What does 2 Chronicles 11:2 mean?
What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 11:2?

But

- Rehoboam had already assembled 180,000 warriors to force the northern tribes back under his rule (2 Chronicles 11:1; 1 Kings 12:21).

- This conjunction signals a divine interruption—God steps in to redirect human plans (Proverbs 19:21; James 4:13-15).


the word

- What follows is not opinion or negotiation; it is God’s authoritative message (Isaiah 55:11; Hebrews 4:12).

- When Scripture says “the word,” it reminds us that God communicates clearly, leaving no ambiguity about His will (Psalm 119:105).


of the LORD

- The covenant name “YHWH” anchors the message in God’s unchanging character—faithful to His promises to David while sovereign over national events (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 89:34-37).

- Because the word is “of the LORD,” obedience is not optional; it is the only faithful response (Deuteronomy 10:12-13; Luke 6:46).


came

- God takes the initiative; people do not have to guess His intentions (Jeremiah 1:2; Ezekiel 1:3).

- The sudden arrival of God’s word underscores His active involvement in history, especially when His people face critical decisions (Acts 13:2).


to Shemaiah

- Shemaiah appears first here, yet God entrusts him with an immediate, nation-shaping message (1 Kings 12:22).

- God often uses lesser-known servants to speak into pivotal moments, reminding us that availability matters more than fame (Amos 7:14-15).


the man of God

- The title signals proven character and prophetic credibility (Deuteronomy 33:1; 2 Kings 4:9).

- As “man of God,” Shemaiah stands between heaven and earth, relaying God’s command to spare lives and accept the divided kingdom as divinely permitted (2 Chronicles 11:3-4).


summary

God interrupts Rehoboam’s war plans with an unmistakable word delivered through His faithful servant Shemaiah. The verse highlights God’s sovereign initiative, the binding authority of His word, and His choice to work through obedient messengers—calling leaders and nations alike to submit to His revealed will.

What historical evidence supports the events in 2 Chronicles 11:1?
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