2 Kings 12:6

By the twenty-third year of the reign of Joash, however, the priests had not yet repaired the damage to the temple.

Study Bible

But by the twenty-third year
This phrase marks a significant passage of time, indicating that Joash had been reigning for over two decades. The Hebrew word for "year" is "שָׁנָה" (shanah), which often signifies a complete cycle or a period of time. The mention of the "twenty-third year" underscores a sense of urgency and expectation. Joash began his reign with a commitment to restore the temple, yet this passage of time without progress suggests a lapse in diligence or priority. It serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and accountability in fulfilling God-given responsibilities.

of the reign of Joash
Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a king of Judah who ascended to the throne as a child. His reign is noted for the initial zeal in restoring the temple, a task he was influenced to undertake by Jehoiada the priest. The Hebrew name "יְהוֹאָשׁ" (Yeho'ash) means "Yahweh has given," reflecting the divine favor and purpose bestowed upon him. However, this verse highlights a period of stagnation, suggesting that even those with divine calling can falter without steadfast commitment and guidance.

the priests
The priests were the spiritual leaders and custodians of the temple, responsible for its upkeep and the proper conduct of worship. The Hebrew word "כֹּהֲנִים" (kohanim) refers to those set apart for sacred duties. Their failure to repair the temple indicates a neglect of their spiritual and practical responsibilities. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of complacency in spiritual leadership and the need for integrity and action in fulfilling one's divine duties.

had not yet repaired
The phrase "had not yet repaired" suggests a delay or failure in action. The Hebrew root "חָזַק" (chazaq) can mean to strengthen or repair, implying that the temple was in need of restoration. This lack of progress highlights the consequences of procrastination and the importance of timely action in addressing spiritual and physical decay. It calls believers to be proactive in maintaining and restoring their spiritual lives and places of worship.

the damage to the house
The "house" refers to the temple, the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The Hebrew word "בַּיִת" (bayit) signifies not just a physical structure but a place of familial and communal significance. The "damage" indicates neglect and deterioration, both physically and spiritually. This serves as a metaphor for the state of the people's relationship with God, emphasizing the need for continual renewal and restoration in one's spiritual walk. The verse challenges believers to prioritize the upkeep of their spiritual "house," ensuring it remains a worthy dwelling for God's presence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joash (Jehoash)
King of Judah who began his reign at a young age and was initially guided by the priest Jehoiada. He is noted for his efforts to repair the temple.

2. The Priests
Religious leaders responsible for the temple's upkeep and spiritual guidance of the people. In this context, they were tasked with repairing the temple but had not fulfilled their duties.

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

4. Jehoiada
The high priest who played a significant role in Joash's early reign, providing spiritual and political guidance.

5. The Twenty-Third Year of Joash's Reign
A specific time marker indicating a prolonged period during which the temple repairs were neglected.

Teaching Points

Accountability in Leadership
Leaders, both spiritual and secular, must be held accountable for their responsibilities. Joash's failure to ensure the temple repairs were completed serves as a reminder of the importance of oversight and diligence.

Prioritizing God's Work
The neglect of the temple repairs highlights the danger of allowing God's work to become secondary. Believers are called to prioritize their spiritual commitments and ensure that God's house and mission are maintained.

The Role of Stewardship
The priests' failure to repair the temple underscores the importance of faithful stewardship. Christians are entrusted with resources and responsibilities that must be managed wisely for God's glory.

The Consequences of Neglect
Neglecting spiritual duties can lead to deterioration, both physically and spiritually. Regular attention to one's spiritual life and commitments is essential for growth and health.

The Importance of Follow-Through
Good intentions must be matched with action. Joash's initial desire to repair the temple was commendable, but it required persistent effort and follow-through to be realized.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from Joash's failure to ensure the temple repairs were completed in a timely manner, and how can we apply these lessons to our own responsibilities?

2. How does the neglect of the temple in 2 Kings 12:6 compare to the situation described in Haggai 1, and what does this teach us about prioritizing God's work?

3. In what ways can we hold our spiritual leaders accountable today, similar to how Joash and the priests were accountable for the temple repairs?

4. How does the concept of stewardship apply to our personal lives, and what steps can we take to ensure we are managing our resources for God's purposes?

5. Reflect on a time when you had good intentions but failed to follow through. What changes can you make to ensure that your intentions align with your actions in the future?

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 of funds and the eventual completion of the repairs.

Haggai 1
The prophet Haggai addresses the neglect of the temple in his time, urging the people to prioritize God's house over their own homes, which echoes the situation in 2 Kings 12.

Malachi 3
Discusses the importance of tithes and offerings, which were meant to support the temple and its services, highlighting the broader issue of neglecting God's commands.