Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 20 - Verse 37

Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against King Jehoshaphat, warning him that because he had allied himself with King Ahaziah, God would break his works. Jehoshaphat's decision to ally with Ahaziah, who was considered an ungodly ruler, led to the destruction of their joint naval fleet. The ships that were meant to go to Tarshish were broken, rendering them unable to fulfill their intended journey. This episode serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of forming alliances with those who do not uphold God's principles. It also highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance and staying true to one's faith rather than compromising for worldly gain. Jehoshaphat's experience reminds believers to be discerning in their associations and to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.

One way to interpret the theological significance of this verse is to look at the relationship between King Jehoshaphat and King Ahaziah. By aligning himself with Ahaziah, who did evil in the sight of the Lord, Jehoshaphat experienced consequences for his actions. Eliezer's prophecy against Jehoshaphat serves as a warning about the dangers of forming alliances with those who do not follow the ways of the Lord. The breaking of the ships symbolizes the breakdown of Jehoshaphat's plans and ambitions, as a result of his unwise associations. This verse highlights the importance of staying faithful to God's commandments and not allowing worldly influences to lead us astray. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the implications of terms like "broken" and "works" to gain a better understanding of the severity of the situation. Overall, this passage serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of compromising one's faith for the sake of earthly alliances.