2 Chronicles 17:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 17:6
6 And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the LORD: moreover he took away the high places and groves out of Judah.
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 17 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, worship, creation. Written during the post-exilic reflection on the monarchy (c. 430-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written to remind returning exiles of their temple-centered worship and Davidic heritage.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Chronicles and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Chronicles 17:6
6 And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the LORD: moreover he took away the high places and groves out of Judah.
Analysis
King Jehoshaphat's spiritual disposition: 'And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the LORD: moreover he took away the high places and groves out of Judah.' The phrase 'heart was lifted up in the ways of the LORD' (gabah libo b'darkhei YHWH) means emboldened or encouraged - his heart rose with courage for God's ways. This contrasts with pride (heart lifted up against God). True spiritual courage produces reforming action - removing idolatrous high places and Asherah groves. This demonstrates that genuine spiritual vitality manifests in removing sin and false worship, not merely adding religious activities. Christ calls disciples to both positive pursuit of righteousness and negative removal of sin.
Historical Context
Jehoshaphat's reforms (c. 872 BCE) followed his father Asa's partial reforms, completing what Asa left undone. His courage in God's ways led to teaching the Law throughout Judah (17:7-9), showing that reformation requires both removing falsehood and establishing truth.
Reflection
- What 'high places' - competing allegiances or idols - does God call you to courageously remove from your life?
- How does being 'lifted up' (encouraged) in God's ways produce boldness to address sin rather than accommodate it?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Kings 22:43, Psalms 119:1, 138:5, Hosea 14:9
- Parallel theme: 2 Chronicles 15:17, 19:3, 20:33