Bible Studies for Life Sunday School Lesson for August 25

Bible Studies for Life Sunday School Lesson for August 25

By Roy E. Ciampa, Ph.D.
S. Louis and Ann W. Armstrong Professor of Religion, Samford University

Leave a Legacy
2 Chronicles 17:1–13

Follow the example of godly leaders. (1–6)

Asa’s son Jehoshaphat followed the godly example of his father. 

The ancient manuscripts and translations differ regarding whether the father referenced was King David or Asa (compare translations of 2 Chron. 17:3). 

The point works whether David or Asa is in mind: Jehoshaphat chose to follow the godly example set by David or Asa (or both) rather than follow in the footsteps of the poor example his father Asa had set at the end of his reign. 

He used the opportunities and resources he had to prepare for challenges that were sure to come, and he put his faith not in foreign alliances or pagan idols (like they were doing in the northern kingdom of Israel) but demonstrated his allegiance to the Lord above all. 

He honored the Lord and the Lord brought him honor in return. 

Not only did he keep his heart devoted to the Lord, but he took steps that were appropriate to reduce the temptations to idolatry from within his sphere of influence and authority. 

We all need godly examples to help shape our lives.

Teach others the truth of God’s word. (7–9)

Jehoshaphat’s commitment to the Lord extended to doing whatever he could to provide others with the best understanding possible of the Lord’s teaching and commands. 

Most people were tempted to follow the idolatrous cultural currents of their day. That was partly because they didn’t know any better than what they saw, heard or observed around them. 

Rather than shaping the culture by their obedience to the Lord they would tend to have their lives shaped by the culture and its predominant trends. 

Jehoshaphat drew on all the competent and godly leaders he could in order to carry out his project of providing his people with the knowledge of God’s law they needed. He sent out some capable officials, Levites and priests. 

The fact that they are individually named suggests the honor and importance of the task with which they were entrusted (and recognition of the importance of honoring those who serve well in such influential roles). 

Most of those listed hold names that refer to God (names starting or ending with “el,” short for Elohim “God”) or the Lord (names starting with “Je” or ending with “iah” or “yah,” short for Yahweh). 

These names suggest their parents were dedicated to the Lord (though many unfaithful Israelites had similar kinds of names). For example, Obadiah’s name means “Yahweh’s servant,” Zechariah’s means “Yahweh remembers” and Micaiah’s name means “Who is like Yahweh?” 

These faithful leaders helped Jehoshaphat spread knowledge of the Lord God and of His law throughout the land so others too might know how to honor God with their lives. 

What can we do to help others know God better through the study of His word?

Godly living influences others. (10–13)

Jehoshaphat’s commitment to the Lord and His commands and to providing teaching for the rest of his people won tremendous respect from the surrounding peoples for him, Judah and the Lord. 

Others could see the Lord was acting through Jehoshaphat. And neighboring peoples, rather than rebelling against him, expressed their submission by bringing tribute in various forms. 

Still Jehoshaphat did not become passive due to his confidence in the Lord but demonstrated prudent leadership using the opportunities and resources God gave him to prepare for future challenges. 

Jehoshaphat’s godly example and leadership impacted everyone within his sphere of influence. In what ways do others see Christ in us at work or in our communities?