Summary of Meaning

This verse encapsulates the grave spiritual decline of King Ahaz of Judah, illustrating the depths of idolatry and the extent of his rebellion against God. His actions of burning incense and offering his children as sacrifices in a valley associated with pagan worship signal a profound departure from the worship of Yahweh.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes the horror of Ahaz’s practices, noting that such acts were not only an abomination but also demonstrated a complete disregard for his covenant with God. Henry reflects on the significance of the Valley of Hinnom, a place where children were sacrificed to false gods.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes discusses the historical context, indicating that Ahaz's actions were influenced by surrounding nations that engaged in similar idolatrous practices. He highlights the tragedy of a king leading his people into sin, stating that Ahaz's worship was a deluded attempt to secure favor and prosperity.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke provides a theological perspective, remarking on the severe consequences of Ahaz's actions—both for himself and for Judah. He links his idolatry to a broader theme of divine judgment upon disobedient nations and emphasizes the stark contrast to the worship expected by God.

Related Bible Verses

2 Chronicles 28:3 connects thematically and contextually with several other scripture passages, underscoring the motifs of idolatry, divine judgment, and sacrificial practices:

• Leviticus 18:21: Prohibits child sacrifice, illustrating God's command against such abominable practices.
• Jeremiah 7:31: Condemns the practice of child sacrifice in the Valley of Hinnom, warning of impending judgment.
• 2 Kings 16:3: Provides a parallel account of Ahaz's idolatry and his imitation of kingly practices from surrounding nations.
• Micah 6:7: Questions what God expects from His people, in stark contrast to the sacrifices made by Ahaz.
• Isaiah 57:5: Critiques those who sacrifice in the gardens and set up altars, evoking similar condemnations of idolatrous rituals.
• Psalms 106:37-38: Discusses the Israelites sacrificing their children to demons, linking the sin of the people with that of Ahaz.
• 2 Chronicles 33:6: Details the later idolatrous actions of Manasseh, Ahaz’s grandson, marking a continuum of sin in Judah.
• Romans 12:1: Instead of offering children, believers are called to present themselves as living sacrifices, a complete reversal of the practices of Ahaz.
• Deuteronomy 12:31: Warns Israel against imitating the grotesque practices of idolatrous nations.
• Ezekiel 20:26: God comments on the abominations practiced by Israel, including child sacrifice, emphasizing His disapproval.

Cross-Referencing Insights

The act of cross-referencing these verses serves to deepen our understanding of the moral and spiritual ramifications of idolatry as demonstrated by Ahaz. It provides a comprehensive view of the text, illustrating how scripture often dialogues across different contexts.

This exercise in Bible verse cross-referencing can help readers locate connections between scripture that reveal enduring themes, such as the danger of turning away from God and the consequences of sin.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

• Bible Concordance: A valuable tool for finding words and themes related to specific verses.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Techniques and methods for drawing parallels between verses.
• Comprehensive Bible Cross-Reference Materials: Guides that assist in understanding thematic connections.
• How to use Bible cross-references: A practical approach to integrating cross-references in study.
• Bible chain references: A systematic method to connect verses on similar themes.

Conclusion

2 Chronicles 28:3 presents a stark warning against the perils of idolatry and disobedience to God. By examining this verse through the insights of various commentaries and cross-referencing related scriptures, we come to a fuller understanding of its implications both historically and spiritually.

Engaging with the Bible through cross-referencing fosters a deeper relationship with the text, revealing the interconnectedness of God's message throughout scripture.