Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
2 Chronicles Ch.17 / 36 Ch.s
2CH:17
* Jehoshaphat promotes religion in Judah, His prosperity.
- Jehoshaphat found his people generally very ignorant, and
therefore endeavoured to have them well taught. The public
teaching of the word of God forms, in all ages, the great method
of promoting the power of godliness. Thereby the understanding
is informed, the conscience is awakened and directed. We have a
particular account of Jehoshaphat's prosperity. But it was not
his formidable army that restrained the neighbouring nations
from attempting any thing against Israel, but the fear of God
which fell upon them, when Jehoshaphat reformed his country, and
set up a preaching ministry in it. The ordinances of God are
more the strength and safety of a kingdom, than soldiers and
weapons of war. The Bible requires use to notice the hand of God
in every event, yet this is little regarded. But let all employ
the talents they have: be faithful, even in that which is
little. Set up the worship of God in your houses. The charge of
a family is important. Why should you not instruct them as
Jehoshaphat did his subjects, in the book of the law of the
Lord. But be consistent. Do not recommend one thing, and
practise another. Begin with yourselves. Seek to the Lord God of
Israel, then call upon children and servants to follow your
example.