2 Kings 11:9

So the commanders of hundreds did everything that Jehoiada the priest had ordered. Each of them took his men--those coming on duty on the Sabbath and those going off duty--and came to Jehoiada the priest.

Study Bible

So the commanders of hundreds did everything that Jehoiada the priest had ordered.
Jehoiada the priest played a crucial role in preserving the Davidic line by orchestrating the protection and eventual crowning of Joash. The "commanders of hundreds" were military leaders responsible for executing Jehoiada's plan. This phrase highlights the obedience and respect the military had for Jehoiada, indicating his influence and authority. The cooperation between religious and military leaders was essential for the success of this plan, reflecting the theocratic nature of Israelite society where religious leaders often held significant sway over political and military matters.

Each of them took his men—those coming on duty on the Sabbath and those going off duty—
The reference to the Sabbath indicates the strategic timing of Jehoiada's plan. The changing of the guard on the Sabbath would have been a routine event, allowing for a seamless transition of forces without arousing suspicion. This clever use of timing ensured that there were enough loyal soldiers present to protect Joash and execute the coup against Athaliah. The Sabbath, a day of rest and worship, also underscores the religious significance of the event, as it was a day dedicated to the Lord, aligning the coup with divine approval.

and came to Jehoiada the priest.
The commanders and their men coming to Jehoiada signifies their allegiance and trust in his leadership. Jehoiada's role as a priest underscores the religious legitimacy of the coup. By gathering at the temple, the center of religious life, the event is framed as not just a political maneuver but a divinely sanctioned act. This gathering at the temple also foreshadows the anointing and crowning of Joash, which would take place in a sacred setting, emphasizing the restoration of the Davidic line as a fulfillment of God's covenant with David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoiada the Priest
A key religious leader who orchestrated the protection and coronation of Joash, ensuring the continuation of David's line.

2. Commanders of Hundreds
Military leaders who were loyal to Jehoiada and played a crucial role in executing his plan to protect the young king.

3. Joash (Jehoash)
The young king of Judah, hidden and protected by Jehoiada, who would later restore the temple.

4. Athaliah
The usurping queen who had seized power after the death of her son, King Ahaziah, and sought to destroy the royal line.

5. The Temple of the LORD
The central place of worship and the location where Joash was crowned king.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoiada's role as a priest and leader demonstrates the impact of godly leadership in guiding a nation back to righteousness.

Strategic Obedience
The commanders' obedience to Jehoiada's instructions highlights the importance of following godly counsel and strategic planning in fulfilling God's purposes.

Preservation of God's Promises
The protection of Joash signifies God's faithfulness in preserving His promises, even amidst human attempts to thwart His plans.

The Role of the Sabbath
The use of the Sabbath in Jehoiada's plan shows the significance of rest and worship in God's timing and purposes.

Courage in the Face of Evil
The actions of Jehoiada and the commanders demonstrate the courage required to stand against evil and uphold righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoiada's leadership reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the obedience of the commanders to Jehoiada's plan demonstrate the importance of following godly counsel?

3. How does the preservation of Joash's life illustrate God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our personal faith journey?

4. What role does the Sabbath play in Jehoiada's plan, and how can we incorporate the principles of rest and worship into our weekly routine?

5. How can we find the courage to stand against evil in our own lives, drawing inspiration from the actions of Jehoiada and the commanders?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 23
This chapter provides a parallel account of the events in 2 Kings 11, offering additional details about Jehoiada's plan and the covenant made with the people.

Exodus 20:8-11
The Sabbath is highlighted as a day of rest and worship, which is significant in understanding the strategic timing of Jehoiada's plan.

Psalm 132:11-12
God's promise to David about his descendants sitting on the throne, which underscores the importance of preserving Joash's life and lineage.

1 Kings 2:4
God's covenant with David, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a righteous lineage on the throne of Israel.