2 Chronicles 36 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of 2 Chronicles 36

The Book of 2 Chronicles was likely written by the priest Ezra, who was a scribe and scholar of the Mosaic law. He was tasked with recording the history of the kingdom of Judah, from the reign of King Solomon to the Babylonian exile. The final days of the kingdom of Judah unfold in this chapter as the nation falls under the judgment of God for its persistent disobedience and idolatry. The chapter chronicles the reigns of the last four kings of Judah, each of whom failed to lead the people back to the Lord. The destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, and the exile of the people to Babylon ultimately culminate in the chapter.

This chapter serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. We see how the warnings of the prophets, such as Jeremiah, were fulfilled, and how the people’s refusal to heed the call to repentance led to their downfall. Yet, even in the midst of this tragedy, we catch glimpses of God’s mercy and the promise of restoration, as the chapter concludes with the decree of Cyrus, the Persian king, allowing the exiles to return to their homeland.

2 Chronicles 36:1-4

The verses in 2 Chronicles 36:1-4 focus on King Jehoahaz and his brief reign over Judah. Jehoahaz is depicted as an unfavorable ruler who did evil in the sight of the Lord. He only reigned for three months in Jerusalem before being deposed by the king of Egypt, who replaced him with his brother Jehoiakim.

This passage serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and unfaithfulness to God’s commandments. It highlights the theme of the accountability of leaders before God and the negative impact of their actions on the people they rule over. Jehoahaz’s short reign and subsequent removal symbolize the fleeting nature of earthly power and the importance of righteousness in leadership.

This narrative is consistent with the broader biblical themes of the rise and fall of kingdoms, the judgment of God on disobedient nations, and the need for repentance and obedience to avoid divine punishment. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of kings and nations facing the consequences of their actions, whether through defeat in battles or exile as a result of their sins.

The story of Jehoahaz also serves as a precursor to the exile of Judah to Babylon, which is detailed later in 2 Chronicles. The succession of kings and the unfolding events leading to the exile demonstrate the cyclical pattern of disobedience, judgment, and restoration present throughout the Old Testament. Despite the failure of human leaders, the overarching message is that God remains faithful to His covenant promises and offers a path to redemption for those who turn back to Him. Readers examining the story of Jehoahaz and its wider implications in 2 Chronicles 36 are encouraged to reflect on the importance of leadership that aligns with God’s will, the consequences of sin both individually and corporately, and the hope of restoration through repentance and faithfulness. The tale of Jehoahaz ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of straying from God’s commands and the need for humility and obedience in all aspects of life.

2 Chronicles 36:5-8

A concise yet impactful account of the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah is seen in 2 Chronicles 36:5-8. These verses shed light on the sinful nature of Jehoiakim’s rule and the consequences that befell Judah as a result.

The section begins by highlighting Jehoiakim’s defiance against Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, who had made him swear an oath in God’s name. However, Jehoiakim rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar and stiffened his neck and hardened his heart against turning to the Lord. Jehoiakim led his people down a path of disobedience and rebellion against God’s will by doing so. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of obeying God and the consequences of going against His commands. Proverbs 28:14 states, “Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble. King Jehoiakim’s actions not only displayed his disregard for God but also brought suffering upon the nation of Judah. Nebuchadnezzar sent Babylonian armies to invade Judah as a consequence of Jehoiakim’s rebellion, leading to the loss of lives and destruction in the land. This serves as a stark reminder of the impact that a leader’s choices can have on an entire nation. Biblical examples such as King David and King Solomon demonstrate how a ruler’s obedience or disobedience to God can shape the destiny of the people they lead.

Additionally, the capture of Jehoiakim by Nebuchadnezzar signifies the fulfillment of God’s prophecies through His prophets. The prophet Jeremiah had foretold the judgement that would befall Jehoiakim and the nation of Judah due to their sins and unfaithfulness. This event underscores the importance of heeding the warnings and prophecies delivered by God’s messengers. Throughout the Bible, we see how God uses prophets to communicate His will and warn His people of impending judgement if they do not repent and return to Him. The account of King Jehoiakim in 2 Chronicles 36:5-8 serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience and rebellion against God. It underscores the significance of obedience to God’s commands, the impact of a leader’s actions on a nation, and the fulfillment of God’s prophecies. This narrative serves to remind us of the timeless truth that those who harden their hearts against God’s will will ultimately face the repercussions of their choices while those who humbly submit to God will find His favor and protection.

