Understanding 1 Kings 22:42

Verse: "Jehoshaphat was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother's name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi." (1 Kings 22:42)

Summary of Meaning

This verse serves as a historical marker for the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. He is recognized for his commitment to reform and his encouragement of the worship of Yahweh, contrasting the previous idolatrous practices.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry notes that Jehoshaphat’s age at ascension and the length of his reign speak to the stability of his rule, highlighting a positive aspect of his leadership contrary to some of the kings of Israel.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes emphasizes the importance of the family lineage, illustrating how his mother’s name connects to the broader history of the Israelite monarchy, and how this lineage plays into the legitimacy of the king.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke expands on the significance of Jehoshaphat's reign, suggesting it was marked by a strong dedication to Jehovah and accounts of military successes, showing him as a pivotal, reforming king in Judah's history.

Bible Verse Cross-References

• 2 Chronicles 20:31-33 - This passage recounts Jehoshaphat's reign and his efforts in purifying worship in Judah.
• 1 Kings 22:1 - Contextualizes Jehoshaphat’s reign with significant events that influenced his kingship.
• 2 Chronicles 17:3-6 - Highlights the faithfulness of Jehoshaphat to God, and his efforts in spiritual reforms.
• 1 Kings 15:24 - Discusses the preceding king, laying the groundwork for understanding Jehoshaphat's challenges.
• 1 Kings 22:41 - Details the end of Asa’s reign, setting the stage for Jehoshaphat’s coming to power.
• Luke 3:33 - Mentions Jehoshaphat in the genealogy of Jesus, showing the importance of his lineage.
• Micah 1:1 - Provides a prophetic context during Jehoshaphat's reign, illustrating the spiritual dynamics of the time.

Connections Between Bible Verses

The link between 1 Kings 22:42 and these references can be explored in various ways, such as:

• Thematic connections regarding faithfulness and reforms in leadership.
• Comparative Bible verse analysis of how different kings influenced Israel’s spiritual journey.
• Identifying connections between Old and New Testament figures through genealogical references.

Bible Study Methods

When studying scriptures like 1 Kings 22:42, consider using:

• Bible concordance to find related themes.
• Bible cross-reference guide to connect different Biblical narratives.
• Tools for Bible cross-referencing to explore inter-Biblical dialogue.

Conclusion

This verse encapsulates both the historical aspect of Jehoshaphat's reign and leads to robust thematic study grounded in scripture. The connections drawn through cross-referencing encourage profound insights into the works and influence of this significant king in Judah.