Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical narrative, God is frequently depicted as the preserver and deliverer of His people, Israel. One significant instance of divine preservation and deliverance is seen during the reign of Jeroboam II, the king of Israel. This period is marked by God's intervention to rescue Israel from its afflictions, despite the nation's persistent sinfulness.
Historical ContextJeroboam II was the son of Jehoash and reigned over the northern kingdom of Israel in the 8th century BC. His reign is recorded in
2 Kings 14:23-29. Jeroboam II is noted for restoring the boundaries of Israel from Lebo Hamath to the Sea of the Arabah, a feat attributed to the LORD's compassion for His people.
Divine Compassion and DeliveranceThe biblical account emphasizes that God's deliverance of Israel during Jeroboam II's reign was not due to the king's righteousness or the people's faithfulness, but rather because of God's enduring compassion and covenantal love for Israel. In
2 Kings 14:26-27 , it is written: "For the LORD saw that the affliction of Israel was very bitter; there was no one to help Israel, neither bond nor free. But the LORD had not said He would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, so He saved them by the hand of Jeroboam son of Jehoash."
This passage highlights God's role as the preserver of Israel, acting out of His own volition and mercy. Despite Israel's waywardness, God chose to deliver them, underscoring His faithfulness to His promises and His desire to maintain a remnant of His people.
Prophetic ConfirmationThe prophet Jonah, son of Amittai, is mentioned in connection with Jeroboam II's reign. According to
2 Kings 14:25 , Jeroboam restored Israel's borders "according to the word of the LORD, the God of Israel, which He had spoken through His servant Jonah son of Amittai, the prophet from Gath Hepher." This prophetic endorsement further affirms that Jeroboam's military successes were divinely orchestrated, serving as a testament to God's sovereign will and His commitment to preserving Israel.
Moral and Spiritual ImplicationsWhile Jeroboam II's reign brought temporary relief and prosperity to Israel, it did not lead to a spiritual revival or repentance among the people. The biblical narrative suggests that God's deliverance was an act of grace, intended to provide Israel with an opportunity to return to Him. However, the nation continued in its idolatry and injustice, eventually leading to its downfall.
The account of God delivering Israel through Jeroboam II serves as a powerful reminder of God's mercy and the importance of aligning with His will. It illustrates that while God is a preserver and deliverer, His ultimate desire is for His people to walk in righteousness and faithfulness.
Nave's Topical Index
2 Kings 14:26,27For the LORD saw the affliction of Israel, that it was very bitter: for there was not any shut up, nor any left, nor any helper for Israel.
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The Prophet Amos.
... God of the heathen,"the Creator, Preserver, and Governor ... commissioned solely for
the work of delivering the godly ... of designating the kingdom of God from its ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the prophet amos.htm
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