2 Chronicles 17:1-19

And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead.

The conditions of national prosperity

This chapter shows--

I. That true religion is the basis of the State; and that wherever it prospers there the State prospers.

II. That it is the wisdom of kings to encourage religion with all their power and influence.

III. That a religious nation is ever a great nation.

IV. That a religious nation is ever a peaceful and united nation. (A. Clarke, D. D.)

Jehoshaphat

I. His policy as a statesman.

1. It was protective (2 Chronicles 17:1).

2. It was wise.

3. It was eminently patriotic.

II. His character as a man.

1. He was distinguished for true piety.

(1) In his every-day life (2 Chronicles 17:3).

(2) In his private devotions (2 Chronicles 17:3).

(3) In his obedience to God (2 Chronicles 17:4).

2. The inspiration of his heart came from the consciousness of his obedience to God (2 Chronicles 17:6).

III. His wisdom as a ruler.

1. He removed temptation from his people (2 Chronicles 17:6).

2. He provided for his people the highest means of good (2 Chronicles 17:7). (Metropolitan Pulpit.)

Jehoshaphat’s prosperity

I. Its measure. Everything indicates that it was great and genuine. Not an element of true prosperity is wanting, whether we consider him individually or as identified with the realm. It involved--

1. The safety of the kingdom.

2. Wealth.

3. Honour from abroad.

4. The love and confidence of his own people.

II. Its origin. This was partly natural, partly supernatural.

1. Natural.

(1) The roots of his prosperity lay largely in himself. He was a man of correct instincts and good convictions. A man of worth and weight of character. By these he won the love and secured the co-operation of his people.

(2) He was wise in management.

2. Supernatural. “The Lord stablished the kingdom in his hand.” It was a reward of piety. He honoured God, and God honoured and exalted him. Lessons:

1. The union of prudence and piety. Each is helpful to the other; neither is sufficient without the other. Prudence gives tone and practicality to piety; piety gives sweetness and mellowness to prudence. Piety alone tends to feebleness and inefficiency; prudence alone inclines to coldness and covetousness. United they round out the character in beauty and strength.

2. Reform through religion and law. Jehoshaphat united the civil and religious power in securing national reform. How necessary is this union in the great struggle with intemperance and other moral defilements. (Monday Club Sermons.)