2 Chronicles 6:17

And now, O LORD, God of Israel, please confirm what You promised to Your servant David.

Study Bible

And now
This phrase marks a transition from past promises to present fulfillment. It signifies a moment of anticipation and expectation. In the Hebrew context, it is a call to action, urging God to act in accordance with His divine timeline. Historically, this moment is pivotal as Solomon stands at the dedication of the Temple, a significant event in Israel's history.

O LORD, God of Israel
This title emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and Israel. "LORD" (YHWH) is the sacred name of God, denoting His eternal and unchanging nature. "God of Israel" highlights His special relationship with the nation He chose. This invocation is a reminder of God's faithfulness and His unique role as the protector and guide of Israel.

let Your word
The "word" of God is powerful and creative, as seen in Genesis where God speaks creation into existence. In Hebrew, "word" (dabar) implies not just spoken words but also actions and promises. Solomon is appealing to the reliability and authority of God's promises, which are as certain as His spoken word.

that You have spoken
This phrase underscores the personal communication between God and His chosen servants. It reflects the intimate relationship God had with David, Solomon's father. The historical context here is God's covenant with David, promising that his lineage would endure and that his son would build the Temple.

to Your servant David
David is referred to as "Your servant," a title of honor and humility. It acknowledges David's role as a faithful servant of God, chosen to lead Israel. This phrase also connects Solomon's current actions to the legacy and promises given to David, emphasizing continuity and divine purpose.

come to fruition
The concept of fruition implies the fulfillment or realization of a promise. In Hebrew thought, it is not just about completion but about reaching the intended purpose. Solomon is asking for the tangible realization of God's promises, specifically the establishment of his kingdom and the completion of the Temple, as a testament to God's faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is the king of Israel who built the temple in Jerusalem. In this chapter, he is dedicating the temple and praying to God.

2. David
The former king of Israel and father of Solomon. God made a covenant with David, promising that his descendants would rule Israel.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, built by Solomon as a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant.

4. The LORD, the God of Israel
The one true God, who made a covenant with David and whose presence is symbolically housed in the temple.

5. The Covenant
The promise God made to David that his lineage would continue to rule Israel, which Solomon references in his prayer.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness of God
God's promises are reliable and trustworthy. Solomon's prayer is a reminder that God is faithful to His word, as seen in His covenant with David.

Importance of Prayer
Solomon's prayer demonstrates the importance of seeking God's will and acknowledging His sovereignty in our lives.

Legacy and Covenant
The covenant with David highlights the significance of spiritual legacy and God's long-term plans for His people.

God's Presence
The temple symbolizes God's presence among His people, reminding us of the importance of seeking and honoring God's presence in our lives today.

Fulfillment of Promises
Just as Solomon sought the fulfillment of God's promises to David, we are encouraged to trust in God's timing and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:17 reflect his understanding of God's promises to David?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in our own lives, similar to His faithfulness to David and Solomon?

3. How does the concept of covenant in the Old Testament relate to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ?

4. What role does prayer play in seeking the fulfillment of God's promises in our lives?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence in our daily lives, similar to the significance of the temple for the Israelites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 7
This chapter details God's covenant with David, promising that his throne will be established forever. Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:17 is a direct reference to this promise.

1 Kings 8
This chapter parallels 2 Chronicles 6, providing another account of Solomon's temple dedication and prayer.

Psalm 132
This psalm reflects on God's promises to David and the desire for God's presence in Zion, echoing the themes of covenant and divine faithfulness.