1Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, returned home safely to Jerusalem.
2Jehu, the son of Hanani the prophet, went out to meet him and said to King Jehoshaphat, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate Yahweh? Because of this, Yahweh is angry with you.
3Nevertheless, some good things are found in you, because you have removed the Asherah poles from the land and have committed yourself to seeking God.”
4Jehoshaphat lived in Jerusalem. He traveled among the people again, from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim, and brought them back to Yahweh, the God of their ancestors.
5He appointed judges in all the fortified cities of Judah, city by city, throughout the land.
6He told the judges, “Be careful about what you do, because you are not judging for people, but for Yahweh; and he is with you in your decisions.
7So now, let the fear of Yahweh be upon you. Pay attention and do what is right, for Yahweh our God is completely fair, impartial, and does not accept bribes.”
8Also, in Jerusalem, Jehoshaphat appointed Levites, priests, and family leaders from Israel to handle judgments from Yahweh and resolve disputes. They returned to Jerusalem.
9He commanded them, saying, “You must do this with the fear of Yahweh, faithfully, and with a sincere heart.
10Whenever any disagreement comes to you from your relatives who live in their cities, whether it’s a case of bloodshed, disputes about law or commandments, rules or regulations, you must warn them so they do not become guilty before Yahweh. Otherwise, wrath will come upon you and your relatives. Do this, and you will not be guilty.
11Look, Amariah the chief priest is in charge of all matters concerning Yahweh; and Zebadiah son of Ishmael, the leader of the tribe of Judah, is in charge of all the king’s matters. Also, the Levites will serve as officers before you. Act with courage, and may Yahweh be with those who do good.”