2 CHRONICLES 7

GOD WARNS THE ISRAELITES TO REMAIN FAITHFUL

When Solomon finishes his prayer, fire comes down from heaven to consume the Israelites' burnt offerings. God’s presence is so overwhelming that the priests could not enter the temple. Everyone bows down and worships God, praising His goodness and steadfast love. Thousands of sacrifices are offered, and the Israelites feast, rejoicing for two weeks over all that God has done for them.

Solomon accomplishes all that he set out to do. God hears Solomon’s prayer and appears to him, telling him that He has chosen Jerusalem as a house of sacrifice.

Despite God’s dwelling among the Israelites, they return to their unfaithful and rebellious ways. God warns Solomon of impending plagues, including drought, locust, and illness as a result of the nation's sinfulness. God would forgive the Israelites and end the plagues if they would repent and turn from their wicked ways.

God reminds the Israelites that idol worship will bring disaster. If the Israelites forsake God’s covenant and commandments by worshiping false gods, they will be removed from the Promised Land.