2 Crônicas 9

2 Crônicas 9

SECOND CHRONICLES The Kingdom of Israel From Splendor to Disaster Splendor Disaster King Solomon of Judah 2 Chronicles 1-9 Successive Kings of Judah 2Chr 10-36 Kingdom United Kingdom Divided 2Chr 10:1-19 Rulers of the Southern Kingdom of Judah After the Split The Exile of Judah 2Chr 36:17-23 Inaugural 2Chr 1:1-17 Solomon's Temple 2Chr 2:1-7:22 Solomon's Glory 2Chr 8:1-9:31 Building of the Temple Decline & Destruction of the Temple Temple Destroyed ~40 Years ~393 Years Chart from Jensen's Survey of the OT - used by permission Click Chart from Charles Swindoll TIMELINE OF THE BOOKS OF SAMUEL, KINGS & CHRONICLES 1107 1011 971 931 853 722 586 1Samuel 2 Samuel 1Kings 1Kings 2 Kings 31 1-4 5-10 11-20 21-24 1-11 12-22 1-17 18-25 1 Chronicles 10 1Chr 11-19 1Chr 20-29 2 Chronicles 1-9 2 Chronicles 10-20 2 Chronicles 21-36 Legend: B.C. dates at top of timeline are approximate. Note that 931BC marks the division of the Kingdom into Southern Tribes (Judah and Benjamin) and Ten Northern Tribes. To avoid confusion be aware that after the division of the Kingdom in 931BC, the Southern Kingdom is most often designated in Scripture as "Judah" and the Northern Kingdom as "Israel." Finally, note that 1 Chronicles 1-9 is not identified on the timeline because these chapters are records of genealogy. NOTE: THESE COMMENTS ARE OFFERED IN AN "AS IS" FORMAT - IF I HAVE TIME IN THE FUTURE, THEY WILL BE UPDATED. CLICK 2 CHRONICLES COMMENTARIES FOR MULTIPLE SERMONS AND COMMENTARIES 2 Chronicles 9:1 Now when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to Jerusalem to test Solomon with difficult questions. She had a very large retinue, with camels carrying spices and a large amount of gold and precious stones; and when she came to Solomon, she spoke with him about all that was on her heart. And when: 1Ki 10:1,2-13 Mt 12:42 Lu 11:31 Sheba: Ge 10:7,28 25:3 fame: 2Ch 1:1,12 1Ki 4:31 questions: Ps 49:4 78:2 Pr 1:6 Mt 13:11,35 camels: Ps 72:10,15 Isa 60:6 spices: 2Ch 9:9 Mt 2:11 communed: 1Sa 1:15 Ps 142:2 Mt 12:34 See BELOW FOR BIBLIOGRAPHY FOR 1-2 CHRONICLES - adapted from Paul Apple's Bible Outlines See Red Marker for Possible Location of Sheba QUEEN OF SHEBA CHECKS OUT SOLOMON Now when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to Jerusalem to test Solomon with difficult questions. She had a very large retinue, with camels carrying spices and a large amount of gold and precious stones; and when she came to Solomon, she spoke with him about all that was on her heart. - SEE COMMENTARY on parallel passage in 1 Kings 10:1-2 August Konkel: Two of Solomon’s international contacts are described in great detail: Hiram to the north and the queen of Sheba to the south. Hiram had a treaty with Solomon that provided for long-term economic and political security. The Chronicler shows the extent of Solomon’s empire by discussing his activities in the most northern and southern borders. (See 1 & 2 Chronicles) Andrew Hill: This entire chapter (ch. 9) balances the opening chapter (ch. 1) in that God has honored Solomon’s obedience in giving the wealth accumulated by David to the building of the temple by restoring wealth to the monarchy through trade and gifts from other nations. The story also illustrates the key themes of the larger literary unit (2Ch 9:1–9), namely, Solomon’s wisdom, wealth, and fame—all gifts from God. For example, Solomon petitioned God for wisdom and was blessed with promises of wealth and fame as well (2Ch 1:11–12). As a result of her visit with King Solomon, the Queen of Sheba testifies of Solomon’s unsurpassed wisdom (2Ch 9:5) and contributes to Solomon’s wealth with lavish gifts of gold, spices, and gemstones (2Ch 9:9). Beyond this, the queen bears witness to the fact that Solomon’s wisdom and wealth are the result of God’s blessing on the king and his love for the nation of Israel (2Ch 9:8). (See 1 and 2 Chronicles - Page 70 Martin Selman: This section concludes the record of Solomon’s achievements (chs 8-9) by concentrating on Solomon’s international relationships, in contrast to the Israelite setting of the previous one. Two striking examples of Solomon’s dealings with foreign rulers, one from the north and the other form the south, introduce a more general account of Solomon’s reputation among the kings of the earth (cf. v. 23). (See 2 Chronicles: An Introduction and Commentary - Page 366) John Olley: The Chronicler’s narrating of the reigns of David and Solomon has highlighted the importance of the temple and its worship as the foundation for God’s people to enjoy security and prosperity. While the Kings