Chapters XVII.–XX.
The Reign of Jehoshaphat.
Chapter XVII.
1–6.
The character of the reign.
The reign of Jehoshaphat is one of the most interesting sections of Chronicles If these chapters, xvii.–xx., be compared with the references to Jehoshaphat in Kings (viz. 1 Kings xxii. 1–35, 41–50), it will be seen that much new material appears in Chronicles (chapter xvii., and xix. 1–xx. 30), with the result that the prosperity and piety of this king are greatly enhanced. As to the historical value of the Chronicler’s account, see the head-notes to the various sections below.
¹And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel.
1. And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead] These words are from 1 Kings xv. 24. All the rest of this chapter is without any parallel in Kings.
²And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim, which Asa his father had taken.
2. the cities of Ephraim] Compare xv. 8.
³And the Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto the Baalim;