Understanding 2 Chronicles 28:6

Verse Text: "For Pekah the son of Remaliah slew in Judah an hundred and twenty thousand in one day, which were all valiant men; because they had forsaken the Lord God of their fathers."

Bible Verse Meanings

This verse narrates the tragic events during the reign of King Ahaz in Judah. Pekah, the king of Israel, led a devastating attack resulting in the loss of a significant number of lives among the valiant men of Judah. The verse highlights the consequences of turning away from God, emphasizing that the tragedies faced by the people were linked to their spiritual disloyalty.

Bible Verse Interpretations

• Historical Context:

  During this period, the Kingdom of Israel was divided, and conflicts between Israel and Judah were common. The hostile relationship was further exacerbated by King Ahaz’s unfaithfulness and reliance on foreign powers over God for help. This led to divine judgments and military losses.

• Spiritual Implications:

  The loss of 120,000 men is portrayed as a direct result of Judah's forsaking of the Lord. This highlights the Biblical principle that turning away from God can lead to disastrous consequences, both spiritually and physically.

Bible Verse Explanations

According to Matthew Henry, this verse underscores the seriousness of spiritual rebellion against God. The valiant men represent the strength and potential of Judah, which was wasted due to their unfaithfulness. Albert Barnes adds that the magnitude of the loss serves as a warning about the dangers of forsaking God. Adam Clarke examines the broader implications of the conflict, noting how the events serve as a reminder of God's sovereignty over nations, and the importance of fidelity to divine guidance.

Bible Study Insights

This passage serves as a crucial lesson for contemporary readers about the importance of remaining faithful to God, especially in times of turmoil. It encourages believers to reflect on the implications of their choices and the state of their spiritual lives.

Application for Daily Life

In today's context, this scripture can be applied to remind individuals about the consequences of neglecting their spiritual commitments. It serves as a motivational force for personal and communal faithfulness, urging believers to seek God’s guidance in their decisions.

Related Bible References

• 2 Kings 15:27-31: Details the reign and actions of King Pekah.
• Isaiah 7:1-6: Provides context for the conflict between Israel and Judah during Ahaz's reign.
• 2 Chronicles 29:6-9: Highlights the consequences of forsaking the Lord throughout Israel's history.

Conclusion

The message of 2 Chronicles 28:6 serves as a stark reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God. By understanding this verse through various commentaries, one gains insights into its historical, spiritual, and practical applications. This analysis not only enriches personal Bible study and interpretation but also aids in group discussions and studies, fostering a deeper understanding of Scripture.