2 Chronicles 17:2

He stationed troops in every fortified city of Judah and put garrisons in the land of Judah and in the cities of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured.

Study Bible

He stationed troops in every fortified city of Judah
Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, took strategic military actions to secure his kingdom. Fortified cities were crucial for defense against invasions, and Judah had several such cities, including Jerusalem, Lachish, and Hebron. This action reflects a common practice in ancient Near Eastern kingdoms to ensure protection and maintain control over their territories. The fortified cities served as military strongholds and administrative centers, highlighting the importance of preparedness and vigilance in leadership.

and put garrisons in the land of Judah
Garrisons were military posts established to maintain order and provide rapid response to threats. By placing garrisons throughout Judah, Jehoshaphat ensured a constant military presence, which would deter potential aggressors and maintain internal stability. This move also reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where leaders are called to protect and manage the resources and people entrusted to them.

and in the cities of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured
The cities of Ephraim mentioned here were territories that had been previously captured by Asa, Jehoshaphat's father, during his reign. This indicates a continuation of Asa's military successes and the consolidation of Judah's influence over parts of the northern kingdom of Israel. The reference to Ephraim, a significant tribe in Israel, underscores the historical tension and occasional conflict between the northern and southern kingdoms. Jehoshaphat's actions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining and expanding the territorial gains achieved by his father, reflecting the biblical theme of generational legacy and the importance of building upon the foundations laid by predecessors.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah who succeeded his father Asa. Known for his reforms and efforts to strengthen the kingdom both spiritually and militarily.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It was the primary focus of Jehoshaphat's reign and reforms.

3. Ephraim
A region in the northern kingdom of Israel. The cities in Ephraim mentioned here were captured by Asa, Jehoshaphat's father, and were under Judah's control during Jehoshaphat's reign.

4. Asa
Jehoshaphat's father, who was also a king of Judah. He is noted for his religious reforms and military campaigns against idolatry and neighboring threats.

5. Fortified Cities
Strategic locations within Judah that were strengthened to protect against invasions and maintain control over the region.

Teaching Points

Strategic Preparation
Jehoshaphat's actions remind us of the importance of being prepared and vigilant in our spiritual lives. Just as he fortified cities, we must fortify our hearts with God's Word.

Building on Past Foundations
Jehoshaphat built upon the work of his father Asa. In our lives, we should recognize and build upon the spiritual foundations laid by those who came before us.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
While Jehoshaphat took practical steps to secure his kingdom, he also trusted in God's sovereignty. We must balance our efforts with faith in God's ultimate control.

Unity and Division
The mention of Ephraim, a part of the northern kingdom, highlights the division within Israel. It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's strategy of fortifying cities apply to our spiritual lives today?

2. In what ways can we build upon the spiritual foundations laid by previous generations in our families or churches?

3. How can we balance practical preparation with trust in God's sovereignty in our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the division between Judah and Ephraim about maintaining unity in our communities?

5. How do other scriptures, such as Psalm 127:1 and Proverbs 21:31, reinforce the message of 2 Chronicles 17:2 regarding preparation and trust in God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15:22
This verse provides context for Asa's military campaigns and the fortification of cities, which Jehoshaphat continued.

2 Chronicles 14:6-7
Describes Asa's efforts to fortify cities, which laid the groundwork for Jehoshaphat's military strategies.

Psalm 127:1
Highlights the importance of the Lord's protection in any endeavor, including the fortification of cities.

Proverbs 21:31
Emphasizes that while preparation is essential, ultimate victory comes from the Lord.