1 Ahaz was twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. And he did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord, as his father David had done,
2 He did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord, as his father David had done,
3 and made offerings in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom and burned his sons as an offering, according to the abominations of the nations whom the Lord drove out before the people of Israel.
4 And he sacrificed and made offerings on the high places and on the hills and under every green tree.
5 Therefore the Lord his God gave him into the hand of the king of Syria, who defeated him and took captive a great number of his people and brought them to Damascus. He was also given into the hand of the king of Israel, who struck him with great force.
6 For Pekah the son of Remaliah killed 120,000 from Judah in one day, all of them men of valor, because they had forsaken the Lord, the God of their fathers.
7 And Zichri, a mighty man of Ephraim, killed Maaseiah the king’s son, and Azrikam the commander of the palace, and Elkanah the second to the king.
8 The men of Israel took captive 200,000 of their relatives, women, sons, and daughters. They also took much spoil from them and brought the spoil to Samaria.
9 But a prophet of the Lord was there, whose name was Oded, and he went out to meet the army that came to Samaria and said to them, “Behold, because the Lord, the God of your fathers, was angry with Judah, he gave them into your hand, but you have killed them in a rage that has reached up to heaven.
10 And now you intend to subjugate the people of Judah and Jerusalem, male and female, as your slaves. Have you not sins of your own against the Lord your God?
11 Now hear me, and send back the captives from your relatives whom you have taken, for the fierce wrath of the Lord is upon you.”
12 Then the men who were mentioned by name rose and took the captives, and with the spoil they clothed all who were naked among them. They clothed them, gave them sandals, provided them with food and drink, and anointed them, and carrying all the feeble among them on donkeys, they brought them to their kinsfolk at Jericho, the city of palm trees. Then they returned to Samaria.
13 and said to them, “You shall not bring the captives in here, for you propose to bring upon us guilt against the Lord in addition to our present sins and guilt. For our guilt is already great, and there is fierce wrath against Israel.”
14 And the men who have been mentioned by name rose and took the captives, and with the spoil they clothed all who were naked among them. They clothed them, gave them sandals, provided them with food and drink, and anointed them, and carrying all the feeble among them on donkeys, they brought them to their kinsfolk at Jericho, the city of palm trees. Then they returned to Samaria.
15 And the men who have been mentioned by name rose and took the captives, and with the spoil they clothed all who were naked among them. They clothed them, gave them sandals, provided them with food and drink, and anointed them, and carrying all the feeble among them on donkeys, they brought them to their kinsfolk at Jericho, the city of palm trees. Then they returned to Samaria.
16 At that time King Ahaz sent to the king of Assyria for help.
17 For again the Edomites had come and struck Judah and carried away captives.
18 And the Philistines had made raids on the cities in the Shephelah and the Negeb of Judah, and had taken Beth-shemesh, Aijalon, Gederoth, Soco with its villages, Timnah with its villages, and Gimzo with its villages, and they settled there.
19 For the Lord humbled Judah because of Ahaz king of Israel, for he had made Judah act sinfully and had been very unfaithful to the Lord.
20 So Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came against him and afflicted him instead of strengthening him.
21 For Ahaz took a portion from the house of the Lord and the house of the king and of the princes, and gave tribute to the king of Assyria, but it did not help him.
22 In the time of his distress he became yet more faithless to the Lord—this same King Ahaz.
23 For he sacrificed to the gods of Damascus that had defeated him and said, “Because the gods of the kings of Syria helped them, I will sacrifice to them that they may help me.” But they were the ruin of him and of all Israel.
24 And Ahaz gathered together the vessels of the house of God and cut in pieces the vessels of the house of God, and he shut up the doors of the house of the Lord, and he made himself altars in every corner of Jerusalem.
25 In every city of Judah he made high places to make offerings to other gods, provoking the Lord, the God of his fathers.
26 Now the rest of his acts and all his ways, from first to last, behold, they are written in the Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel.
27 And Ahaz slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city, in Jerusalem, for they did not bring him into the tombs of the kings of Israel. And Hezekiah his son reigned in his place.
