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Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 26 - Verse 16

26:16
But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of incense.

Meaning

This verse from 2 Chronicles 26:16 serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and arrogance. It tells the story of King Uzziah, a well-respected ruler in Judah who became strong and successful. However, as his power grew, so did his pride. He became overly confident in his own abilities and status, to the point where he believed he was above the law of the Lord. This arrogance led him to transgress against God by entering the temple and attempting to burn incense on the altar, a role reserved specifically for the priests. This act of disobedience and disrespect towards the divine authority resulted in Uzziah being struck with leprosy by God as a punishment. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how strong or successful one may become, it is essential to remain humble, obedient, and faithful to God, and to always remember that it is ultimately the Lord who holds true power and authority.

Theological Overview

In this particular verse from 2 Chronicles, we see a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride and arrogance. It tells the story of King Uzziah, who had experienced success and prosperity. However, when he became strong, his heart was lifted up in pride, leading to his downfall. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of humility and obedience to God. Uzziah's transgression against the Lord by entering the temple and burning incense, a task reserved for the priests, illustrates the danger of pride and disobedience. This serves as a reminder to remain humble and obedient in the sight of God, as pride can lead to destruction.

American Standard Version

But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up, so that he did corruptly, and he trespassed against Jehovah his God; for he went into the temple of Jehovah to burn incense upon the altar of incense.
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