Verse 1

in peace. In contrast with Ahab"s return (2 Chronicles 18:33, 2 Chronicles 18:34, 2 Chronicles 18:37).

Verse 2

Jehu the son of Hanani. He had reproved Baasha, king of Israel, at Tirzah (1 Kings 16:1); and now rebukes Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, at Jerusalem.

Shouldest thou . . . ? Figure of speech Erotesis, for emphasis. Here we have Jehovah"s opinion as to alliances with idolaters (Ahab, 2 Chronicles 18:1, &c), and as to what constitutes a "good work". See note on 2 Chronicles 19:3.

ungodly = lawless one (singular) App-44.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

wrath. Manifested in the wars recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:1-3.

Verse 3

Nevertheless. Figure of speech Palinodia.

the groves = the "Asheroth. See App-42.

God. Hebrew. Elohim.(with Art.) = the [true] God. App-4.

Verse 4

from Beer-sheba, &c. The two outermost bounds.

mount = hill country of.

Verse 6

man. Hebrew. "adam. App-14.

in the judgments = in the word or matter of judgment.

Verse 7

fear = dread, as in 2 Chronicles 20:29; not as in 2 Chronicles 19:9 below, which is "reverence".

respect of persons. Closely following Deuteronomy 16:18-20.

gifts = bribes.

Verse 8

Moreover, &c. Compare Deuteronomy 17:8-13.

chief = head.

Verse 9

fear = reverence. See note on 2 Chronicles 19:7 above.

Verse 10

warn. Used of warning or enlightenment as to God"s word (Psalms 19:11). Out of twenty-two occurrences fifteen are in Ezekiel.

trespass. Hebrew. "asham. App-44.

Verse 11

Amariah. The fifth high priest from Zadok (1 Chronicles 6:11), Jehoshaphat being the fifth king from David.

all matters of the LORD. Probably refers to spiritual, or ecclesiastical matters.

Deal courageously = be strong, and act.