2 Chronicles 20:15

And he said, "Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle does not belong to you, but to God.

Study Bible

And he said
This phrase introduces the prophetic message delivered by Jahaziel, a Levite, during a time of crisis. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used to denote a divine utterance or authoritative speech. This sets the stage for a message of divine origin, emphasizing the importance of listening to God's word in times of distress.

Listen
The Hebrew word "שָׁמַע" (shama) means to hear intelligently, often with the implication of obedience. This call to attention is not merely about auditory reception but about preparing one's heart to receive and act upon divine instruction. It underscores the necessity of being attentive to God's voice amidst life's challenges.

all you people of Judah and Jerusalem
This phrase identifies the audience as the inhabitants of the southern kingdom, Judah, and its capital, Jerusalem. Historically, this was a period of political and military tension, with surrounding nations threatening their security. The specificity of the audience highlights the communal nature of God's message and the collective responsibility to heed His word.

This is what the LORD says
The phrase introduces a direct divine communication, emphasizing the authority and reliability of the message. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) reflects the covenantal name of God, reminding the people of His faithfulness and sovereignty. It reassures the audience that the message comes from the highest authority.

Do not be afraid or discouraged
The Hebrew words "אַל־תִּירָא" (al-tira) and "אַל־תֵּחָת" (al-techat) are commands against fear and dismay. Fear and discouragement are natural human responses to overwhelming circumstances, but this divine injunction calls for trust in God's power and presence. It is a reminder that faith, not fear, should guide the believer's response to adversity.

because of this vast army
The phrase acknowledges the reality of the threat facing Judah. The "vast army" refers to the coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites. Historically, these were formidable adversaries, and their presence posed a significant danger. This acknowledgment of the threat serves to highlight the miraculous nature of God's intervention.

For the battle is not yours, but God's
This statement is the crux of the message, shifting the focus from human effort to divine intervention. The Hebrew word for "battle" is "מִלְחָמָה" (milchamah), which can also mean struggle or conflict. The assurance that the battle belongs to God is a profound theological truth, emphasizing His sovereignty and the believer's reliance on His strength. It encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate control over all circumstances, reinforcing the idea that victory comes through divine power, not human might.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The King of Judah who sought the Lord's guidance when faced with a formidable enemy alliance.

2. Judah and Jerusalem
The southern kingdom and its capital, representing God's chosen people who were under threat.

3. The Vast Army
A coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and others who came to wage war against Judah.

4. The Prophet Jahaziel
A Levite who delivered God's message of assurance to Jehoshaphat and the people.

5. The Valley of Berakah
The place where the people of Judah later gathered to praise God for their victory.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

Do Not Fear
Fear can paralyze us, but faith in God's promises empowers us to face challenges with confidence.

God's Battle, Not Ours
Understand that spiritual battles are fought by God on our behalf; our role is to trust and obey.

Seek God's Guidance
Like Jehoshaphat, seek God's direction through prayer and His Word when facing life's battles.

Praise and Worship as Warfare
Use praise and worship as tools to shift focus from the problem to the Problem-Solver.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's response to the threat in 2 Chronicles 20:15 inspire you to handle your own challenges?

2. In what ways can you apply the principle of "the battle is not yours, but God’s" to a current situation in your life?

3. How do the connections to other scriptures, like Exodus 14:14 and Romans 8:31, deepen your understanding of God's role in our battles?

4. What practical steps can you take to replace fear with faith when facing overwhelming circumstances?

5. How can you incorporate praise and worship into your daily routine as a means of spiritual warfare?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14:14
This verse echoes the assurance given to the Israelites at the Red Sea, emphasizing that God fights for His people.

Psalm 46:10
Encourages believers to be still and recognize God's sovereignty, similar to the call for trust in 2 Chronicles 20:15.

Ephesians 6:12
Highlights the spiritual nature of battles faced by believers, aligning with the idea that the battle belongs to God.

Romans 8:31
Reinforces the concept that if God is for us, no one can stand against us, providing comfort similar to that given to Judah.