2 Chronicles 36:5

Jehoiakim was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. And he did evil in the sight of the LORD his God.

Study Bible

Jehoiakim
The name "Jehoiakim" means "Yahweh raises up" or "Yahweh establishes." Despite the divine implication of his name, Jehoiakim's reign was marked by disobedience and rebellion against God. Historically, Jehoiakim was placed on the throne by Pharaoh Necho of Egypt, indicating a period of political instability and foreign influence over Judah. His reign is a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's covenant and relying on human alliances.

was twenty-five years old
This phrase indicates the age at which Jehoiakim began his reign. In the context of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, becoming king at twenty-five suggests a level of maturity and readiness to assume leadership. However, Jehoiakim's subsequent actions reveal that age does not necessarily equate to wisdom or righteousness.

when he became king
The transition to kingship is a significant moment, often accompanied by expectations of justice, leadership, and adherence to God's laws. Jehoiakim's ascension to the throne was not marked by a return to the ways of his righteous ancestors but rather a continuation of the decline that had begun under previous kings.

and he reigned in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of David, was the spiritual and political center of Judah. It was the location of the Temple, the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Jehoiakim's reign in this sacred city underscores the gravity of his actions and the impact of his leadership on the nation's spiritual state.

eleven years
The duration of Jehoiakim's reign, eleven years, is relatively short compared to other kings of Judah. This period was marked by significant turmoil, including the initial Babylonian invasion. The brevity of his reign serves as a testament to the instability and divine judgment that characterized his leadership.

He did evil
This phrase is a common biblical assessment of a king's reign, indicating actions that were contrary to God's commands. The Hebrew word for "evil" (רַע, ra) encompasses moral, ethical, and spiritual corruption. Jehoiakim's evil deeds included idolatry, oppression, and disregard for prophetic warnings, highlighting the king's failure to uphold the covenant with God.

in the sight of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes that Jehoiakim's actions were not hidden from God. The LORD (Yahweh) is portrayed as the ultimate judge who sees and evaluates the deeds of individuals and nations. This divine perspective serves as a reminder that human actions are accountable to God's righteous standards.

his God
The use of "his God" personalizes the relationship between Jehoiakim and Yahweh, indicating that despite Jehoiakim's rebellion, God remained his covenantal deity. This phrase underscores the tragedy of Jehoiakim's reign: he turned away from the very God who had established his lineage and offered guidance and blessing. It serves as a call to return to faithfulness and recognize God's sovereignty in all aspects of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoiakim
The son of Josiah, Jehoiakim became king of Judah at the age of twenty-five. His reign lasted eleven years, during which he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Jehoiakim reigned. It was a significant religious and political center for the Israelites.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is the ultimate judge of the actions of kings and nations.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was under the rule of Jehoiakim during this period.

5. Evil in the sight of the LORD
This phrase indicates actions and behaviors that were contrary to God's commandments and expectations for His people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoiakim's reign serves as a reminder of the impact that leadership can have on a nation. Leaders are called to uphold God's standards and lead with integrity.

Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoiakim's evil actions led to negative consequences for Judah, illustrating the principle that disobedience to God brings about judgment and hardship.

Personal Accountability
Each individual, like Jehoiakim, is accountable to God for their actions. We must strive to live in a way that is pleasing to the LORD.

The Role of Prophets and Scripture
Prophets like Jeremiah were sent to call out the sins of leaders and the people. We should heed the warnings and teachings of Scripture in our own lives.

The Need for Repentance
Despite Jehoiakim's failure, there is always an opportunity for repentance and turning back to God. We should be quick to repent when we stray from His ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. What characteristics of Jehoiakim's reign made it "evil in the sight of the LORD," and how can we avoid similar pitfalls in our own leadership roles?

2. How does the account of Jehoiakim's reign in 2 Chronicles 36:5 compare with the expectations for kings outlined in Deuteronomy 17:18-20?

3. In what ways can we apply the lessons from Jehoiakim's life to our personal walk with God, especially in terms of accountability and obedience?

4. How do the prophetic warnings given to Jehoiakim through Jeremiah apply to us today, and what can we learn from them about responding to God's correction?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How did that experience shape your understanding of God's justice and mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 23:36-24:7
Provides a parallel account of Jehoiakim's reign, highlighting his oppressive policies and the consequences of his actions.

Jeremiah 22:13-19
Offers a prophetic critique of Jehoiakim's reign, emphasizing his injustice and lack of concern for the poor.

Deuteronomy 17:18-20
Outlines the expectations for Israelite kings, which Jehoiakim failed to uphold, such as reading the law and fearing the LORD.

Proverbs 14:34
Speaks to the principle that righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people, reflecting the moral decline under Jehoiakim.