2 Chronicles 21:14

So behold, the LORD is about to strike your people, your sons, your wives, and all your possessions with a serious blow.

Study Bible

So behold,
This phrase serves as an attention-grabbing introduction, often used by prophets to emphasize the importance and immediacy of the message. It signals that what follows is a direct communication from God, demanding the listener's full attention.

the LORD is about to strike
The use of "the LORD" underscores the divine authority behind the impending action. The term "strike" indicates a severe judgment or punishment, reflecting God's response to sin and disobedience. This is consistent with the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where blessings and curses were contingent upon obedience (Deuteronomy 28).

your people,
This refers to the nation of Judah, over which King Jehoram ruled. The people are often seen as an extension of the king's leadership, and their fate is tied to his actions. This collective punishment reflects the communal nature of ancient Near Eastern societies, where the actions of a leader could bring consequences upon the entire community.

your sons,
Jehoram's sons represent his lineage and the future of his dynasty. The mention of his sons highlights the personal and familial impact of God's judgment. This is reminiscent of other biblical instances where the sins of a leader affect their descendants, such as the house of Eli (1 Samuel 2:31-34).

your wives,
The inclusion of Jehoram's wives in the judgment underscores the totality of the impending disaster. In the cultural context, wives were considered part of a man's household and wealth. This phrase indicates that the judgment will affect every aspect of Jehoram's personal life.

and all your possessions
This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the judgment, extending to material wealth and resources. In the ancient world, possessions were a sign of God's blessing and favor. The loss of possessions would signify a complete reversal of fortune and divine disfavor.

with a serious blow.
The term "serious blow" suggests a devastating and possibly fatal outcome. This phrase conveys the severity of the punishment, leaving no doubt about the seriousness of the situation. It serves as a warning to others about the consequences of turning away from God, echoing the prophetic tradition of calling for repentance and return to covenant faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoram
The king of Judah who led the nation into idolatry and wickedness, following the ways of the kings of Israel rather than the ways of his father, Jehoshaphat.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which Jehoram ruled. The people of Judah were led astray by Jehoram's idolatrous practices.

3. Elijah the Prophet
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Elijah sent a letter to Jehoram warning him of the consequences of his actions, which included the prophecy of the severe blow mentioned in this verse.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is about to execute judgment on Jehoram and his household due to their unfaithfulness.

5. Idolatry and Apostasy
The events leading to this judgment were Jehoram's abandonment of the worship of Yahweh and his leading the people into idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Leadership
Leaders have a profound impact on those they lead. Jehoram's idolatry led his entire nation astray, showing the importance of godly leadership.

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's warnings through prophets like Elijah demonstrate His patience, but also His certainty in executing judgment when repentance is absent.

The Impact of Sin on Family and Community
Jehoram's sin affected not only himself but also his family and nation, illustrating the far-reaching consequences of personal sin.

The Call to Repentance
Even in judgment, there is an implicit call to repentance. God's desire is for His people to turn back to Him, as seen throughout Scripture.

The Faithfulness of God
Despite human unfaithfulness, God remains faithful to His covenant, executing justice and offering mercy to those who return to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoram's leadership compare to that of his father, Jehoshaphat, and what lessons can we learn about the influence of leadership?

2. In what ways does the principle of sowing and reaping, as seen in Galatians 6:7-8, apply to Jehoram's life and our own?

3. How can we guard against the influence of idolatry and apostasy in our personal lives and communities today?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our actions positively impact our families and communities, rather than leading them astray?

5. How does the promise of restoration in 2 Chronicles 7:14 encourage us to seek repentance and renewal in our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 16:30-33
This passage describes the idolatry of Ahab, king of Israel, whose practices Jehoram followed, leading to his downfall.

Deuteronomy 28:15-68
These verses outline the curses for disobedience to God's commandments, which are reflected in the judgment pronounced on Jehoram.

Galatians 6:7-8
This New Testament passage speaks to the principle of sowing and reaping, which is evident in Jehoram's life as he reaps the consequences of his actions.

2 Chronicles 7:14
This verse offers a contrast, showing the promise of healing and restoration if God's people humble themselves and turn from their wicked ways.