JEHOSHAPHAT—A Good King Who Compromised
1 Kings 22:41–43; 2 Chronicles 17–20
Jehoshaphat was the fourth king of Judah and one of Judah’s better kings. He had his shortcomings and failures, but overall God’s estimation of Jehoshaphat was favorable. He basically followed in the ways of his father Asa, who was generally a good king most of his reign.
What happens when an otherwise good man compromises for reasons that sound good? What happens when he loves ungodly people too much to offend them? These questions are illustrated in the life of Jehoshaphat.
There are four chapters in 2 Chronicles each describing a certain aspect of the reign of Jehoshaphat:
I. 2 Chron. 17:1-19—His WALK.
A. He FORTIFIED the kingdom militarily (17:1-2, 13-19). A strong national defense is never inconsistent with godliness if the military is in place for the proper reasons. In the previous chapter we are told of war between Judah and Israel (16:1, 9). Jehoshaphat is taking precautions to protect his kingdom.
During the reign of his grandfather Abijah, the armies of Judah numbered 400,000 (13:3). Now, as God prospered Jehoshaphat, Judah’s armies had increased to 1,160,000 men. God honors those who honor him.
B. He FOLLOWED the ways of the Lord (vs. 4-6). The ways of God were a priority in Jehoshaphat’s heart (v. 6). This resulted in:
- He was honored in abundance (v.5cf.1Sam.2:30). As we are “lifted up in the ways of God,” God lifts us up (cf. 2 Chron. 26:16)
- The places of idolatry were removed(v.6).
- The Word of God was taught throughout the land (vs.7-9). While Jehoshaphat armed his military, he also sent out Levites to teach the people God’s Word. [NOTE: This was without the modern means communication we have today.]
Instruction in the Word of God should be a priority in all our lives. Sunday School, Bible studies are important.
Think of what our country would be like if the President made sure Americans were being taught the Word of God by qualified teachers!
If a nation wants peace, it must turn to God (v. 10). If a nation is continually at war, it is because that nation is not following God. Dr. Ruckman said, “Hell is God’s judgment on sin in eternity. War is God’s judgment on sin now.”
4. Economic prosperity (vs.11-13). In the Old Testament a sign of God’s approval was material prosperity. Proverbs 16:7 says that when a man’s ways please the Lord, God makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
II. 2 Chron. 18:1-34 (1 Kings 22:1-32)— His WEAKNESS
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