2 Kings 12:7

So King Joash called Jehoiada and the other priests and said, "Why have you not repaired the damage to the temple? Now, therefore, take no more money from your constituency, but hand it over for the repair of the temple."

Study Bible

Therefore King Joash summoned
The word "summoned" indicates a call to action, a directive from a position of authority. In Hebrew, the root word often implies a gathering or assembly for a specific purpose. King Joash, as a ruler, exercises his authority to address a pressing issue. Historically, Joash became king at a young age and was mentored by Jehoiada, the priest. This summoning reflects his growing independence and responsibility as a leader.

Jehoiada the priest
Jehoiada was a significant figure in the spiritual and political life of Judah. His name means "Yahweh knows," highlighting his role as a mediator between God and the people. As a priest, Jehoiada was responsible for maintaining the temple's sanctity and ensuring the proper worship of Yahweh. His relationship with Joash was pivotal, as he guided the young king in his early years, emphasizing the importance of godly mentorship.

and the other priests
The inclusion of "other priests" suggests a collective responsibility among the religious leaders. In the Levitical system, priests were tasked with various duties, including temple maintenance. This phrase underscores the communal aspect of religious service and the shared accountability in upholding the house of God.

and said to them
This phrase introduces a direct communication, emphasizing the importance of clear and authoritative instruction. In the biblical narrative, direct speech often signifies a moment of decision or change. Joash's words are not merely suggestions but commands that require immediate attention and action.

Why have you not repaired the damage in the house?
The question posed by Joash is both an inquiry and a rebuke. The "house" refers to the temple, the central place of worship and symbol of God's presence among His people. The Hebrew root for "repaired" implies restoration and making whole. Joash's concern reflects a desire to honor God by maintaining the temple's integrity, highlighting the spiritual neglect that had occurred.

Do not take any more money from your donors
This directive addresses the misuse or misallocation of funds intended for temple repairs. The phrase "from your donors" indicates that there was a system of contributions in place, likely from the people of Judah. Joash's command to cease taking money suggests a need for transparency and accountability in handling sacred resources.

but hand it over for the repair of the house
The phrase "hand it over" implies a transfer of responsibility and resources. Joash insists that the funds be used for their intended purpose: the repair of the temple. This highlights the importance of stewardship and the proper use of resources in service to God. The "repair of the house" signifies not just physical restoration but also a renewal of spiritual commitment and worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Joash
The king of Judah who reigned during a time when the temple needed repairs. He was concerned about the neglect of the temple's maintenance.

2. Jehoiada the Priest
A high priest who played a significant role in Joash's reign, including his rise to power and the spiritual guidance of the kingdom.

3. The Temple (House of the LORD)
The central place of worship for the Israelites, which had fallen into disrepair and needed restoration.

4. The Priests
Religious leaders responsible for the temple's upkeep and the collection of funds for its maintenance.

5. Donors
The people who contributed financially to the temple, expecting their offerings to be used for its repair.

Teaching Points

Responsibility in Stewardship
Joash's directive to the priests underscores the importance of accountability in handling resources dedicated to God's work. Believers today are called to be faithful stewards of their time, talents, and treasures.

Prioritizing God's House
The neglect of the temple serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual matters and the upkeep of places of worship, ensuring they are conducive to honoring God.

Leadership and Initiative
Joash's proactive approach in addressing the temple's disrepair highlights the role of leaders in initiating and overseeing necessary changes within the community of faith.

Transparency and Integrity
The instruction to stop collecting funds until the repairs were made emphasizes the need for transparency and integrity in financial dealings within the church.

Community Involvement
The involvement of donors in the temple's repair process illustrates the collective responsibility of the faith community in supporting and maintaining their place of worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does King Joash's concern for the temple's condition reflect the importance of maintaining our spiritual lives and places of worship today?

2. In what ways can we ensure accountability and transparency in the use of resources within our church communities?

3. How can we, as individuals, contribute to the upkeep and improvement of our local church or community of faith?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joash's leadership in addressing the neglect of the temple, and how can these lessons be applied to modern church leadership?

5. How does the concept of believers as God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17) influence our understanding of personal and communal spiritual maintenance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 24
This chapter provides a parallel account of Joash's reign and the temple repairs, offering additional details about the collection and use of funds.

Exodus 25-27
These chapters describe the original construction of the tabernacle, highlighting the importance of maintaining the place of worship.

Malachi 3:8-10
Discusses the importance of tithes and offerings, emphasizing the responsibility of religious leaders to use these funds appropriately.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as God's temple, drawing a spiritual parallel to the physical temple's care and maintenance.