The True Meaning of 2 Chronicles 28
The Book of 2 Chronicles was written by an anonymous author, likely a Levite priest or scribe, who compiled historical accounts of the kingdom of Judah after the reign of King David. This chapter focuses on the reign of King Ahaz, a wicked ruler who led the people of Judah astray and brought great suffering upon them. Ahaz’s idolatry and disobedience to God result in the consequences witnessed in this passage. His actions would ultimately pave the way for the Assyrian invasion and the eventual downfall of the kingdom of Judah, as foreshadowed in the prophecies of Isaiah (Isaiah 7:17-25). The chapter also highlights the importance of repentance and the need for godly leadership, a theme that echoes throughout the books of Kings and Chronicles. As we delve into this chapter, Ahaz’s choices not only impacted his own life but also had far-reaching consequences for the people of Judah. The events described here serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of following God’s commands and the consequences of turning away from Him.
2 Chronicles 28:1-4
King Ahaz of Judah’s reign is described in 2 Chronicles 28:1-4. The verse starts by saying, “Ahaz was twenty years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years.” This indicates that Ahaz was a relatively young king when he came to power. Despite his youth, Ahaz’s reign was marked by unfaithfulness to the Lord. The verse continues to point out, “He did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord, as his father David had done.” This comparison to David, who was known as a man after God’s own heart, highlights the severity of Ahaz’s disobedience and departure from the righteous ways of the Lord.
King Ahaz’s actions included walking in the ways of the kings of Israel, which involved making idols and even sacrificing his own sons in the fire, following the abominable practices of the nations that the Lord had driven out before the Israelites. This drastic departure from God’s commands and leading the people of Judah into idolatry was a grave sin that provoked the Lord’s anger. It is a poignant reminder of the influence and impact that leaders can have on the spiritual direction of a nation. Ahaz’s choices led the people astray and incurred divine wrath upon the nation.
This passage serves as a sobering lesson on the consequences of abandoning God’s ways and embracing sinful practices. It underscores the importance of leadership that is in alignment with God’s will and the profound effects it can have on a nation and its people. David, who, though not perfect, was known for his repentant heart and desire to follow God faithfully, provides an example in contrast to Ahaz’s disobedience. It underscores the enduring message throughout the Bible that obedience to God brings blessings, while disobedience leads to dire consequences. This narrative also sets the stage for the need for a Savior, as it became evident that human kings could not lead the people in perfect righteousness. Through Jesus Christ, the perfect and sinless King, humanity finds redemption and restoration.
2 Chronicles 28:5-8
King Ahaz of Judah committed sins against God, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 28:5-8. The passage reads, “Therefore the Lord his God delivered him into the hand of the king of Aram. The Arameans defeated him and took many of his people as prisoners and brought them to Damascus. He was also given into the hands of the king of Israel, who inflicted heavy casualties on him. Pekah son of Remaliah killed a hundred and twenty thousand soldiers in Judah in one day because Judah had forsaken the Lord, the God of their ancestors. Zikri, an Ephraimite warrior, killed Maaseiah the king’s son, Azrikam the officer in charge of the palace, and Elkanah, second to the king. The men of Israel took captive from their fellow Israelites who were from Judah two hundred thousand wives, sons and daughters. They also took a great deal of plunder, which they carried back to Samaria.”
This passage is a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and walking in disobedience and sin. King Ahaz’s disobedience led to devastating defeats for the kingdom of Judah at the hands of the king of Aram and the king of Israel. The loss of a hundred and twenty thousand soldiers in one day, along with the capture of two hundred thousand women and children, illustrates the severity of the punishment that befell Judah due to their faithlessness.
The key message conveyed here is that actions have consequences, especially when those actions involve turning away from God and His commandments. Throughout the Bible, we see this theme reiterated time and time again. God cannot be mocked; do not be deceived, as it says in Galatians 6:7. A man reaps what he sows.” This principle holds true in the case of King Ahaz and the people of Judah. Their disregard for God’s laws led to their defeat and suffering.
Furthermore, the mention of specific individuals like Pekah son of Remaliah and Zikri serves to highlight the human cost of disobedience. These individuals, acting as instruments of God’s judgment, were used to bring about the consequences of Judah’s sin. This underscores the biblical principle that God often uses various means to fulfill His purposes and bring about justice. 2 Chronicles 28:5-8 serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God. It warns us of the grave consequences of turning away from Him and the ultimate price that may be paid as a result. The passage reinforces the timeless message that God is just and that His righteousness will prevail, even in the face of human sin and disobedience.
