2 Chronicles 20:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 20:6
6 And said, O LORD God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee?
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, wisdom, holiness. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 20:6
6 And said, O LORD God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee?
Analysis
Jehoshaphat's prayer acknowledges God's sovereignty: 'And said, O LORD God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee?' The rhetorical questions expect affirmation - God is sovereign over heaven, rules all earthly kingdoms, possesses irresistible power, and cannot be withstood. This theology grounds prayer's confidence - if God is sovereign over all nations and irresistible in power, then He can certainly deliver Judah. Reformed theology emphasizes God's comprehensive sovereignty as comfort, not threat. Christ demonstrates this sovereignty - even crucifixion advanced God's purposes, and resurrection proved nothing can withstand God.
Historical Context
Facing coalition attack (c. 853 BCE), Jehoshaphat began prayer by establishing theological foundation - God's sovereignty over nations. This worldview enabled faith that God could and would deliver, producing the subsequent miraculous victory (20:22-24).
Reflection
- How does affirming God's sovereignty over 'all kingdoms' shape your prayers about political situations and world events?
- What situations in your life need to be viewed through the lens that 'none is able to withstand' God?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 4:39, Joshua 2:11, 1 Kings 8:23, Psalms 115:3, Acts 11:17
- Kingdom: Psalms 47:8, Daniel 4:17, Matthew 6:13
- References Lord: Isaiah 66:1
- Parallel theme: Matthew 6:9