2 Chronicles 20:29

And the fear of God came upon all the kingdoms of the lands when they heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel.

Study Bible

And the fear of God
The phrase "fear of God" in Hebrew is "yirat Elohim," which conveys a profound reverence and awe for the divine. This fear is not merely terror but a recognition of God's supreme power and holiness. In the context of ancient Israel, this fear was a foundational aspect of their covenant relationship with God, emphasizing obedience and worship. The fear of God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often associated with wisdom and the beginning of knowledge (Proverbs 9:10). It signifies a deep respect that leads to a life aligned with God's will.

came upon all the kingdoms of the lands
The phrase "came upon" suggests a sudden and overwhelming realization or experience. The "kingdoms of the lands" refers to the surrounding nations and peoples who were witnesses to God's mighty acts. Historically, these kingdoms would have included various tribes and nations in the ancient Near East, each with their own deities and religious practices. The impact of God's intervention was so profound that it transcended cultural and religious boundaries, causing even those outside of Israel to acknowledge His power.

when they heard
Hearing, in the biblical sense, often implies more than just auditory reception; it involves understanding and responding. The Hebrew word "shama" can mean to hear, listen, or obey. The news of God's intervention was not just a story; it was a revelation that demanded a response. This hearing led to a transformation in perception among the nations, highlighting the power of testimony and the spoken word in spreading the knowledge of God.

how the LORD had fought
The LORD, or "Yahweh," is depicted as a divine warrior, a common motif in the Old Testament. This imagery is rooted in the ancient Near Eastern context where gods were often seen as protectors and warriors for their people. The phrase "had fought" underscores God's active involvement in the affairs of His people, demonstrating His commitment to their protection and victory. This divine intervention is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to alter the course of history for His purposes.

against the enemies of Israel
The "enemies of Israel" were often those who opposed God's chosen people and, by extension, opposed God Himself. In the historical context of 2 Chronicles, these enemies could have been any of the surrounding nations that threatened Israel's security and peace. The defeat of these enemies served as a powerful demonstration of God's favor towards Israel and His ability to protect and deliver His people. This victory was not just a military triumph but a spiritual one, reinforcing the idea that God is the ultimate defender of His covenant people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The King of Judah who led the nation in seeking God through prayer and fasting when faced with a vast enemy army.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, under threat from a coalition of enemy nations.

3. The LORD
The God of Israel, who intervened miraculously to deliver Judah from their enemies.

4. The Enemies of Israel
A coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites who came to make war against Jehoshaphat and Judah.

5. The Kingdoms of the Lands
Neighboring nations who witnessed God's deliverance of Judah and were struck with fear.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer and Fasting
Jehoshaphat's response to crisis was to seek God through prayer and fasting, demonstrating the importance of turning to God in times of trouble.

God's Sovereign Intervention
The miraculous deliverance of Judah shows that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people and can intervene in supernatural ways.

The Witness of God's Power
When God acts on behalf of His people, it serves as a testimony to others, instilling reverence and fear of the Lord.

Faith Over Fear
Jehoshaphat and Judah chose faith over fear, trusting in God's promises and power rather than succumbing to the intimidation of their enemies.

The Impact of God's Deliverance
The fear that fell upon the surrounding nations highlights how God's deliverance can have a ripple effect, influencing those beyond the immediate situation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's response to the threat of invasion challenge us to respond to our own crises today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereign power in our lives, as demonstrated in this passage?

3. How can the fear of God, as seen in the surrounding nations, be a positive force in our communities today?

4. What are some practical ways we can bear witness to God's deliverance in our lives to those around us?

5. How does this passage encourage us to prioritize prayer and fasting in our spiritual disciplines?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 15:14-16
The fear of God upon other nations after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea parallels the fear that fell upon the kingdoms after God delivered Judah.

Joshua 2:9-11
Rahab's acknowledgment of the fear that fell upon Jericho when they heard of God's mighty acts.

Psalm 46:10
The call to be still and know that God is sovereign, reflecting the peace and awe that comes from witnessing His power.

Acts 5:11
The fear that came upon the early church and surrounding people after witnessing God's judgment and power.