2 Chronicles 36:9-10

Jehoiachin, also known as Jeconiah or Coniah, becomes king of Judah at the age of eighteen and only reigns for three months and ten days before the king of Babylon deposes him, as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 36:9-10. Jehoiachin is portrayed as an evil king in the eyes of the Lord, following in the footsteps of his father Jehoiakim, who was also condemned for his disobedience. This short-lived reign of Jehoiachin serves as a reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness and disobedience to God’s commandments.

Jehoiachin’s reign marks a turbulent period in the history of Judah, as it signifies the culmination of the nation’s downward spiral into sin and idolatry. The continuous disobedience of the kings of Judah, including Jehoiachin, led to the eventual destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the people to Babylon. This illustrates the principle of reaping what is sown, as the nation faced the consequences of their actions.

The reign of Jehoiachin also sets the stage for the exile of Judah to Babylon, which is a significant event in the history of Israel. The Babylonian exile marked a dark period for the people of Judah, as they were separated from their homeland and faced hardships in a foreign land. However, even in the midst of exile, God remained faithful to His people, as seen in the eventual return of the Israelites to Jerusalem after the decree of Cyrus the Great.

This passage serves as a warning against the dangers of disobedience and the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commandments. It highlights the consequences of turning away from God and following after sinful desires. Despite the shortcomings of the kings of Judah, God’s faithfulness endures, and He continues to work out His plan for the redemption of His people, ultimately fulfilled in the coming of Jesus Christ. The story of Jehoiachin and the Babylonian exile serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and the need for obedience and repentance in order to experience His blessings and protection.

2 Chronicles 36:11-14

The text in 2 Chronicles 36:11-14 describes the reign of King Zedekiah over Judah. Let’s break down this passage into important sections for a closer examination.

1. King Zedekiah ruled over Judah: This section sets the stage for the events that follow. Zedekiah was the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. He was placed on the throne by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon after the Babylonian forces captured Jerusalem and exiled King Jehoiachin, Zedekiah’s nephew. Zedekiah’s reign was marked by political turmoil, rebellion against Babylon, and ultimately, the fall of Jerusalem.

2. Zedekiah did evil in the sight of the Lord: This phrase indicates that Zedekiah, like many of his predecessors, failed to follow the ways of God and instead engaged in sinful practices. His disregard for God’s commandments and his failure to lead the people of Judah in righteousness contributed to the impending judgment and destruction of Judah as a nation.

3. They were unfaithful to the Lord: This section highlights the collective sinfulness of the people of Judah during Zedekiah’s reign. The text suggests that the people as a whole turned away from God, worshipped idols, and engaged in immoral behavior. This widespread disobedience and unfaithfulness to God’s covenant ultimately led to the downfall of the nation and the exile of its people.

4. Until the Lord had sent word by His servants the prophets: Despite the people’s rebellion and unfaithfulness, God, in His mercy, continued to send prophets to warn them of the consequences of their actions and call them to repentance. Throughout the history of Israel and Judah, prophets such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel were sent by God to proclaim His message, urge the people to turn from their wicked ways, and foretell the coming judgment if they did not repent. A recurring theme in the Bible is seen in analyzing this passage: the relationship between obedience and blessing, disobedience and judgment. The story of King Zedekiah and the people of Judah serves as a cautionary tale about the disastrous consequences of turning away from God and choosing to follow sinful ways. It underscores the importance of heeding the warnings of God’s messengers and living in accordance with His commandments.

This passage also emphasizes the enduring faithfulness of God, even in the face of His people’s unfaithfulness. Despite Judah’s repeated failures, God continued to reach out to them through His prophets, offering them a chance to repent and turn back to Him. This highlights God’s unchanging nature of love, mercy, and justice throughout history, pointing to His desire for reconciliation with His people. God promises in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” when connecting this passage to other verses in the Bible.” This assurance of God’s ultimate plan and desire for His people’s well-being stands in stark contrast to the consequences of sin and disobedience illustrated in the story of King Zedekiah and the people of Judah. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty, even in the midst of judgment and exile.

