2 Chronicles 6:36

When they sin against You--for there is no one who does not sin--and You become angry with them and deliver them to an enemy who takes them as captives to a land far or near,

Study Bible

When they sin against You
This phrase acknowledges the inevitability of human sinfulness, a theme consistent throughout Scripture. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes that all have sinned (Romans 3:23). In the context of 2 Chronicles, Solomon is praying during the dedication of the temple, recognizing the people's propensity to sin and the need for divine forgiveness.

for there is no one who does not sin
This universal truth is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as Ecclesiastes 7:20 and 1 John 1:8. It underscores the fallen nature of humanity and the need for a savior. This acknowledgment of universal sinfulness sets the stage for the necessity of Christ's redemptive work.

and You become angry with them
God's anger is a response to sin and disobedience, reflecting His holiness and justice. Throughout the Old Testament, God's anger often leads to corrective action, intended to bring His people back to righteousness. This is seen in the cycles of sin, judgment, and repentance in the book of Judges.

and deliver them to an enemy
This reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where disobedience leads to consequences, including subjugation by foreign powers. Historical instances include the Assyrian and Babylonian exiles, which were seen as divine judgments for Israel's unfaithfulness.

who takes them as captives
The concept of captivity is significant in Israel's history, notably the Babylonian exile. Captivity serves as both punishment and a means of purification, leading the people to repentance and eventual restoration. It also foreshadows spiritual captivity to sin, from which Christ delivers believers.

to a land far or near
This phrase indicates the extent of God's judgment, which can reach any distance. Historically, Israel was taken captive to lands both near (such as Egypt) and far (such as Babylon). It highlights God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use them as instruments of His will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who is offering a prayer of dedication for the newly built temple in Jerusalem. He acknowledges human sinfulness and the need for God's mercy.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are the primary audience of Solomon's prayer. They are reminded of their propensity to sin and the consequences that follow.

3. God
The sovereign Lord who is addressed in Solomon's prayer. He is depicted as just and merciful, responding to the sins of His people.

4. Enemies
The foreign nations that may take the Israelites captive as a consequence of their sins. This reflects the historical context of Israel's interactions with surrounding nations.

5. Captivity
A potential consequence of Israel's sin, where they are taken to a foreign land. This foreshadows the later Babylonian exile.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of Sin
Recognize that sin is a universal human condition. No one is exempt, and acknowledging this truth is the first step toward seeking God's forgiveness.

Consequences of Sin
Understand that sin has consequences, which can include separation from God and captivity to various forms of bondage, whether physical, spiritual, or emotional.

God's Justice and Mercy
Balance the understanding of God's justice with His mercy. While God is just and may allow consequences for sin, He is also merciful and ready to forgive when we repent.

Prayer for Restoration
Emphasize the importance of prayer in seeking restoration and forgiveness. Solomon's prayer serves as a model for how to approach God with humility and sincerity.

Hope in Repentance
Encourage believers that there is hope and restoration available through genuine repentance. God's desire is to restore and reconcile His people to Himself.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's acknowledgment of universal sinfulness in 2 Chronicles 6:36 challenge or affirm your understanding of human nature?

2. In what ways can the consequences of sin, as described in this verse, manifest in our lives today?

3. How can we balance the understanding of God's justice with His mercy in our personal walk with Him?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's forgiveness and restoration. How did prayer play a role in that process?

5. How can the themes of repentance and restoration in 2 Chronicles 6:36 inspire us to intercede for others who may be experiencing the consequences of sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 3:23
This verse echoes the truth that "all have sinned," reinforcing the universality of sin mentioned in 2 Chronicles 6:36.

1 Kings 8:46-50
This passage is a parallel account of Solomon's prayer, providing additional context and details about the plea for forgiveness and restoration.

Daniel 9:5-19
Daniel's prayer of confession for the sins of Israel during the Babylonian exile reflects the themes of repentance and seeking God's mercy.

Psalm 130:3-4
Highlights the need for God's forgiveness, acknowledging that no one could stand if God kept a record of sins.