Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Chronicles 13:8

"And now ye think to withstand the kingdom of Jehovah in the hand of the sons of David; and ye are a great multitude, and there are with you the golden calves which Jeroboam made you for gods." — 2 Chronicles 13:8 (ASV)

And now you think. —Literally, say, that is, in your hearts (2 Chronicles 2:1).

To withstand the kingdom. —Literally, to show yourselves strong before the kingdom, as in last verse.

In (through) the hand of the sons of David. —The meaning is, the kingdom which Jehovah holds by the instrumentality of the house of David, as His earthly representatives. (Compare to the Vulgate, “regno Domini quod possidet per filios David.” (See 1 Chronicles 29:23)).

And there are with you golden calves. —And therefore you believe yourselves assured of Divine aid, in addition to the strength of numbers. But your trust is delusive, for Jeroboam made the objects of your fond idolatry ; and you have superseded the only lawful worship of Jehovah (2 Chronicles 13:9).