Abijah: The Chronicles of Judah
2 Chronicles is a book rich in history and spiritual lessons. Written around 450 BC, it recounts the journey of the Jewish people during a time of division, exile, and return. Let’s explore some key points and how they relate to our lives today.
The author of 2 Chronicles is often thought to be Ezra, a priestly scholar who had access to various sources. The writing style is similar to the book of Ezra, and the closing verses of 2 Chronicles match the opening verses of Ezra. The book was written after the Jews returned from Babylonian exile, as it mentions King Cyrus of Persia's proclamation allowing them to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 36:22-23).
Unlike the histories of other ancient empires that only recorded their triumphs, the Jewish record includes both their successes and failures. 2 Chronicles was written to remind the Jewish people of their past mistakes and to encourage them to remain faithful to God. Ezra wanted them to remember their resilience in the face of oppression, and that they could maintain their identity even without a king of David's lineage.
Lessons from King Abijah
In 2 Chronicles 13, we encounter King Abijah of Judah. Though he was considered an evil king, he made a powerful stand against Jeroboam, the ruler of the northern kingdom of Israel. Outnumbered 2 to 1, Abijah and his army relied on God, reminding Jeroboam of the "covenant of salt" — a symbol of a permanent, unbreakable agreement with God.
Abijah's speech shows us the importance of trusting in God over human substitutes. Jeroboam had set up golden calves for idol worship, leading the people astray. This was a rejection of God, something Abijah pointed out with his declaration of faith in the Lord.
Who Do You Trust?
This chapter challenges us to consider where we place our trust. Do we rely on political systems, military strength, or our own achievements to keep us safe and successful? Or do we place our trust in the Lord, who never fails and is always faithful?
In times of crisis, our response often reveals our true source of trust. Like Abijah, we need to be prepared to trust in God even when the odds are against us. This trust is not something we develop overnight; it comes from daily practicing our faith, reading scripture, and building a relationship with God.
The "Payback Principle"
2 Chronicles introduces a concept known as the "law of retribution" or the "payback principle." This principle suggests that those who are faithful to God will be blessed, while those who turn away will face consequences. However, this isn't a guarantee for an easy life. We see in other parts of the Bible, like the story of Job, that sometimes the wicked prosper, and the faithful suffer.
The payback principle is more like a proverb than a promise — a general truth rather than an absolute. It teaches us that while faithfulness often leads to blessings, it doesn't mean we are immune to life's challenges.
Jesus and the Payback Principle
Jesus changes the payback principle. In a world that deserves judgment for its sins, Jesus offers grace. He takes on the punishment we deserve, paying our moral debt so that we can receive forgiveness and eternal life. This is the ultimate act of divine love and mercy, and it is why we worship him.
Trusting in God means being faithful each day, knowing that his faithfulness will always remain. Life may not always go as we plan, but God’s presence and promises are unchanging. Remember, the greatest expression of God's faithfulness is found in Jesus, who paid the ultimate price so we could be free.
Let this be a reminder to trust in God, not just in times of crisis, but every day. He is the one who remains steadfast, even when everything else fails.
Blog adapted from September 15, 2024, message by Minister Mark Ashton