2 Chronicles 36:15-21

1. Verse Breakdown:
2. “The Lord, the God of their ancestors, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling place.” (v. 15)
3. “But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against his people and there was no remedy.” (v. 16)
4. “He brought up against them the king of the Babylonians, who killed their young men with the sword in the sanctuary, and did not spare young men or young women, the elderly or the infirm. God gave them all into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar.” (v. 17)
5. “He carried to Babylon all the articles from the temple of God, both large and small, and the treasures of the Lord’s temple and the treasures of the king and his officials.” (v. 18)
6. “They set fire to God’s temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value there.” (v. 19)
7. “He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his successors until the kingdom of Persia came to power.” (v. 20)

8. “The land enjoyed its sabbath rests; all the time of its desolation it rested, until the seventy years were completed in fulfillment of the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah.” (v. 21)

9. Commentary:

10. The passage highlights the repetitive cycle found throughout the Old Testament of God sending messengers to the people to warn them of their sinful ways and the consequences that would follow if they did not repent. Despite God’s patience and compassion, the people continued to reject His messengers and ultimately faced the consequences of their actions.
11. The reference to the Babylonian invasion led by King Nebuchadnezzar serves as a historical account of the fall of Judah and Jerusalem due to their disobedience. This event marked the destruction of the temple and the exile of the people, fulfilling the prophecies of Jeremiah and other prophets.
12. The exile in Babylon symbolizes a period of punishment and humbling for God’s people. It is a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God, as well as the consequences of turning away from Him.

13. The mention of the land enjoying its sabbath rests reflects the significance of honoring God’s commandments, including the Sabbath rest for the land as outlined in Leviticus 25. The seventy years of desolation also fulfill the prophecy in Jeremiah 25:11-12, emphasizing God’s sovereignty and faithfulness to His word.

14. Interpretation:

15. This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of heeding God’s warnings and instructions. It demonstrates the consequences of persistent disobedience and rejection of God’s messengers. It also highlights the faithfulness of God in executing judgment according to His word.
16. The destruction of the temple and the exile of the people point to the gravity of sin and the need for repentance. It underscores the principle that God does not tolerate unrepentant sin but also shows His mercy in fulfilling His promises of restoration after a period of discipline. The events described in 2 Chronicles 36 resonate with the overarching theme of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness throughout the Bible in a broader sense. It showcases the cyclical nature of sin, judgment, and restoration, underscoring the timeless message of God’s justice and mercy.

2 Chronicles 36:22-23

Verse 22 of 2 Chronicles 36 states, “Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the Lord spoken by the mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying,” This section marks a significant turning point in Jewish history. Cyrus, the king of Persia, was moved by God to allow the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. This fulfillment of the prophecy spoken by Jeremiah demonstrates God’s faithfulness and sovereignty over all nations and rulers. It also serves as a reminder that God can use even those who do not worship Him to carry out His divine plan.

The mention of Jeremiah in this verse highlights the importance of prophets in the Old Testament. Jeremiah was a major prophet who faithfully delivered God’s messages to the people of Judah, warning them of the impending judgment due to their disobedience. His prophecies foretold the Babylonian captivity and the eventual restoration of Judah. Jeremiah’s life and ministry show the importance of speaking the truth, even when it is difficult or unpopular, and the faithfulness of God to fulfill His promises.

Verse 23 continues, “Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, All the kingdoms of the earth hath the Lord God of heaven given me; and he hath charged me to build him an house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you of all his people? The Lord his God be with him, and let him go up.” This declaration by King Cyrus acknowledges the sovereignty of God over all nations and kingdoms. Despite not being a follower of the God of Israel, Cyrus recognizes that it is the Lord who has given him authority and has called for the temple to be rebuilt.

The notion that God can work through pagan rulers to accomplish His purposes is a recurring theme in the Bible. God refers to Cyrus as His anointed in the book of Isaiah (Isaiah 45:1), highlighting how He can raise up and use individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs, to bring about His plans. This serves as a powerful reminder that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and He can use the most unexpected means to achieve His will. This passage from 2 Chronicles 36:22-23 underscores the overarching theme of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness throughout history. It demonstrates that God’s plans cannot be thwarted, and He can use anyone, even foreign kings, to bring about His purposes. The fulfillment of Jeremiah’s prophecy through King Cyrus also highlights the importance of obedience to God’s word and the vital role of prophets in declaring God’s truth to His people.

After 2 Chronicles 36

The people had turned away from God and refused to listen to the prophets he sent. They mocked the messengers of God and despised his words. The Lord became angry with his people and there was no remedy. So he brought the king of the Babylonians against them, who set fire to the temple and carried the people off into exile. The land lay desolate, fulfilling the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, until it had made up for its Sabbath rests.

But the story does not end there. Though the people had turned away, God’s love for them never wavered. He would soon open a door of hope and restoration in his mercy, as we shall see in the next chapter. For the Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. He longs to redeem his people and bring them back to himself. This is the promise we cling to, even in the darkest of times.