Journal Through the Bible: Week 94 Thursday

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II Chronicles chapter 13

The history of the southern kingdom of Judah continues with the account of Abijah, the son of Rehoboam, who reigned in Jerusalem for 3 years. Abijah was also called Abijam in I Kings.

In the beginning of this chapter the battle lines are drawn between Abijah's army and that of Jeroboam of Israel. Evidently Jeroboam had set his eyes on more of Judah's territory because Abijah preached to Jeroboam and his troops of the futility of their venture since Israel relied on golden calves as their gods and Judah relied upon the LORD.

The passage does not say how, but when the army of Judah cried unto the LORD, the priests blew the trumpets, and the men gave a great shout God smote the army of Israel and delivered Judah from Jeroboam's larger force. Judah was the nation that recovered certain cities. Jeroboam's kingdom was then somewhat weakened.

Does God issue any commands?

• God did not speak, but Abijah reminded Jeroboam and his followers that God had made specific commands concerning the order of worship under the Levites.

Does God make any promises?

• Abijah reminded Jeroboam of the promises of God to preserve the lineage of David in Judah. (Evidently Jeroboam had set his sights upon uniting the kingdom once more with himself as its ruler.)

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• Abijah said that God himself was their captain. Jesus is the captain over the armies of God.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• One day the Captain will lead the armies of God against the foes that seek to overrun them. Like in this battle between Abijah and Jeroboam, the worldly armies will not prevail.