2 Chronicles 15:5

In those days there was no safety for travelers, because the residents of the lands had many conflicts.

Study Bible

In those days
This phrase sets the historical context, referring to the period of King Asa's reign in Judah. It was a time marked by spiritual reformation and conflict. The phrase "in those days" often signals a specific era in biblical history, inviting readers to consider the socio-political and spiritual climate of the time. Asa's reign was characterized by efforts to return to the worship of Yahweh, amidst widespread idolatry and apostasy.

there was no peace
The Hebrew word for "peace" here is "shalom," which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but also completeness, welfare, and harmony. The lack of "shalom" indicates a period of instability and distress. This absence of peace is both a physical and spiritual condition, reflecting the consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that true peace is found in obedience to God.

for those who went out or came in
This phrase describes the daily activities of the people, suggesting that their routine lives were disrupted. The Hebrew idiom "going out and coming in" often refers to the conduct of life, including work, travel, and social interactions. The disruption of these activities indicates a pervasive sense of insecurity and danger, affecting every aspect of life.

for great turmoil
The word "turmoil" translates from the Hebrew "mehumah," which implies confusion, disorder, and panic. This turmoil is not just political or social but also spiritual, as the people had strayed from God's commandments. The "great turmoil" serves as a divine warning and a call to repentance, highlighting the chaos that ensues when a nation turns away from God.

afflicted
The term "afflicted" suggests a condition of suffering or distress. In the biblical context, affliction often serves as a form of divine discipline, intended to bring about repentance and restoration. The affliction here is a consequence of the people's spiritual rebellion, emphasizing the need for a return to covenant faithfulness.

all the inhabitants of the lands
This phrase underscores the widespread nature of the turmoil, affecting not just Judah but surrounding nations as well. The "lands" refer to the territories around Judah, indicating that the spiritual and moral decay had far-reaching implications. It serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of nations and the impact of one nation's spiritual state on others.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
King of Judah during the time of this prophecy. He was known for his religious reforms and efforts to return Judah to the worship of Yahweh.

2. Azariah son of Oded
The prophet who delivered God's message to Asa, encouraging him to seek the Lord and warning of the consequences of forsaking Him.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, ruled by Asa, which experienced both peace and turmoil depending on their faithfulness to God.

4. Israel
The northern kingdom, often in conflict with Judah and experiencing its own share of turmoil due to idolatry and disobedience.

5. The Lands
Refers to the broader region surrounding Judah and Israel, indicating widespread unrest and instability during this period.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Forsaking God
When people turn away from God, chaos and unrest often follow. This is a reminder of the importance of staying faithful to God's commandments.

The Importance of Seeking God
Asa's reforms and the subsequent peace in Judah highlight the blessings that come from earnestly seeking God and aligning with His will.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Azariah play a crucial role in guiding and warning God's people. We should be attentive to godly counsel and correction.

Peace as a Result of Obedience
True peace is a result of obedience to God. This peace is not just the absence of conflict but a deep, abiding sense of well-being and order.

The Impact of Leadership
Asa's leadership and response to Azariah's prophecy show how leaders can influence the spiritual direction and peace of a nation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the turmoil described in 2 Chronicles 15:5 reflect the spiritual state of the people during Asa's reign?

2. In what ways can we apply the lessons from Asa's response to Azariah's prophecy in our personal lives today?

3. How do the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28 relate to the events in 2 Chronicles 15:5?

4. What role does godly leadership play in bringing peace to a community or nation, and how can we support such leadership?

5. How can we ensure that we are seeking God earnestly in our daily lives to avoid the turmoil described in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which parallels the turmoil described in 2 Chronicles 15:5 as a consequence of turning away from God.

Judges 21:25
Describes a time of chaos in Israel when "everyone did what was right in his own eyes," similar to the lack of peace mentioned in 2 Chronicles 15:5.

Isaiah 57:20-21
Speaks of the wicked being like a troubled sea, which connects to the idea of turmoil and lack of peace for those who do not follow God.