2 Chronicles 32:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 32:7
7 Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 32 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, holiness, 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 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 32:7
7 Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:
Analysis
Facing Assyrian invasion, Hezekiah exhorts Judah: 'Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him.' This echoes Jehoshaphat (20:15) and anticipates Elisha's prayer (2 Kings 6:16). The paradox - Assyria's visible army vastly outnumbered Judah, yet 'more with us' - reveals faith seeing invisible spiritual realities. Hezekiah clarifies (32:8) that Assyria has only 'an arm of flesh' while Judah has 'the LORD our God... to fight our battles.' This demonstrates that spiritual arithmetic defies human calculation. Christ's promise 'I am with you always' similarly assures that divine presence outweighs all opposition.
Historical Context
Sennacherib's invasion (701 BCE) threatened Jerusalem with Assyria's military machine that had conquered numerous nations. Hezekiah's faith in God's presence rather than military strategy resulted in miraculous deliverance (32:21-22) when the angel killed 185,000 Assyrians.
Reflection
- What overwhelming odds are you facing where you need faith to see 'more with us than with them'?
- How does recognizing enemies as having only 'an arm of flesh' while you have the LORD change your perspective?
Cross-References
- Kingdom: 2 Chronicles 20:15, 2 Kings 18:30
- Parallel theme: 2 Kings 6:16, 1 Chronicles 28:20, Isaiah 35:4, Zechariah 8:9, 8:23, Romans 8:31