2 Chronicles 17:10-19 - Homilies By T. Whitelaw

The greatness of Jehoshaphat.

I. JEHOSHAPHAT 'S NEIGHBOURS .

1 . Afraid of his greatness. As on the cities round Jacob and his sons when they fled from Shecham ( Genesis 35:5 ), the terror of Jehovah was on Jehoshaphat's neighbours. Regarding Jehoshaphat as under the protection of Heaven, they hesitated to try conclusions with him on the field of war.

2 . Solicitous of his favor. This some sought by means of gifts. The Philistines brought presents and silver of tribute, or "silver a burden," i.e. a great quantity (Bertheau, Keil); the Arabians offered flocks—7700 he-goats, and 7700 rams.

II. JEHOSHAPHAT 'S BUILDINGS .

1 . Castles, or palaces. Oriental kings commonly attested their magnificence by temple and palace building; e.g. Solomon ( 2 Chronicles 8:1 , etc. ) .

2 . Store-cities. Arsenals or magazines for supplying the garrisons. In them Jehoshaphat had much property (Keil).

III. JEHOSHAPHAT 'S WARRIORS .

1 . Those who served in Jerusalem.

2 . Those who served in Judah. The officers and companies distributed throughout the different garrisons in the land.

Learn:

1 . The influence of true religion even on the wicked.

2 . The superior glory of good character, as compared with great condition.

3 . The dignity implied in being a soldier of Jesus Christ.—W.