2 Chronicles 21:16

Then the LORD stirred against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines and Arabs who lived near the Cushites.

Study Bible

Then the LORD stirred against Jehoram
This phrase indicates divine intervention in the affairs of Judah. Jehoram, the king of Judah, had led the nation into idolatry and wickedness, following the ways of the kings of Israel rather than the ways of his father, Jehoshaphat. The LORD's stirring suggests a direct response to Jehoram's actions, fulfilling the covenantal warnings found in Deuteronomy 28:15-68, where disobedience to God's commands would lead to national calamities. This divine stirring is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His active role in the history of His people.

the spirit of the Philistines and Arabs
The Philistines and Arabs were long-standing adversaries of Israel and Judah. The Philistines, known for their conflicts with Israel during the time of the Judges and King David, were a coastal people with significant military prowess. The Arabs, likely referring to nomadic tribes in the Arabian Peninsula, had interactions with Israel and Judah throughout their history. The mention of their "spirit" being stirred suggests a divinely orchestrated motivation to act against Jehoram, highlighting God's control over even the hearts and intentions of nations (Proverbs 21:1).

who lived near the Cushites
The Cushites, often associated with the region south of Egypt, possibly modern-day Sudan, were known for their distinct culture and interactions with the ancient Near East. The geographical reference to those "who lived near the Cushites" suggests a specific group of Arabs who were in proximity to this region, indicating the broad reach of Jehoram's adversaries. This detail underscores the extent of the threat against Judah, as it involved not only local enemies but also those from more distant lands. The inclusion of the Cushites may also serve to remind readers of the interconnectedness of the ancient world and the widespread influence of God's actions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoram
The king of Judah, son of Jehoshaphat, who led the nation into idolatry and wickedness, departing from the ways of his father.

2. The LORD
The sovereign God of Israel, who exercises judgment and discipline over His people.

3. Philistines
A neighboring people often in conflict with Israel, known for their military prowess and enmity towards God's people.

4. Arabs
Tribes living near the Cushites, involved in the conflict against Judah as instruments of God's judgment.

5. Cushites
A people group from the region of Cush, often associated with the area south of Egypt, indicating the geographical context of the Arabs.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes, including judgment against His people when they stray from His commands.

Consequences of Idolatry and Disobedience
Jehoram's idolatry led to national consequences, reminding us that our personal sins can have broader impacts on our communities.

The Role of Adversity in God's Plan
Adversity can be a tool used by God to bring about repentance and return to Him. It is important to seek God's purpose in our trials.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoram's failure as a leader highlights the need for leaders to follow God's ways, as their actions can lead a nation towards or away from God.

God's Faithfulness to His Covenant
Despite Jehoram's unfaithfulness, God remained faithful to His covenant with David, showing His enduring commitment to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jehoram's reign in 2 Chronicles 21:16 illustrate the consequences of turning away from God?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the events described in this verse, and how does this apply to our understanding of current world events?

3. Reflect on a time when adversity led you to a deeper relationship with God. How can this passage encourage you to seek God's purpose in difficult times?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jehoram's leadership about the impact of personal choices on those we lead or influence?

5. How does God's faithfulness to His covenant with David, despite Jehoram's failures, encourage us in our own walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 8:20-22
Provides a parallel account of Jehoram's reign and the revolt of Edom, illustrating the broader context of his troubled rule.

Leviticus 26:17
Discusses the consequences of disobedience to God, including being defeated by enemies, which is relevant to Jehoram's situation.

Proverbs 16:7
Highlights how God can influence the hearts of others, either for peace or conflict, as seen in the stirring of the Philistines and Arabs.

Isaiah 45:7
Affirms God's sovereignty over both peace and calamity, relevant to understanding His role in stirring up adversaries against Jehoram.