2 Chronicles 19:6
and said to the judges, “Consider what you do, for you judge not for man but for the LORD. He is with you in giving judgment.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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It's easy to read this and think, "Okay, be fair judges." But notice the shift: the core of their responsibility isn't just about how they judge, but who they're ultimately accountable to. The verse powerfully reminds them that every decision they make is in the very presence of God, who is actively involved and witnessing their work.
After a disastrous military campaign and facing God's rebuke, King Jehoshaphat is returning to Jerusalem. He immediately begins a spiritual and judicial reform, reestablishing a strong system of justice throughout Judah and Jerusalem with appointed judges. This verse, spoken to those judges, underscores the immense responsibility they hold, reminding them that their earthly role is ultimately accountable to God Himself.
Ever feel like your work is just a job, with no higher purpose? King Jehoshaphat reminds us that our tasks, even the difficult ones, are opportunities to serve God.
Jehoshaphat confronts the judges with a powerful truth: their role isn't just about mediating disputes between people. It's about rendering judgment for the LORD.
A Higher Standard
This shifts the entire perspective. When we work for God, our motivations change. We're not just trying to please our boss, colleagues, or even the people we serve. We are accountable to the One who sees all things and knows all hearts. This means:
Imagine a boss who not only watches your every move but is right there with you, helping you make the right call. That's the picture painted here!
The second part of Jehoshaphat's statement is incredibly encouraging: 'He is with you in giving judgment.' This isn't a threat; it's a promise of divine support and a reminder of divine oversight.
What 'He is with you' Means:
Understand the original words
shophetim · Hebrew Noun
Refers to those authorized to act as arbiters, settling disputes according to the Law of God and rendering verdicts based on divine standards. They act as representatives of God's justice on earth.
YHWH · Hebrew Noun
The eternal Creator and covenant God of Israel who is sovereign over all human affairs and the ultimate standard of truth and justice.
Jehoshaphat's judicial reforms occurred within the context of a divided kingdom and his own past mistakes, highlighting the need for righteous governance that honors God above all.
c. 931 BC
Division of the Kingdom
Following Solomon's death, the united Kingdom of Israel split into two: the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and the Southern Kingdom (Judah). This division often led to political instability and conflict.
c. 870-848 BC
Reign of Jehoshaphat
Jehoshaphat became king of Judah. He initially made an alliance with the wicked King Ahab of Israel, but later sought to reform religious and judicial practices in Judah.
c. 850 BC
Alliance with Israel
Jehoshaphat allied with King Ahab of Israel, marrying his son Jehoram to Ahab's daughter Athaliah. This alliance brought Judah into closer contact with the idolatry and corruption of the Northern Kingdom.
c. 848 BC— this verse
Jehoshaphat's Reforms
After warning by the prophet Jehu, Jehoshaphat intensified his reforms, sending out officials, priests, and Levites to teach the Law throughout Judah. He also reorganized the judiciary.
This passage echoes the same principle, reminding leaders not to revile God, highlighting the sacredness of their authority and the divine oversight involved in their judgments.
Deuteronomy 1:17This verse directly instructs judges to show no partiality, emphasizing that judgment belongs to God, a foundational concept for righteous leadership that 2 Chronicles 19:6 expands upon.
Proverbs 16:10-12These verses speak to the divine aspect of kingly authority and righteous judgment, underscoring that true justice originates from God and should be reflected in the pronouncements of rulers.
Ecclesiastes 12:14This verse provides a solemn reminder that every deed, including acts of judgment, will be brought into account before God, reinforcing the weight of responsibility mentioned in 2 Chronicles.
It's easy to read this and think, "Okay, be fair judges." But notice the shift: the core of their responsibility isn't just about how they judge, but who they're ultimately accountable to. The verse powerfully reminds them that every decision they make is in the very presence of God, who is actively involved and witnessing their work.
After a disastrous military campaign and facing God's rebuke, King Jehoshaphat is returning to Jerusalem. He immediately begins a spiritual and judicial reform, reestablishing a strong system of justice throughout Judah and Jerusalem with appointed judges. This verse, spoken to those judges, underscores the immense responsibility they hold, reminding them that their earthly role is ultimately accountable to God Himself.
After a disastrous military campaign and facing God's rebuke, King Jehoshaphat is returning to Jerusalem. He immediately begins a spiritual and judicial reform, reestablishing a strong system of justice throughout Judah and Jerusalem with appointed judges. This verse, spoken to those judges, underscores the immense responsibility they hold, reminding them that their earthly role is ultimately accountable to God Himself.
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c. 848 BC
Appointment of Judges
Jehoshaphat established a new judicial system with a high court in Jerusalem and regional courts throughout the land. He appointed judges, emphasizing the divine authority behind their rulings.
"and said to the judges, “Consider what you do, for you judge not for man but for the LORD. He is with you in giving judgment." — It's easy to read this and think, "Okay, be fair judges." But notice the shift: the core of their responsibility isn't just about how they judge, but who they're ultimately accountable to. The ve…
