Chapter Summary

Divine acceptance. Sacrifice and reijoicing. God appears to Solomon.

Discussion Questions for 2 Chronicles, Chapter 7

1. Why, after experiencing the fire and glory of the Lord filling the temple in verses 1-3, do the Israelites’ respond with “For he is good, for his faithful love endures forever,” (CSB)? Why would a (presumably) fearsome experience show them God’s goodness and love? What kind of emotional response should we have when we see the glory of the Lord?
2. How does God’s appearance to Solomon in verses 12-22 answer Solomon’s earlier prayers in chapter 6, verses 12-42? In verses 17-22, why do you think God emphasized how harsh the repercussions would be if King Solomon were to "turn away," and "go serve other gods," (CSB)? Why does God assign Solomon this responsibility?
3. In verse 10, the people rejoice “for the goodness the LORD had done for David, for Solomon, and for his people Israel,” (CSB). What is the significance of the order in which the people are listed? Why is David still such an important figure for the people of Israel at this time? What does this sentiment from the people display about their history of godly leadership?
4. Verse 11 mentions King Solomon’s palace briefly: why is the palace not recorded in any detail of its construction as the temple is? How does this contrast the nation of Israel and her kings against other contemporary nations and kings?
5. What does verse 11 reveal about King Solomon’s motive for building the temple and palace?
6. In verse 13, God says to King Solomon that he might cause the Israelites to experience his discipline through drought, famine, and sickness. What can the Israelites rely on if they experience these things? What are some worldly things you have a dependence on that take away from your dependence on God?
7. Many people have applied verse 14 to modern day Christians. What are some ways that this promise from God could apply to your life? What about verses 13 and 14 together? How could these two verses shape your dependence on God?
8. Verse 16 says “my eyes and my heart will be there at all times,” (CSB). What does this say about God’s character while he is dwelling with his people? Why does he personify both his heart and eyes? What does each part represent?
9. What do verses 18-21 reveal about God’s covenant with King David?
10. What do verses 19-22 reveal about the responsibilities given to a ruler?

Key Words/Phrase

Accepted, vv. 1, 12.

Characters

God, Solomon.

Strong Verse(s)

1, 14.