Jehoshaphat

Immanuel Lutheran Church ~ Mankato, MN
Fall 2000 Bible Study
Lesson 06 — November 5, 2000

JEHOSHAPHAT

2 Chronicles 17-20

Preliminary Considerations:

Jehoshaphat was the great-great-grandson of King David.
He ruled the southern kingdom of Judah for 25 years from 873-848 BC (cf. 2 Chronicles 20:31).
He was a good and faithful king, who "took delight in the ways of the LORD" and was consequently blessed by the LORD (cf. 2 Chronicles 17:3-6,10-13).
He took a great interest in "Christian education" and saw to the religious instruction of his people (cf. 2 Chronicles 17:7-9).
In spite of all of the positive things, he still made some very foolish decisions, which proved harmful to his family and his nation (cf. 2 Chronicles 18:1; 19:2-3; 20:35-37; 21:1,4-6).

Jehoshaphat’s Life and Career:

Why was Jehoshaphat’s alliance with King Ahab politically foolish and spiritually dangerous?
Why is Ahab’s reaction to the initial prophecy of Micaiah so ironic?
How was the Lord working His will throughout this entire situation?
How did Ahab, despite his unbelief, demonstrate he feared the words of God’s prophet were true?
What should we learn from King Ahab’s end?

Jehoshaphat’s wise governmental/judicial appointments → Read 2 Chronicles 19:4-11

Analyze and discuss Jehoshaphat’s advice for those people he appointed to judge his people.
How does Jehoshaphat’s advice reflect biblical truth with regard both to the source of government’s power and the responsibility of governmental officials.
How might Jehoshaphat’s advice assist Christians as they approach the election of governmental officials.

Jehoshaphat’s successful battle against Judah’s enemies → Read 2 Chronicles 20:1-30

Discuss the nature and state of Jehoshaphat’s faith based on his prayer to God.
What general and specific truths did the LORD’s prophet Jahaziel reveal after Jehoshaphat’s prayer?
How did the armies of Judah display their faith en route to the battlefield?
How did the LORD win the day for Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah?

[PDN]