2 Chronicles 28:9-15
The verses in 2 Chronicles 28:9-15 outline an important moment in the history of Judah. King Ahaz of Judah was facing a threat from the northern kingdom of Israel, led by King Pekah. The Northern Kingdom of Israel and Syria had formed an alliance against Judah, aiming to conquer and plunder the land. King Ahaz sought help by reaching out to the Assyrian Empire for assistance in fear, rather than relying on the Lord.
The prophet Oded then confronted the men of Israel who were returning the Judahite captives they had taken. Oded challenged them with the message that the Lord was against them for their treatment of their brothers, the people of Judah. He urged them to release their captives and return them to Judah, lest the wrath of God fall upon them. This act of kindness towards the prisoners captured the hearts of the northern soldiers, and they clothed the captives, provided them with food and drink, and even helped the weak among them on their journey back home.
This passage carries several timeless messages that resonate throughout the Bible. Firstly, it highlights the importance of compassion, even towards enemies or those who have wronged us. The soldiers of Israel, upon hearing the words of the prophet, showed mercy and kindness to their captives, exemplifying the principles of forgiveness and humanity. Moreover, it emphasizes the consequences of seeking help from worldly powers instead of turning away from the Lord. King Ahaz’s decision to seek aid from the Assyrians rather than trusting in God led to further turmoil and challenges for Judah. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of relying on human strength and wisdom over divine guidance. This event in the broader context of the Bible also points to the themes of redemption and restoration. Despite the divisions and conflicts between the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, there was still room for repentance and reconciliation. The actions of the soldiers in returning the captives signify the possibility of reconciliation and the mercy of God, even in the midst of strife and enmity.
This event also echoes the principles of loving one’s enemies and doing good to those who persecute you, as taught by Jesus in the New Testament (Matthew 5:44). The soldiers of Israel, by showing kindness to their captives, demonstrated a form of enemy-love that transcends animosity and leads to reconciliation. These verses from 2 Chronicles 28 offer valuable lessons on compassion, repentance, and the consequences of turning away from God. They remind us of the power of forgiveness, mercy, and the importance of seeking divine help in times of trouble.
2 Chronicles 28:16-21
An account of the aftermath of King Ahaz’s sinful reign over Judah is seen in 2 Chronicles 28:16-21. The verse begins by highlighting that the Edomites, a neighboring tribe, had invaded Judah during Ahaz’s reign and captured many people. This invasion was a consequence of Ahaz’s wickedness and turning away from God, which left Judah vulnerable to attack. The capturing of Judah’s people by the Edomites signifies the consequences of sin and disobedience, showing how the actions of a leader can affect the entire nation.
The men of Judah, under the leadership of King Ahaz, were able to rescue their fellow countrymen from the Edomites. This act of bravery and unity among the people of Judah shows that even in the face of adversity caused by their own king’s actions, there is still hope and the possibility of redemption through collective effort and faithfulness to God. It is a reminder that God can work through His people to bring about deliverance and restoration even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Furthermore, a prophet named Oded confronted the returning warriors and reminded them of the Lord’s presence and the need to show mercy and compassion towards their fellow Israelites who were taken as captives. Oded’s words serve as a rebuke and a call to repentance, urging the people of Judah to acknowledge their sins and seek forgiveness and reconciliation with God. This episode underscores the importance of heeding the voice of prophets and staying aligned with God’s moral principles, even in times of victory or conflict.
The leaders of Ephraim, another tribe of Israel, supported the returning warriors by providing them with clothing from the plunder they had seized. This act of generosity and solidarity among the tribes of Israel showcases the unity and mutual assistance that should exist among God’s people. It parallels the biblical theme of supporting and caring for one another, as emphasized in verses like Galatians 6:2, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. This passage from 2 Chronicles 28 paints a picture of the consequences of sin, the possibility of redemption through united efforts, the importance of heeding prophetic guidance, and the significance of showing compassion and support towards one another within the community of believers. It serves as a timeless reminder of the power of repentance, unity, and compassion in the face of adversity and the importance of staying faithful to God’s commandments and teachings.
2 Chronicles 28:22-25
King Ahaz of Judah’s reign is glimpsed in 2 Chronicles 28:22-25. Let’s break down these verses for a deeper understanding. King Ahaz became even more unfaithful to the Lord in the time of his distress, as stated in verse 22.” This is a poignant moment as it showcases Ahaz’s response to difficulties. Instead of turning to God for help and guidance in times of trouble, Ahaz drifts further away from the Lord. This highlights the danger of allowing challenges to lead us astray and the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith, especially during trials. It serves as a warning for us to not let hardships become stumbling blocks in our relationship with God.