account portrays some of the ambiguities of Solomon’s reign, including his material prosperity (in keeping with an overall narrative that addresses reasons for the exile and the way forward), Chronicles provides a vision of what God intends for his people when they follow him wholeheartedly. It illustrates God’s desire to bless, with lasting blessing inseparable from loyal worship. It foreshadows the words of Christ, who, after summarizing what “the Gentiles [“nations”] seek”—matters of food, drink, and clothing (and all that is required to provide these)—proclaims, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:31–33; cf. Luke 12:29–31). Some believers may experience foretaste of material blessings in this present life (although NT passages more often warn of opposition and persecution), but the vision of the new creation is one of luxurious plenty, a place “in which righteousness dwells” (Revelation 21–22; 2 Pet. 3:13). (See ESV Expository Commentary: 1 Samuel–2 Chronicles) Raymond Dillard: The visit of the queen of Sheba is described as a wisdom encounter and emphasizes the admiration of a gentile ruler for the wealth and wisdom of Solomon. While a firsthand observation of Solomon’s wisdom might have been worth the arduous and hazardous journey across 1,400 miles of desert from ancient Saba (roughly modern Yemen), commercial interests were probably the more basic motivation. The economy of ancient Saba was built on trade in frankincense and myrrh. Access to sea trade through Tyre (Ezek 27:22–23) to the Mediterranean world required passage through Solomon’s monopoly on the overland routes; negotiations with him concerning the trade in these aromatic resins would have been worthy of the queen’s attention. Solomon’s own naval operations to the south, references to which bracket the narrative of the queen’s visit (2Chr 8:17–18; 9:10–11), may have prompted her trip; the joint maritime ventures of Solomon and Hiram may have been cutting into the queen’s overland routes. (See 2 Chronicles, Volume 15 - Page 71) J.A. Thompson: The Chronicler probably wished to make the general point that as Solomon readily gave his resources to build the temple, so now he was rewarded abundantly with God's gifts to him as well as the esteem of the nations. Also just as David prospered because he established correct religious priorities, causing the nation Israel to prosper, so under Solomon with his building of the temple the whole nation prospered. By contrast Saul brought disaster on Israel because of his own carelessness in religious matters. (See 1, 2 Chronicles: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition) Frederick Mabie: The visit and subsequent declarations of the Queen of Sheba showcase God’s blessing on David’s son, most notably in the areas of wisdom and wealth. The location of Sheba is identified with ancient Saba, a trading depot located in the vicinity of modern Yemen in the south of the Arabian peninsula, some 1,400 to 1,500 miles from Jerusalem. Sheba was famous for its wares, spice caravans, and trading skill. In addition, Sheba was noted in extrabiblical sources as having female rulers, as reflected here. The southern provinces of Arabia were noted for species of trees and shrubs whose aromatic resin was used to produce a number of spices, gums, and balms. (See The Expositor's Bible Commentary: 1 Chronicles-Job - Page 197) Andrew Hill on with camels carrying spices - These aromatic resins (whether in the form of powder, solid sticks, or oil) were prized possessions and enjoyed wide use in the biblical world in cosmetics, embalming, religious offerings, and pharmacopeia. Frankincense was an ingredient in the mixture of spices burned on the altar of incense in worship (Ex. 30:34); it accompanied the grain offerings (Lev. 2:1–2, 15–16) and was placed with the loaves on the table of the Presence as well (Lev. 24:7). Myrrh was an essential ingredient in the sacred anointing oil used to sanctify objects and persons in Hebrew worship (Ex. 30:23). The pleasant odor, high demand, and restricted sources of these perfumes made them expensive commodities in the ancient times. Myrrh was also used in burial (cf. Mark 16:1; John 19:39). The value of these ointments, often classified with gemstones and gold, made them appropriate gifts for royalty—including the infant Jesus (Matt. 2:11). (See 1 and 2 Chronicles - Page 71) MATTHEW HENRY - Chapter: 9 Solomon here continues to appear great both at home and abroad. We had this account of his grandeur, 1 Ki. 10. Nothing is here added; but his defection towards his latter end, which we have there (ch. 11), is here omitted, and the close of this chapter brings him to the grave with an unstained reputation. Perhaps none of the chapters in the Chronicles agree so much with a chapter in the Kings as this does with 1 Ki. 10 verse for verse, only that the first two verses there are put into one here, and verse 25 here is taken from 1 Ki. 4:26, and the last three verses here from 1 Ki. 11:41-43. Here is, I. The honour which the queen of Sheba did to Solomon, in the visit she made him to hear his wisdom (v. 1-12). II. Many instances given of the riches and splendour of Solomon's court (v. 13-28). III. The conclusion of his reign (v. 29-31). 