2 Chronicles 15:5

In those days there was no safety for travelers, because the residents of the lands had many conflicts.

Study Bible

In those days
This phrase refers to the period during the reign of King Asa of Judah, a time marked by religious reform and conflict. Asa's reign is noted for his efforts to rid Judah of idolatry and to restore the worship of Yahweh. The historical context is crucial, as it was a time when the kingdom was divided into Israel and Judah, with frequent conflicts and instability.

there was no safety for travelers
Travel during this period was perilous due to the lack of centralized control and the presence of hostile forces. The roads were often unsafe, reflecting the broader social and political instability. This lack of safety can be compared to the period of the Judges, where "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25), leading to lawlessness and danger.

because the residents of the lands
The "residents of the lands" refers to the people living in the territories surrounding Judah, including the Northern Kingdom of Israel and neighboring nations. These groups often had conflicting interests and engaged in skirmishes, contributing to the overall insecurity. The geopolitical landscape was complex, with various tribes and nations vying for power and territory.

had many conflicts
The conflicts mentioned were likely both internal and external. Internally, there were struggles for power and influence within the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Externally, there were threats from surrounding nations such as the Philistines, Moabites, and Edomites. These conflicts can be seen as a consequence of the people's departure from God's commandments, as outlined in Deuteronomy 28, where disobedience leads to turmoil and strife. The turmoil of the time underscores the need for divine intervention and foreshadows the peace that Christ, the Prince of Peace, would ultimately bring.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
King of Judah during the time of this prophecy. He was known for his religious reforms and efforts to return Judah to the worship of Yahweh.

2. Azariah son of Oded
The prophet who delivered God's message to Asa, encouraging him to seek the Lord and warning of the consequences of forsaking Him.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, ruled by Asa, which experienced both peace and turmoil depending on their faithfulness to God.

4. Israel
The northern kingdom, often in conflict with Judah and experiencing its own share of turmoil due to idolatry and disobedience.

5. The Lands
Refers to the broader region surrounding Judah and Israel, indicating widespread unrest and instability during this period.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Forsaking God
When people turn away from God, chaos and unrest often follow. This is a reminder of the importance of staying faithful to God's commandments.

The Importance of Seeking God
Asa's reforms and the subsequent peace in Judah highlight the blessings that come from earnestly seeking God and aligning with His will.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Azariah play a crucial role in guiding and warning God's people. We should be attentive to godly counsel and correction.

Peace as a Result of Obedience
True peace is a result of obedience to God. This peace is not just the absence of conflict but a deep, abiding sense of well-being and order.

The Impact of Leadership
Asa's leadership and response to Azariah's prophecy show how leaders can influence the spiritual direction and peace of a nation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the turmoil described in 2 Chronicles 15:5 reflect the spiritual state of the people during Asa's reign?

2. In what ways can we apply the lessons from Asa's response to Azariah's prophecy in our personal lives today?

3. How do the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28 relate to the events in 2 Chronicles 15:5?

4. What role does godly leadership play in bringing peace to a community or nation, and how can we support such leadership?

5. How can we ensure that we are seeking God earnestly in our daily lives to avoid the turmoil described in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which parallels the turmoil described in 2 Chronicles 15:5 as a consequence of turning away from God.

Judges 21:25
Describes a time of chaos in Israel when "everyone did what was right in his own eyes," similar to the lack of peace mentioned in 2 Chronicles 15:5.

Isaiah 57:20-21
Speaks of the wicked being like a troubled sea, which connects to the idea of turmoil and lack of peace for those who do not follow God.