonstrates the comprehensive nature of true mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of the men designated by name challenge us to act in situations of conflict or need today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of restoration and reconciliation in our personal relationships and communities?

3. How does this passage encourage us to use our resources for the benefit of others, and what practical steps can we take to do so?

4. What role does community leadership play in promoting acts of mercy and justice, and how can we support or become such leaders?

5. How do the actions described in 2 Chronicles 28:15 reflect the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, and how can we embody these teachings in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 10:25-37
The Parable of the Good Samaritan reflects a similar theme of mercy and care for those in need, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Isaiah 58:6-7
This passage emphasizes the importance of true fasting, which includes acts of justice and mercy, such as clothing the naked and feeding the hungry.

Matthew 25:34-40
Jesus speaks about the righteous who care for the least of these, highlighting the importance of practical acts of kindness and mercy.