What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 13:5? Do you not know “Do you not know…” (2 Chronicles 13:5) sounds like a gentle rebuke. Abijah, king of Judah, is reminding Jeroboam’s northern army of a truth they once embraced. • The wording assumes the fact is settled and publicly acknowledged (cf. Romans 6:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19). • Abijah’s aim is to call his rivals back to what God already revealed, not to negotiate new terms. that the LORD, the God of Israel By naming “the LORD, the God of Israel,” Abijah appeals to the covenant name Yahweh, the One who delivered Israel from Egypt and established them in the land (Exodus 3:14–15; Deuteronomy 5:6). • He reminds them they are all accountable to the same sovereign, regardless of political break-up. • The split kingdom has not changed God’s identity or authority (Malachi 3:6; James 1:17). has given the kingship of Israel “Has given” highlights a past, decisive act of God. Kingship is not seized; it is bestowed (1 Samuel 16:1, 12–13; Psalm 75:6–7). • Abijah stresses divine grant over human choice. • Any attempt to overturn that grant is rebellion against God Himself (Numbers 16:1-3, 30). to David and his descendants forever The promise is perpetual: “forever.” God selected David, then bound the throne to David’s line (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 89:3-4, 35-37). • Even exile could not annul this word; it ultimately points to the Messiah, Jesus, the Son of David (Luke 1:32-33; Acts 2:30-36). • Abijah’s confidence rests on that unbroken line, not on Judah’s military strength. by a covenant of salt In Scripture, salt speaks of permanence and preservation. A “covenant of salt” underscores durability (Leviticus 2:13; Numbers 18:19). • Salt resists decay; likewise God’s covenant with David will not spoil or fade. • The phrase reassures God’s people that His promises remain intact through every season (Hebrews 6:17-18). summary 2 Chronicles 13:5 affirms that the LORD made an unchangeable, enduring covenant with David, granting his lineage the throne of Israel forever. Abijah’s call—“Do you not know?”—reminds God’s people that security rests not in human schemes but in the faithful, preserving promise of the covenant-making God. |
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