What scriptural connections exist between 2 Chronicles 23:21 and other biblical celebrations of peace? Setting the scene: 2 Chronicles 23:21 “ ‘All the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was quiet, because they had put Athaliah to death by the sword.’ ” Athaliah’s violent reign had filled Jerusalem with fear. Once her tyranny ended, two beautiful responses burst forth: rejoicing and quiet. These twin notes—celebration and peace—echo through Scripture every time God sweeps away evil and restores His people. Peace as the fruit of righteous judgment • God never grants peace by ignoring wickedness; He removes it. • Athaliah’s death parallels earlier moments when God’s justice opened the door to rest: – Exodus 15:1–2 – after Egypt’s army drowned, Israel sang, “The LORD is my strength and song.” – Judges 5:31 – “May all Your enemies perish… but may those who love Him shine…”; the land then “had peace forty years.” – 1 Samuel 11:13–15 – Saul’s victory over the Ammonites led Israel to “rejoice greatly.” Echoes of rejoicing and quietness across Israel’s story • 2 Kings 11:20 – the parallel account of Athaliah’s fall repeats, “All the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was quiet.” • Joshua 21:44 – “The LORD gave them rest on every side.” • 1 Kings 4:24-25 – under Solomon, “Judah and Israel lived in safety… every man under his vine and fig tree.” • Nehemiah 8:12 – restoration sparks “great joy, because they understood the words made known to them.” • Esther 9:22 – Purim becomes “days of feasting and joy, of sending portions… and gifts to the poor.” Songs and prayers that celebrate God-given peace • Psalm 46:9 – “He makes wars to cease to the ends of the earth.” • Psalm 85:8 – “He will speak peace to His people.” • Psalm 122:6-7 – “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem… peace be within your walls.” • Isaiah 32:17 – “The work of righteousness will be peace, and the service of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever.” The prophetic horizon: ultimate peace in the Messiah • Isaiah 9:6 – “And He will be called… Prince of Peace.” • Zechariah 9:10 – Messiah “will proclaim peace to the nations.” • Luke 2:14 – angels announce Jesus’ birth: “peace on earth to men on whom His favor rests.” • John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you.” • Acts 9:31 – the early church “enjoyed peace… and increased.” • Romans 5:1 – “Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” • Revelation 21:4 – every tear wiped away; perfect, unending peace. Bringing it home • 2 Chronicles 23:21 invites us to trust that when God deals with evil, He follows with rejoicing and quiet. • The same Lord who silenced Athaliah’s tyranny still overthrows sin and grants rest to hearts that embrace His Son. • Our celebrations today—worship services, testimonies, even simple moments of thankfulness—join the long biblical chorus that shouts, “The Lord has triumphed, let us rejoice, and be quieted in His peace.” |
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