Chapter Summary

Solomon's sermon and prayer.

Discussion Questions for 2 Chronicles, Chapter 6

1. In verses 4-11, in what ways were King Solomon’s words important for the people of Israel? Why would it be important for him to emphasize the events leading to the temple dedication? What kind of response was he trying to invoke?
2. How does King Solomon approach God in verses 12-14? How would his approach impact the people around him, and how would it impact their perception of him as a leader?
3. In verse 18, King Solomon is in awe that God is going to dwell “with humans” (CSB). How often we take for granted that God, who is much greater than we can imagine, chooses to have a relationship with us, and even live with us. What other ways can this prayer remind you of that awesome truth? How does that reminder help you grow closer in relationship with God?
4. What expectations does King Solomon have for God, based on verses 14-17? Why do you think he can speak with such confidence in holding God to his promises? What does this show us about the precedent David set for Solomon in his relationship with God? In what ways do the lives of godly role models encourage us?
5. Does Solomon understand the expectations God has for him as the King? Based on the first half of the chapter, does King Solomon believe that he can live up to God’s expectations? Why do you think so?
6. In verses 22-40, What expectations does King Solomon have for God’s relationship with his people? Do you think the way God’s relationship with us in our context is different from what is described here? What expectations do you have in your relationship with God? Has anything in these verses impacted your understanding of God’s relationship with you?
7. Throughout his prayer, how many times does King Solomon mention the people of Israel sinning against God? Why do you think he makes this emphasis? What would the audience of Israel, those in attendance at the dedication and their descendants at the time this book was written, learn about God’s character, and his relationship with them?
8. In verses 32 and 33, King Solomon’s prayer is focused on “the foreigner,” (CSB). How does his prayer reflect God’s attitude towards people who are not Israelites? What expectations are there for them, and how are they different from what is expected of God’s chosen people?
9. What do verses 36 and 37 say about the process of God’s discipline? What do verses 38 and 39 say about the process of repentance? How do these verses help us better understand God’s mercy? Is it the same for God’s people today? How so?
10. According to this chapter, what is the cost of a relationship with God? What efforts need to be put into maintaining that relationship?

Key Words/Phrase

Dedicatlon, v. 12.

Characters

God, Solomon.

Strong Verse(s)

14, 41.