2 Chronicles 6:36

When they sin against You--for there is no one who does not sin--and You become angry with them and deliver them to an enemy who takes them as captives to a land far or near,

Study Bible

When they sin against You
This phrase acknowledges the inevitability of human sinfulness. The Hebrew word for "sin" here is "חָטָא" (chata), which means to miss the mark or to fail. This reflects the biblical understanding that sin is a deviation from God's perfect standard. The phrase sets the stage for Solomon's prayer of dedication, recognizing that the people of Israel, despite their covenant relationship with God, are prone to sin. This acknowledgment is crucial in understanding the need for divine grace and forgiveness.

for there is no one who does not sin
This universal statement about human nature is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as Romans 3:23, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." The Hebrew word "אֵין" (ein) means "there is not," emphasizing the universality of sin. This phrase underscores the doctrine of original sin, which holds that all humans inherit a sinful nature due to the fall of Adam and Eve. It serves as a humbling reminder of humanity's need for a Savior.

and You become angry with them
The concept of divine anger is often misunderstood. The Hebrew word "אָנַף" (anaph) means to be angry or to breathe hard. God's anger is not capricious or unjust; it is a righteous response to sin and rebellion. In the biblical context, God's anger is always linked to His holiness and justice. It is a corrective force intended to bring His people back to righteousness and covenant faithfulness.

and deliver them to an enemy
The phrase "deliver them" uses the Hebrew word "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or to hand over. This reflects the covenantal consequences of Israel's disobedience. Throughout the Old Testament, God warns that persistent sin would lead to foreign domination. This is not merely punitive but serves as a means of discipline, intended to lead the people to repentance and restoration.

who takes them captive
The imagery of captivity is powerful, evoking the historical experiences of Israel, such as the Babylonian exile. The Hebrew word "שָׁבָה" (shavah) means to take captive or to lead away. Captivity is both a physical and spiritual condition, symbolizing the loss of freedom and the consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a metaphor for the bondage of sin and the need for divine deliverance.

to a land far or near
This phrase highlights the extent of the potential consequences of sin. The Hebrew words "רָחוֹק" (rachok) and "קָרוֹב" (qarov) mean far and near, respectively. This indicates that the consequences of sin are not limited by geography; they can affect the sinner regardless of their location. It also reflects the historical reality of Israel's exiles, which occurred both near (e.g., Assyria) and far (e.g., Babylon). This serves as a reminder of the pervasive reach of sin and the need for God's intervention to restore His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who is offering a prayer of dedication for the newly built temple in Jerusalem. He acknowledges human sinfulness and the need for God's mercy.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are the primary audience of Solomon's prayer. They are reminded of their propensity to sin and the consequences that follow.

3. God
The sovereign Lord who is addressed in Solomon's prayer. He is depicted as just and merciful, responding to the sins of His people.

4. Enemies
The foreign nations that may take the Israelites captive as a consequence of their sins. This reflects the historical context of Israel's interactions with surrounding nations.

5. Captivity
A potential consequence of Israel's sin, where they are taken to a foreign land. This foreshadows the later Babylonian exile.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of Sin
Recognize that sin is a universal human condition. No one is exempt, and acknowledging this truth is the first step toward seeking God's forgiveness.

Consequences of Sin
Understand that sin has consequences, which can include separation from God and captivity to various forms of bondage, whether physical, spiritual, or emotional.

God's Justice and Mercy
Balance the understanding of God's justice with His mercy. While God is just and may allow consequences for sin, He is also merciful and ready to forgive when we repent.

Prayer for Restoration
Emphasize the importance of prayer in seeking restoration and forgiveness. Solomon's prayer serves as a model for how to approach God with humility and sincerity.

Hope in Repentance
Encourage believers that there is hope and restoration available through genuine repentance. God's desire is to restore and reconcile His people to Himself.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's acknowledgment of universal sinfulness in 2 Chronicles 6:36 challenge or affirm your understanding of human nature?

2. In what ways can the consequences of sin, as described in this verse, manifest in our lives today?

3. How can we balance the understanding of God's justice with His mercy in our personal walk with Him?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's forgiveness and restoration. How did prayer play a role in that process?

5. How can the themes of repentance and restoration in 2 Chronicles 6:36 inspire us to intercede for others who may be experiencing the consequences of sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 3:23
This verse echoes the truth that "all have sinned," reinforcing the universality of sin mentioned in 2 Chronicles 6:36.

1 Kings 8:46-50
This passage is a parallel account of Solomon's prayer, providing additional context and details about the plea for forgiveness and restoration.

Daniel 9:5-19
Daniel's prayer of confession for the sins of Israel during the Babylonian exile reflects the themes of repentance and seeking God's mercy.

Psalm 130:3-4
Highlights the need for God's forgiveness, acknowledging that no one could stand if God kept a record of sins.