2 Kings 13:23

But the LORD was gracious to Israel and had compassion on them, and He turned toward them because of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. And to this day, the LORD has been unwilling to destroy them or cast them from His presence.

Study Bible

But the LORD was gracious to Israel
This phrase highlights God's unmerited favor towards Israel, despite their repeated disobedience. The Hebrew word for "gracious" implies a deep, compassionate love. This grace is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, as seen in Exodus 34:6, where God describes Himself as "compassionate and gracious." It underscores the idea that God's relationship with Israel is based on His character rather than their actions.

and had compassion on them
Compassion here indicates a deep emotional response, akin to a parent's love for a child. This reflects God's enduring love and patience, as seen in passages like Hosea 11:8-9, where God struggles with the idea of giving up on Israel. It emphasizes that God's actions are motivated by love and mercy, not merely obligation.

and He turned toward them
This phrase suggests a deliberate action by God to restore His favor and presence to Israel. It implies a change in relationship status, from one of potential judgment to one of renewed fellowship. This turning is reminiscent of the prodigal son's return in Luke 15, where the father runs to meet his son, symbolizing God's readiness to forgive and restore.

because of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
The covenant mentioned is foundational to Israel's identity and God's dealings with them. It refers to the promises made in Genesis 12:1-3, 26:3-5, and 28:13-15, where God promises land, descendants, and blessing. This covenant is unconditional, based on God's faithfulness rather than human merit, and is a precursor to the New Covenant through Christ, as seen in Galatians 3:16.

And to this day, the LORD has been unwilling to destroy them
This phrase indicates the enduring nature of God's promises and His patience. Despite Israel's failures, God remains committed to His covenant. This is echoed in Jeremiah 31:35-37, where God promises that Israel will never cease to be a nation before Him. It highlights God's sovereignty and faithfulness over time.

or cast them from His presence
Being in God's presence is a sign of favor and blessing. The threat of being cast away is a serious one, as seen in the exile narratives. However, God's reluctance to do so underscores His desire for relationship and redemption. This is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus, who reconciles humanity to God, as seen in Ephesians 2:13-18.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who shows grace and compassion.

2. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often straying from God but still under His covenantal care.

3. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
The patriarchs with whom God made His covenant, promising numerous descendants and a land.

4. Jehoahaz
The king of Israel during this time, whose reign was marked by idolatry and oppression by the Arameans.

5. Arameans
The oppressors of Israel during Jehoahaz's reign, used by God as a means of discipline.

Teaching Points

God's Unfailing Covenant Faithfulness
Despite Israel's repeated disobedience, God remains faithful to His covenant. This underscores the reliability of God's promises and His unchanging nature.

The Role of Grace and Compassion
God's actions are rooted in grace and compassion, not based on Israel's merit. This teaches us about the nature of divine grace, which is unearned and freely given.

The Importance of Intercession
The covenant with the patriarchs serves as an intercessory basis for God's mercy. Believers are encouraged to intercede for others, trusting in God's promises.

God's Reluctance to Abandon His People
God's unwillingness to destroy or cast away Israel highlights His patience and long-suffering. This encourages believers to trust in God's enduring presence even in times of failure.

The Call to Repentance and Faithfulness
While God is patient, Israel's account is a call to repentance and faithfulness. Believers are reminded to turn from sin and remain faithful to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob enhance our view of His faithfulness today?

2. In what ways can we see God's grace and compassion in our own lives, similar to how He dealt with Israel?

3. How can the example of God's patience with Israel encourage us in our personal walk with God?

4. What role does intercession play in our relationship with God, and how can we apply this in praying for others?

5. How can we balance the assurance of God's faithfulness with the call to live a life of repentance and obedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
God's covenant with Abraham, promising to make him a great nation and bless all families of the earth through him.

Exodus 34:6-7
Describes God's character as compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.

Psalm 105:8-10
Reaffirms God's remembrance of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Romans 11:1-2
Paul speaks of God's continued faithfulness to Israel, not rejecting His people whom He foreknew.

Hebrews 6:13-18
Discusses the unchangeable nature of God's promise, highlighting His faithfulness.