King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 11:4 Mean?

“Thus saith the LORD, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren: return every man to his house: for this thing is done of me. And they obeyed the words of the LORD, and returned from going against Jeroboam.”

Context

But the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah the man of God, saying,

Speak unto Rehoboam the son of Solomon, king of Judah, and to all Israel in Judah and Benjamin, saying,

Thus saith the LORD, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren: return every man to his house: for this thing is done of me. And they obeyed the words of the LORD, and returned from going against Jeroboam.

And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem, and built cities for defence in Judah.

He built even Bethlehem, and Etam, and Tekoa,

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(4) **Thus saith the Lord**.—The words of the prophecy are reported as in 1Kings 12:24, omitting “the sons of Israel” after “your brethren.” **This thing is done of me**.—Literally, *from me became* (*arose*)* this matter;* viz., of the revolt of the ten tribes. (Comp. 2Chronicles 10:15 : “For the cause was of God.”) **Words.**—“Word,” Kings and the versions here, no doubt rightly, as this is the usual phrase. But comp. 1Samuel 15:1. **From going against Jeroboam.**—Kings, “To go away, *according to the word of the Lord “*—a tautology which the chronicler has avoided. The rest of the chapter is wanting in the Syriac and Arabic Versions, which have instead 1Kings 12:25-30; 1Kings 13:34; 1Kings 14:1-9, where they break off abruptly, without finishing Ahijah’s prophecy.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Chronicles 11:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.