Topical Encyclopedia Oded, a lesser-known prophet in the Old Testament, is mentioned in the context of a significant historical event involving the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. His account is found in 2 Chronicles 28, where he plays a crucial role during the reign of King Ahaz of Judah.Historical Context During the time of Oded, the kingdom of Israel was divided into two separate entities: the northern kingdom, known as Israel, and the southern kingdom, known as Judah. King Ahaz ruled over Judah, and his reign was marked by idolatry and a departure from the ways of the LORD. As a result, Judah faced numerous challenges, including military threats from neighboring nations. In 2 Chronicles 28:5-8, the narrative describes how the LORD allowed King Pekah of Israel to defeat Judah. The Israelites captured a large number of Judean captives and took much spoil to Samaria. This event set the stage for Oded's prophetic intervention. Oded's Prophetic Intervention Oded is introduced in 2 Chronicles 28:9-11. As the Israelites brought the captives and spoil to Samaria, Oded, identified as a prophet of the LORD, went out to meet the returning army. He delivered a powerful message, rebuking the Israelites for their actions: "But a prophet of the LORD named Oded was there, and he went out to meet the army upon its return to Samaria. 'Behold,' he said to them, 'because the LORD, the God of your fathers, was angry with Judah, He delivered them into your hand. But you have slaughtered them in a rage that reaches up to heaven. And now you intend to reduce to slavery the men and women of Judah and Jerusalem. But are you not also guilty before the LORD your God? Now therefore, listen to me and return the captives you have taken from your brothers, for the fierce anger of the LORD is upon you.'" (2 Chronicles 28:9-11) Oded's message emphasized the shared heritage and brotherhood between the Israelites and the people of Judah. He reminded them of their own guilt before God and warned them of the LORD's fierce anger if they continued with their plans to enslave their fellow Israelites. Response to Oded's Message Remarkably, the leaders of Israel heeded Oded's prophetic warning. In 2 Chronicles 28:12-15, several leaders, including Azariah son of Johanan, Berekiah son of Meshillemoth, Jehizkiah son of Shallum, and Amasa son of Hadlai, stood in opposition to the army's actions. They acknowledged the prophet's words and took steps to rectify the situation: "So the armed men left the captives and the plunder before the leaders and all the assembly. Then the men who were designated by name rose up and took the captives, and from the plunder they clothed all who were naked. They gave them clothes and sandals, food and drink, and anointed them. And they led all the feeble ones on donkeys and brought them to their brothers at Jericho, the city of palms. Then they returned to Samaria." (2 Chronicles 28:14-15) Significance of Oded's Ministry Oded's intervention highlights the role of prophets as messengers of God's justice and mercy. His boldness in confronting the victorious army and his appeal to their conscience demonstrate the power of prophetic ministry to bring about repentance and restoration. Oded's actions serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and brotherhood among God's people, even in times of conflict and division. Oded's account, though brief, underscores the enduring principle that God's prophets are called to speak truth to power, advocate for justice, and remind God's people of their covenantal responsibilities. His legacy is one of courage and faithfulness in the service of the LORD. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 28:9But a prophet of the LORD was there, whose name was Oded: and he went out before the host that came to Samaria, and said to them, Behold, because the LORD God of your fathers was wroth with Judah, he has delivered them into your hand, and you have slain them in a rage that reaches up to heaven. Nave's Topical Index Library The Kingdom of Samaria. National Apostasy Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ... Resources What is the significance of Mount Ephraim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophets are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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