What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 17:15? next to him • This phrase ties verse 15 to the larger roster that begins in 2 Chronicles 17:14, where the chronicler lists the commanders who serve King Jehoshaphat. The wording shows an orderly arrangement—each leader stood “next” to another, forming a unified chain of command (compare Nehemiah 3:4–5, where “next to them” highlights cooperative service). • By placing leaders side-by-side, Scripture emphasizes corporate strength within Judah’s army as well as mutual accountability (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). • The orderly sequence also reflects God’s own character of order (1 Corinthians 14:33) and reminds us that effective ministry often flourishes when believers serve shoulder-to-shoulder (Philippians 1:27). Jehohanan the commander • Jehohanan is presented as a “commander”. The Hebrew title elsewhere denotes a chief officer, underscoring both authority and responsibility (2 Samuel 23:19). • His name, meaning “Yahweh has been gracious,” quietly echoes the truth that leadership in God’s kingdom is a gracious gift, not personal entitlement (James 1:17). • The chronicler often highlights faithful leaders to demonstrate how God supplies capable servants for His people (2 Chronicles 19:11; 2 Chronicles 31:12-13). Jehohanan’s placement among other notable officers shows that God raised multiple competent men under Jehoshaphat, fulfilling the king’s earlier resolve “to seek the LORD” (2 Chronicles 17:4). • Cross-reference 1 Chronicles 12:4, 12:13, where men named Jehohanan stand among David’s warriors—reinforcing the idea that God consistently provides strong leadership throughout Israel’s history. and with him 280,000 • The number is literal, testifying to the substantial military resources God granted Judah at this time (2 Chronicles 17:14 specifies 300,000 under Adnah; 17:16 lists 200,000 under Amasiah). • Such large forces fulfill God’s promise to bless obedience (Deuteronomy 28:7). Jehoshaphat sought the Lord, and the result was security and strength (2 Chronicles 17:3-5). • The chronicler contrasts these robust numbers with earlier periods of moral failure that led to military weakness (2 Chronicles 12:1-3; 2 Chronicles 16:7-9). • The figure also illustrates that spiritual fidelity does not negate practical preparedness. Just as Asa fielded “300,000 from Judah” while relying on the Lord (2 Chronicles 14:8-11), Jehoshaphat’s army exemplifies a balanced trust—faith in God and diligent readiness (Nehemiah 4:9). • God’s blessing can be measured in tangible ways, yet the chronicler never lets numbers eclipse reliance on the Lord (Psalm 20:7). summary 2 Chronicles 17:15 nestles within a catalog of commanders to spotlight an ordered, well-supplied army under Jehoshaphat. The phrase “next to him” affirms structured teamwork; “Jehohanan the commander” highlights God-given, responsible leadership; and “with him 280,000” displays the concrete blessing that flows from a nation and king who seek the Lord. Together the details call believers to value orderly cooperation, honor godly leaders, and recognize that faithful obedience invites both spiritual and practical strength from God. |
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