2 Chronicles 15:9

And he assembled all Judah and Benjamin, along with those from the tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon who had settled among them, for great numbers had come over to him from Israel when they saw that the LORD his God was with him.

Study Bible

And he assembled all Judah and Benjamin
This phrase refers to King Asa of Judah, who gathered the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. These tribes formed the southern kingdom after the division of Israel following Solomon's reign. Judah and Benjamin were closely aligned, with Jerusalem located within Judah's territory. The assembly signifies a call to unity and renewal of covenant faithfulness, reflecting Asa's reforms and commitment to God.

along with those from the tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon who had settled among them
Ephraim and Manasseh were part of the northern kingdom of Israel, while Simeon was originally part of the southern kingdom but had territories within Judah. The mention of these tribes indicates a movement of people from the northern kingdom to the south, likely due to Asa's religious reforms and the spiritual decline in the north under Jeroboam's idolatry. This migration underscores the division within Israel and the desire for true worship.

for great numbers had come over to him from Israel
This influx of people from Israel to Judah highlights the impact of Asa's leadership and the spiritual hunger among the Israelites. It reflects a significant shift, as many sought refuge in a kingdom where the worship of Yahweh was being restored. This movement can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to preserve a remnant faithful to Him.

when they saw that the LORD his God was with him
The presence of God with Asa was evident through his victories and reforms, drawing people to him. This phrase emphasizes the biblical theme that God's favor and presence are powerful testimonies to others. It also foreshadows the ultimate presence of God with His people through Jesus Christ, who draws all nations to Himself. The recognition of God's presence with Asa serves as a reminder of the blessings of obedience and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
The king of Judah who led a religious reform and sought to bring the people back to the worship of the LORD.

2. Judah and Benjamin
The two tribes that made up the southern kingdom of Judah, loyal to Asa.

3. Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon
Tribes from the northern kingdom of Israel whose members defected to Judah.

4. Israel
The northern kingdom, often in conflict with Judah, experiencing spiritual decline during this period.

5. The LORD his God
The God of Israel, whose presence and favor were evident in Asa's reign, attracting defectors.

Teaching Points

The Power of Godly Leadership
Asa's leadership and commitment to God drew others to him. Godly leadership can inspire and attract those seeking truth and righteousness.

The Importance of Spiritual Reformation
Asa's reforms were not just political but deeply spiritual, emphasizing the need for personal and communal return to God.

God's Presence as a Magnet
The presence of God in Asa's life and reign was evident to others, leading them to defect from a spiritually declining Israel. Our lives should similarly reflect God's presence, drawing others to Him.

Unity in Worship
The gathering of tribes from both Judah and Israel under Asa's leadership highlights the unifying power of true worship and devotion to God.

Faithfulness Over Time
Asa's initial faithfulness brought blessings and unity, but later reliance on human strength led to challenges. Consistent faithfulness is crucial.

Bible Study Questions

1. What characteristics of Asa's leadership attracted people from Israel to Judah, and how can we apply these characteristics in our own leadership roles?

2. How does Asa's account illustrate the impact of spiritual reformation on a community or nation?

3. In what ways can we ensure that God's presence is evident in our lives, drawing others to Him?

4. How can we foster unity among believers from different backgrounds or denominations, as seen in the gathering of tribes under Asa?

5. Reflecting on Asa's later years, what steps can we take to maintain consistent faithfulness to God throughout our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15:9-15
Provides a parallel account of Asa's reign, emphasizing his commitment to God and the reforms he implemented.

2 Chronicles 14:2-7
Describes Asa's earlier reforms and his reliance on God, setting the stage for the events in 2 Chronicles 15:9.

2 Chronicles 16:7-9
Later in Asa's reign, a prophet rebukes him for relying on human alliances rather than God, contrasting with his earlier faithfulness.

Deuteronomy 4:29
Encourages seeking the LORD with all one's heart, a principle Asa exemplified in his reforms.