2Chr 9:1-12 This passage of story had been largely considered in the Kings; yet, because our Saviour has proposed it as an example to us in our enquiries after him (Mt. 12:42), we must not pass it over without observing briefly, 1. Those who honour God he will honour, 1 Sa. 2:30. Solomon had greatly honoured God, in building, beautifying, and dedicating the temple; all his wisdom and all his wealth were employed for the making of that a consummate piece: and now God made his wisdom and wealth to redound greatly to his reputation. The way to have both the credit and comfort of all our endowments and all our enjoyments is to consecrate them to God and use them for him. 2. Those who know the worth of true wisdom will grudge no pains nor cost to obtain it. The queen of Sheba put herself to a great deal of trouble and expense to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and yet, learning from him to serve God and do her duty, she thought herself well paid for her pains. Heavenly wisdom is that pearl of great price which is a good bargain to purchase by parting with all that we have. 3. As every man has received the gift so he ought to minister the same for the edification of others, as he has opportunity. Solomon was communicative of his wisdom and willing to teach others what he knew himself. Being taught of God, freely he had received, and freely he gave. Let those that are rich in wisdom, as well as wealth, learn to do good and be ready to distribute. Give to every one that asketh. 4. Good order in a family, a great family, especially in the things of God, and a regular discharge of the duties of religious worship, are highly expedient, and to be much admired wherever found. The queen of Sheba was exceedingly affected to see the propriety with which Solomon's servants attended him and with which both he and they attended in the house of God. David's ascent to the house of the Lord was also pleasant and interesting, Ps. 42:4. 5. Those are happy who have the opportunity of a constant converse with such as are knowing, wise, and good. The queen of Sheba thought Solomon's servants happy who continually heard his wisdom; for, it seems, even to them he was communicative. And it is observable that the posterity of those who had places in his court were willing to have the names of their ancestors forgotten, and thought themselves sufficiently distinguished and dignified when they were called the children of Solomon's servants (Ezra 2:55; Neh. 7:57); so eminent were they that it was honour enough to be named from them. 6. We ought to rejoice and give God thanks for the gifts, graces, and usefulness, of others. The queen of Sheba blessed God for the honour he put upon Solomon, and the favour he did to Israel, in advancing him to the throne, v. 8. By giving God the praise of the prosperity of others, we share in the comfort of it; whereas, by envying the prosperity of others, we lose the comfort even of our own. The happiness of both king and kingdom she traces up to the fountain of all bliss, the divine favour: it was because thy God delighted in thee and because he loved Israel. Those mercies are doubly sweet in which we can taste the kindness and good will of God as our God. 7. It becomes those that are wise and good to be generous according to their place and power. The queen of Sheba was so to Solomon, Solomon was so to her, v. 9, 12. They both knew how to value wisdom, and therefore were neither of them covetous of their money, but cultivated the acquaintance and confirmed the friendship they had contracted by mutual presents. Our Lord Jesus has promised to give us all our desire: Ask, and it shall be given you. Let us study what we shall render to him, and not think any thing too much to do, or suffer, or part with, for him. QUESTION - Who was the Queen of Sheba? ANSWER - The Queen of Sheba, according to the biblical narrative, was a woman of great wealth, beauty, and power. Sheba, believed