2 Chronicles 15:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 15:2
2 And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 15 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, truth, 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 13-19: Central message and teachings
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 15:2
2 And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.
Analysis
Azariah's prophetic word to King Asa 'The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you' establishes a crucial conditional principle. God's covenant presence ('the LORD is with you') depends on faithful response ('while ye be with him'). This isn't works-salvation but covenant stipulation - those who truly know God seek Him and experience His presence. Conversely, forsaking God results in divine abandonment. This sobering warning balances promises of God's faithfulness with calls to human responsibility. In Christ, believers have security because Christ never forsakes the Father, and we're united to Him.
Historical Context
Delivered during Asa's reforms (c. 895 BCE) after victory over Ethiopia, this prophecy encouraged continued faithfulness while warning against complacency. Asa's later failure to seek God (16:12) proved the warning's relevance.
Reflection
- How do you 'be with' God - what practices and attitudes demonstrate you're walking with Him?
- Where might you be tempted to forsake God through neglect or disobedience, requiring fresh commitment?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 2 Chronicles 13:12, 15:4, 15:15, 20:20, 24:20, Deuteronomy 20:1
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 10:38, 12:25, James 4:8