So Jotham grew powerfulJotham was the son of Uzziah and became king of Judah. His reign is noted for stability and strength, which is reflected in his military successes and building projects. The phrase "grew powerful" indicates not only military might but also political influence and stability. This growth in power can be seen as a continuation of the prosperity that began under his father, Uzziah, who also had a successful reign until his pride led to his downfall (
2 Chronicles 26:16). Jotham's power is a testament to his effective leadership and the favor of God upon his reign.
because he ordered his ways
This phrase highlights Jotham's intentional and disciplined approach to governance and personal conduct. "Ordered his ways" suggests a life of structure, purpose, and adherence to a set of principles. In the context of a king, this would involve just and wise administration, as well as personal integrity. The Hebrew concept of "ways" often refers to one's conduct or lifestyle, indicating that Jotham's actions were consistent and aligned with divine expectations.
before the LORD his God
Jotham's success is attributed to his relationship with God, emphasizing that his power was not merely due to human effort or strategy but was a result of divine blessing. The phrase "before the LORD" suggests living in a manner that is pleasing to God, with an awareness of His presence and authority. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and the kings of Judah, where obedience to God's laws was expected. Jotham's faithfulness contrasts with other kings who turned away from God, leading to their downfall. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme that true success and prosperity come from aligning one's life with God's will, as seen in passages likePsalm 1:1-3 andProverbs 3:5-6.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
JothamThe king of Judah, son of Uzziah, who reigned for sixteen years. He is noted for his faithfulness and obedience to God, which led to his success and power.
2.
JudahThe southern kingdom of Israel, where Jotham reigned. It was a time of relative stability and prosperity under his leadership.
3.
The LORDThe covenant God of Israel, who is central to the account. Jotham's relationship with God is highlighted as the source of his strength and success.
4.
JerusalemThe capital city of Judah, where Jotham carried out his reign and where he undertook significant building projects.
5.
The TempleAlthough not directly mentioned in this verse, the Temple in Jerusalem is a central place of worship and a symbol of Jotham's commitment to God.
Teaching Points
Faithfulness Leads to StrengthJotham's power and success were directly linked to his faithfulness to God. In our lives, spiritual strength and success come from aligning our ways with God's will.
Order and ObedienceThe phrase "ordered his ways" suggests intentionality and discipline in following God. We are called to live with purpose and obedience, structuring our lives around God's principles.
The Importance of a Godly LegacyJotham's reign is a testament to the impact of a godly leader. Our actions and faithfulness can leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
God's Sovereignty in LeadershipJotham's account reminds us that true power and authority come from God. Leaders should seek God's guidance and wisdom in their roles.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 27:6?
2.How did Jotham's strength relate to his walk with God in 2 Chronicles 27:6?
3.What does "ordered his ways before the LORD" teach about personal discipline?
4.How can Jotham's example inspire us to strengthen our faith today?
5.What other biblical figures "ordered their ways" before God and saw success?
6.How can we apply Jotham's obedience to our daily spiritual practices?
7.How does 2 Chronicles 27:6 reflect Jotham's relationship with God and his success as a king?
8.What does 2 Chronicles 27:6 teach about the connection between faithfulness and strength?
9.How does Jotham's story in 2 Chronicles 27:6 challenge modern views on leadership and integrity?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Chronicles 27?
11.Who was King Jotham of Judah?
12.If 2 Chronicles 27:6 asserts Jotham “became mighty” through obedience to God, why is there little to no external corroboration of his fame or influence?
13.How does the brief reign of Jotham in 2 Chronicles 27 align with known historical timelines, and why are external sources silent on his rule?