The verse continues to reveal that King Ahaz continued to offer sacrifices to the gods of Damascus, which had defeated him. This action not only displays Ahaz’s unfaithfulness but also his desperation. Despite experiencing defeat at the hands of the gods of Damascus, Ahaz turns to them in a misguided attempt to seek help. This illustrates the futility of turning to false idols and the consequences of straying from God’s commandments. It serves as a reminder for us to trust in the one true God and not to seek solace in worldly or false beliefs. Ahaz also abandoned the Lord’s temple and closed its doors, as mentioned in verse 23. This act of neglect and disregard for the sacred place of worship symbolizes Ahaz’s complete departure from God. Ahaz effectively shut out God from his life and leadership by closing the doors of the temple. This is a stark example of the consequences of willful disobedience and the rejection of God’s presence. It emphasizes the importance of honoring and upholding places of worship as a vital aspect of spiritual life and community. The leaders of the people step in to address the spiritual decline under Ahaz’s rule as the narrative unfolds in verse 24. The leaders of Judah take action by capturing Ahaz’s son, Hezekiah, and making him king in his father’s place. This transition of power signifies a pivotal moment of hope and restoration amidst the reign of apostasy. Hezekiah’s ascension to the throne sets the stage for a new chapter of repentance, revival, and return to the ways of the Lord. It highlights the principle of divine intervention and the potential for renewal even in the darkest of times. These verses from 2 Chronicles 28 ultimately encapsulate a powerful message about faithfulness, repentance, and the consequences of straying from God. The narrative of King Ahaz serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the destructive outcomes of unfaithfulness and the importance of remaining steadfast in our devotion to the Lord. Through the contrast between Ahaz’s rebellion and Hezekiah’s restoration, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and the opportunity for redemption when we turn back to Him. These timeless lessons resonate across generations, urging us to trust in God’s sovereignty, seek His presence wholeheartedly, and walk in obedience to His word.
2 Chronicles 28:26-27
King Ahaz, the ruler of Judah at the time, is described briefly but poignantly in 2 Chronicles 28:26-27. This passage states, “Ahaz was twenty years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. Unlike David his father, he did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He followed the ways of the kings of Israel and also made idols for worshiping the Baals. He aroused the anger of the Lord, the God of his ancestors.”
This section of the verse paints a stark contrast between Ahaz and his ancestor David. David was known as a man after God’s own heart, who sought to follow the ways of the Lord and uphold His commandments. On the other hand, Ahaz chose to walk in the ways of the pagan kings of Israel, leading his people astray from the worship of the one true God. This departure from the path of righteousness brought about the displeasure and anger of the Lord upon Ahaz and the people of Judah.
Ahaz’s reign was marked by idolatry and disobedience to God’s commands. He not only worshipped false gods but also sacrificed his own children in the fire, following detestable practices of the nations around Judah. This blatant disregard for the Lord’s statutes resulted in disastrous consequences for the kingdom. Ahaz’s actions led to Judah’s defeat in battle, loss of territory, and ultimately brought about the decline of the kingdom.
This passage serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the consequences of straying from God’s ways. It underscores the importance of remaining faithful to the Lord and obeying His commands. Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of the repercussions of idolatry and disobedience, further emphasizing the need for wholehearted devotion to God. Proverbs 14:12 echoes this sentiment, stating, “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death. Leadership and its impact on a nation are significant reminders in the story of Ahaz. We, as leaders, are called to set an example, guiding others in righteousness and obedience to God. Ahaz’s legacy stands as a stark warning of the perils of turning away from the Lord and the importance of seeking His will in all aspects of life.
After 2 Chronicles 28
The chapter concludes with the tragic end of King Ahaz. He had turned away from the Lord, leading the people of Judah into sin and idolatry. His enemies defeated Ahaz in his final days, and he died a broken man.
Yet, even in the darkest of times, the Lord’s mercy and grace remained. The stage was now set for a new king to rise, one who would lead the people back to the true and living God. The Lord’s hand continued to guide the nation of Judah, even when all seemed lost as we turned the page to the next chapter. For the Lord’s love endures forever, and His plans cannot be thwarted.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.