How does 2 Chronicles 12:4 connect with God's warnings in Deuteronomy 28? Setting the Scene After Solomon’s death, Rehoboam turns from the law, so “Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem” (2 Chronicles 12:2). The invasion is God’s deliberate response to covenant unfaithfulness. 2 Chronicles 12:4 — Judah’s Fortresses Fall “He captured the fortified cities of Judah and came as far as Jerusalem.” • Shishak wins decisive victories. • Judah’s proud defenses crumble. • The enemy reaches Jerusalem itself. Moses’ Ancient Warning — Deuteronomy 28 Centuries earlier Moses spelled out the curses for disobedience: • “The LORD will cause you to be defeated before your enemies.” (v. 25) • “The LORD will bring a nation against you from afar… a nation whose language you will not understand.” (v. 49) • “They will besiege you in all the cities throughout the land… until your high fortified walls, in which you trust, come tumbling down.” (v. 52) • “The LORD will drive you and the king you set over you to a nation unknown to you.” (v. 36) Point-by-Point Connections • Defeat: Shishak’s army routs Judah (12:3-4) → Deuteronomy 28:25. • Foreign invader: Egypt returns after centuries of distance → Deuteronomy 28:49. • Fortified cities lost: every stronghold falls (12:4) → Deuteronomy 28:52. • Royal humiliation: temple and palace treasures taken (12:9) → Deuteronomy 28:36. • Lingering consequences even after repentance (12:7-8) → Deuteronomy 28:58-63. What This Teaches About Covenant Consequences • God’s warnings are literal; history validates His word. • Military strength cannot offset spiritual rebellion (Psalm 127:1). • Obedience remains the sure path to national and personal security (Joshua 23:15-16). Living Lessons • Sow faithfulness—reap blessing; sow rebellion—reap loss (Galatians 6:7). • God’s fulfilled judgments underscore the certainty of His future promises. • Remembering these events stirs us to steadfast obedience today. |
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