Themes in 2Chronicles

TEMPLE

The Temple was the symbol of God’s presence and the place set aside for worship and prayer. Built by Solomon from the plans God gave to David, the Temple was the spiritual center of the nation.

As Christians meet together to worship God, they experience the presence of God in a way that no individual believer can, for the dwelling place of God is the people of God. The body of Christ is God’s temple.

PEACE

As Solomon and his descendants were faithful to God, they experienced victory in battle, success in government, and peace with other nations. Peace was the result of the people being unified and loyal to God and his law.

Only God can bring true peace. God is greater than any enemy, army, or nation. Just as Israel’s faithful response was key to her peace and survival as a nation, so our obedience to God as individuals and nations is vital to peace today.

PRAYER

After Solomon died, David’s kingdom was divided. When a king led the Israelites into idolatry, the nation suffered. When the king and his people prayed to God for deliverance and they turned from their sinful ways, God delivered them.

God still answers prayer today. We have God’s promise that if we humble ourselves, seek him, turn from our sin, and pray, God will hear, heal, and forgive us. If we are alert, we can pray for God’s guidance before we get into trouble.

REFORM

Although idolatry and injustice were common, some kings turned to God and led the people in spiritual revival—renewing their commitment to God and reforming their society. Revival included the destruction of idols, obedience to the law, and the restoration of the priesthood.

We must constantly commit ourselves to obeying God. We are never secure in what others have done before us. Believers in each generation must dedicate themselves to the task of carrying out God’s will in their own lives as well as in society.

NATIONAL COLLAPSE

In 586 B.C. the Babylonians completely destroyed Solomon’s beautiful Temple. The formal worship of God was ended. The Israelites had abandoned God. As a result, God brought judgment upon his people, and they were carried off into captivity.

Although our disobedience may not be as blatant as Israel’s, quite often our commitment to God is insincere and casual. When we forget that all our power, wisdom, and wealth come from God and not ourselves, we are in danger of the same spiritual and moral collapse that Israel experienced.