2 Chronicles 15:10

So they gathered together in Jerusalem in the third month of the fifteenth year of Asa's reign.

Study Bible

So they gathered together in Jerusalem
Jerusalem was the central place of worship for the Israelites, housing the Temple built by Solomon. Gathering in Jerusalem signifies a unified act of worship and commitment to God, reflecting the importance of the city as a spiritual center. This gathering was likely a large assembly, emphasizing the communal nature of their covenant renewal. The act of gathering in Jerusalem also connects to the idea of pilgrimage, as seen in other parts of Scripture, such as the feasts where Israelites were commanded to appear before the Lord (Deuteronomy 16:16).

in the third month
The third month in the Hebrew calendar is Sivan, which corresponds to late May or early June. This timing is significant as it coincides with the Feast of Weeks (Shavuot), a time of thanksgiving for the harvest and the giving of the Law at Sinai. The choice of this month for the gathering underscores a theme of renewal and recommitment to God's laws and blessings. It also highlights the agricultural cycle, as this was a time of firstfruits, symbolizing new beginnings and dedication.

of the fifteenth year of Asa’s reign
Asa was the king of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to rid the land of idolatry. The fifteenth year of his reign marks a period of relative peace and stability, allowing for spiritual renewal. Asa's reign is characterized by a return to the worship of Yahweh, and this gathering is part of his broader reform efforts. Historically, Asa's reign is noted for its contrast to the idolatrous practices of neighboring nations and even previous kings of Judah. This period is a fulfillment of the covenant blessings promised in Deuteronomy 28 for obedience to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
Asa was the king of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to return the people to the worship of Yahweh. His reign is marked by a commitment to seeking God and removing idolatry from the land.

2. Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, Jerusalem was the location of the temple and the heart of religious and political life in Judah.

3. The Gathering
This event was a significant assembly of the people of Judah and Benjamin, along with those from Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon who had settled among them. It was a time of renewal and covenant-making with God.

4. The Third Month
This refers to the month of Sivan in the Hebrew calendar, a time often associated with the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost), which was a time of harvest and thanksgiving.

5. The Fifteenth Year of Asa’s Reign
This marks a specific time in Asa's reign when he led the people in a covenant renewal ceremony, emphasizing a return to the worship of the Lord.

Teaching Points

Commitment to Godly Leadership
Asa's leadership demonstrates the importance of leaders who prioritize spiritual renewal and obedience to God. Believers today should pray for and support leaders who seek to honor God in their decisions.

The Power of Corporate Worship
The gathering in Jerusalem highlights the significance of coming together as a community to worship and renew commitment to God. Christians should value and participate in corporate worship and fellowship.

Renewal and Repentance
Asa's reforms and the gathering for covenant renewal remind us of the need for continual repentance and renewal in our spiritual lives. Regular self-examination and recommitment to God are vital for spiritual growth.

The Importance of Timing
The gathering in the third month, during a time of harvest, underscores the importance of aligning our spiritual practices with God's timing and seasons. Believers should seek to discern and follow God's timing in their lives.

Influence of Godly Prophecy
The role of Azariah's prophecy in encouraging Asa's reforms shows the impact of godly counsel and prophecy. Christians should seek and heed wise, biblical counsel in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Asa's leadership in 2 Chronicles 15:10 inspire you to influence your community or family towards spiritual renewal?

2. In what ways can you prioritize corporate worship and fellowship in your life, similar to the gathering in Jerusalem?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced spiritual renewal. What steps did you take, and how can you apply those lessons today?

4. How can you discern God's timing in your life, and what steps can you take to align your actions with His seasons?

5. Who are the godly counselors or prophets in your life, and how can you better seek and apply their wisdom in your spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15:9-15
Provides a parallel account of Asa's reign, highlighting his reforms and dedication to God.

2 Chronicles 14:2-5
Describes Asa's initial reforms and his efforts to remove idolatry from Judah.

Deuteronomy 16:9-12
Discusses the Feast of Weeks, which is relevant to the timing of the gathering in the third month.

2 Chronicles 15:1-9
Details the prophecy of Azariah, son of Oded, which encouraged Asa to continue his reforms and led to the gathering in Jerusalem.