14.How can 2 Chronicles 27:1–2 claim Jotham faithfully followed God if “the high places” were not removed, suggesting partial disobedience?What Does 2 Chronicles 27:6 Mean
So Jotham grew powerfulJotham’s rise is presented as historical fact. His reign, unlike his father Uzziah’s troubled finish (2 Chron 26:16–21), is marked by stability and strength. Scripture often records this pattern: when a king follows the Lord, national security and personal influence increase (see 2 Chron 17:5 with Jehoshaphat;Psalm 1:3). “Powerful” here embraces military success (2 Chron 27:5), civic building (v. 4), and personal reputation, much like Joseph’s favor inGenesis 39:2–4.
becauseThe verse explicitly links Jotham’s might to a spiritual cause. God’s promises inDeuteronomy 28:1–2 stand behind this: obedience draws blessing. The chronicler repeatedly shows cause-and-effect between faithfulness and prosperity (2 Chron 31:21; 26:5). There is no hint of chance—Jotham’s strength is the result of divine favor responding to a godly life.
he ordered his ways“Ordered” points to deliberate, consistent choices. Jotham didn’t drift into righteousness; he set his course. Compare1 Kings 2:3, where David urges Solomon to “keep the charge of the LORD.” Practical outworkings include:
• refusing the idolatrous high places his people clung to (2 Kings 15:35)
• administering justice in building projects (2 Chron 27:4)
• leading by example rather than mere decree (cf.Psalm 119:133, “order my steps in Your word”).
Such alignment with God’s revealed standards echoesProverbs 3:5–6 andPsalm 119:1–3.
before the LORD his GodJotham lived coram Deo—consciously in God’s presence. This phrase underscores relationship: “his” God, not a distant deity. Earlier, his father “set himself to seek God” (2 Chron 26:5), but later lost that focus; Jotham maintained it. Walking “before the LORD” evokes Abraham inGenesis 17:1 and Hezekiah in2 Kings 20:3, reminding us that genuine strength flows from intimacy with God (Micah 6:8).
summaryJotham’s story illustrates a timeless principle: steadfast obedience brings God-given strength. He arranged every aspect of life under the Lord’s authority, and the Lord rewarded him with power that blessed both king and kingdom.
(6)
So Jotham became mighty.--The chronicler's customary phrase. "Strengthened himself," "gained strength" (
2Chronicles 13:21).
Because he prepared.--For he directed hisways (Proverbs 21:29; comp. also2Chronicles 12:14;2Chronicles 20:33). Jotham directed his ways "before,"i.e., in the chronicler's usage, "to meet," "towards" Jehovah his God. (Comp.1Chronicles 12:17;1Samuel 7:3.) "Direct your heart towards Jehovah." Perhaps, however, "before" simply means "as in the sight of" Jehovah. (Comp.Genesis 17:1, "walk before me.") . . .
Verse 6. - The virtue of the reflection of this verse is apparent.
Prepared; Hebrew,
הֵכִין; Revised Version,
ordered; with some others (such as "set straight," etc.), a good rendering in keeping with other Old Testament renderings of words betokening moral
habitude.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
So Jothamיוֹתָ֑ם(yō·w·ṯām)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3147:Jotham -- 'the LORD is perfect', three Israelitesgrew powerfulוַיִּתְחַזֵּ֖ק(way·yiṯ·ḥaz·zêq)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hitpael - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 2388:To fasten upon, to seize, be strong, obstinate, to bind, restrain, conquerbecauseכִּ֚י(kî)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionhe orderedהֵכִ֣ין(hê·ḵîn)Verb - Hifil - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3559:To be erecthis waysדְּרָכָ֔יו(də·rā·ḵāw)Noun - common plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1870:A road, a course of life, mode of actionbeforeלִפְנֵ֖י(lip̄·nê)Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440:The facethe LORDיְהוָ֥ה(Yah·weh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3069:YHWHhis God.אֱלֹהָֽיו׃(’ĕ·lō·hāw)Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 430:gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative
Links
2 Chronicles 27:6 NIV2 Chronicles 27:6 NLT2 Chronicles 27:6 ESV2 Chronicles 27:6 NASB2 Chronicles 27:6 KJV
2 Chronicles 27:6 BibleApps.com2 Chronicles 27:6 Biblia Paralela2 Chronicles 27:6 Chinese Bible2 Chronicles 27:6 French Bible2 Chronicles 27:6 Catholic Bible
OT History: 2 Chronicles 27:6 So Jotham became mighty because he ordered (2 Chron. 2Ch iiCh ii ch 2 chr 2chr) 