to be either in Ethiopia or Yemen by most biblical scholars, was a well-established city, and, although there is little evidence outside the Bible as to the nature of the monarchy and how it was established, it is clear that the Queen of Sheba ruled alone and was not enamored with the religions in her own land. The Queen of Sheba traveled to Jerusalem as she had “heard about the fame of Solomon and his relationship to the LORD, [and] came to test Solomon with hard questions” (1 Kings 10:1). As God had granted Solomon the gift of wisdom (1 Kings 3:5–12), “nothing was too hard for the king to explain to her” (1 Kings 10:3). After a meal together, the Queen of Sheba declares how impressed she is with Solomon’s answers, hospitality, and the reputation that preceded him. The story ends with an exchange of resources and the Queen of Sheba returning “with her retinue to her own country” (1 Kings 10:13). Sources outside the Bible suggest that the Queen of Sheba conceived a child in secret with King Solomon, while some Bible commentators have suggested that the nameless woman in the Song of Solomon is the Queen of Sheba (with the man being King Solomon). Both are speculative and, while interesting, cannot be declared factual. Whether she has any relation to the “Sheba” mentioned in Genesis 10:7 and 28, or if she was the ancestor of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” (Acts 8:27), is, again, open to speculation. The Queen of Sheba is mentioned again in the New Testament by an alternative title, the Queen of the South (Matthew 12:42; Luke 11:31). Jesus refers to her, reaffirming her historical personage, as a means to illustrate the point that, despite being originally pagan in belief and Gentile in race, the Queen of Sheba recognized the truth and reality of God, unlike the religious leaders who opposed Jesus. As such, they would be condemned for their ignorant and defiant nature. Two lessons can be learned from the story of the Queen of Sheba. First, like King Solomon, believers are to show evidence of God’s favor in their lives, whatever their role, profession, or environment. Second, the reputation of believers should precede them by their godly words and actions, for we are “Christ’s ambassadors” (2 Corinthians 5:20). GotQuestions.org QUESTION - Who was the Queen of the South? ANSWER - The Queen of the South is mentioned by Jesus in Matthew 12:42 and its parallel passage, Luke 11:31. Jesus says the Queen of the South will bear witness on the Day of Judgment, condemning those Israelites who rejected Jesus as Lord. Jesus identifies the Queen of the South as a queen who visited King Solomon to benefit from his wisdom. From this, we can deduce that she is the Queen of Sheba who came to test Solomon with difficult questions (1 Kings 10:1). Most biblical scholars believe that Sheba was a city in modern-day Ethiopia or Yemen, and that the Queen of the South was the ruler of that city, a woman of amazing wealth and power. Having heard reports of King Solomon’s wisdom, the Queen of Sheba wanted to find out if what she had heard was true, if there really could be a king that wise. So she traveled to Jerusalem to quiz Solomon with riddles. She also brought a wealth of gifts and spices and jewels from her own land to give to him (1 Kings 10:10; 2 Chronicles 9:9). Solomon answered all her questions (1 Kings 10:3) and repaid her in gifts of equal value. The Queen of the South then returned home (2 Chronicles 9:12). The Queen of the South has been the subject of many artistic works and legends. Some people also speculate that the Queen of the South is the same woman as the Shulammite mentioned in the Song of Solomon, because of the reference to the Shulammite’s dark skin (Song of Solomon 1:5). However, there is stronger evidence to suggest that the Shulammite came from Shunem, a region near Israel. Jesus mentions the Queen of the South in the context of Israel’s rejection of their True King. Though she was a Gentile, she traveled a long distance to hear Solomon, and the treasures she brought showed her respect for him and the wisdom he possessed. In contrast, the Jews of Jesus’ time were unwilling to travel any distance to hear the King of kings. The Queen of Sheba’s lavish respect for Solomon stood in stark contrast to Israel’s flat-out rejection of Christ. Yet Christ is greater than Solomon (Matthew 12:42). Solomon was a son of David, but Jesus is the Son of David. Solomon was rich, but Jesus is the Creator of all riches. Solomon possessed the gift of wisdom, but Jesus is wisdom personified (1 Corinthians 1:30).GotQuestions.org F B