2 Chronicles 20:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 20:15
15 And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not your's, but God's.
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, faith, discipleship. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 20:15
15 And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not your's, but God's.
Analysis
God's response through Jahaziel 'Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's' transforms crisis into trust. The command against fear and dismay acknowledges natural human response to overwhelming odds. The theological pivot - 'the battle is not yours, but God's' (not 'your battle' but 'God's battle') - relieves pressure while requiring faith. This principle appears throughout Scripture when God's people face impossible situations. It demonstrates that spiritual warfare and kingdom advancement come through divine power, not human effort. This points to Christ's victory where believers are spectators and beneficiaries rather than combatants.
Historical Context
Delivered before battle (c. 853 BCE), this prophetic word required faith to obey - marching to battle while trusting God to fight. The subsequent victory without Judah striking a blow (20:22-24) confirmed the word's truth and became a testimony to surrounding nations.
Reflection
- What battle are you fighting in your own strength that you need to recognize as 'God's battle'?
- How does knowing the battle belongs to God change your strategy, attitude, and expectations?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 20:1, 20:4, 31:6
- References Lord: Deuteronomy 31:8, Joshua 11:6, 1 Samuel 17:47, Nehemiah 4:14