2 Kings 13:6

Nevertheless, they did not turn away from the sins that the house of Jeroboam had caused Israel to commit, but they continued to walk in them. The Asherah pole even remained standing in Samaria.

Study Bible

Nevertheless, they did not turn away from the sins that the house of Jeroboam had caused Israel to commit
This phrase highlights the persistent idolatry in Israel, initiated by Jeroboam I, the first king of the northern kingdom after the division of Israel. Jeroboam established golden calves at Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:28-30) to prevent the Israelites from worshiping in Jerusalem, leading them into sin. This idolatry became a recurring theme and a stumbling block for subsequent kings and the people of Israel. The phrase underscores the spiritual stubbornness and rebellion against God's commandments, as the Israelites continued in practices that were explicitly condemned in the Mosaic Law (Exodus 20:3-4).

but they continued to walk in them
The continuation in sin indicates a deliberate choice to persist in idolatrous practices despite the prophetic warnings and judgments that had come upon Israel. This reflects a cultural and spiritual entrenchment in idolatry, showing the difficulty of breaking free from established sinful traditions. The phrase suggests a lack of repentance and a failure to heed the messages of prophets like Elijah and Elisha, who called Israel back to covenant faithfulness. This persistence in sin is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, illustrating the human tendency to resist divine correction.

The Asherah pole even remained standing in Samaria
The Asherah pole was a symbol of the Canaanite goddess Asherah, often associated with fertility and worshiped alongside Baal. Its presence in Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom, signifies the official endorsement of idolatry by the ruling authorities. This pole's continued existence indicates the depth of syncretism in Israelite worship, blending pagan practices with the worship of Yahweh. The Asherah pole's presence in Samaria is a testament to the failure of Israel's leaders to uphold the covenant and eradicate idolatry, as commanded in Deuteronomy 12:3. This idolatry would eventually lead to the downfall and exile of the northern kingdom, fulfilling the warnings given by the prophets.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. He is known for leading Israel into idolatry by setting up golden calves in Bethel and Dan.

2. House of Jeroboam
Refers to the dynasty and influence of Jeroboam, particularly his establishment of idol worship which became a persistent sin in Israel.

3. Asherah Pole
A sacred tree or pole that stood near Canaanite religious locations, associated with the worship of the goddess Asherah. It symbolizes the idolatry that persisted in Israel.

4. Samaria
The capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, often a center of political and religious activity, including idolatry.

5. Israel
The northern kingdom, distinct from Judah, often characterized by its struggle with idolatry and departure from the worship of Yahweh.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Unrepentant Sin
The persistence of Jeroboam's sin in Israel serves as a warning about the dangers of unrepentant sin and its ability to entrench itself in a community or nation.

Influence of Leadership
Jeroboam's actions had lasting negative effects on Israel, illustrating the significant impact leaders have on the spiritual direction of their people.

Idolatry in Modern Context
While we may not worship physical idols today, anything that takes precedence over God in our lives can become an idol. We must be vigilant in identifying and removing these idols.

The Importance of True Worship
The presence of the Asherah pole in Samaria highlights the need for true worship of God, free from syncretism and compromise.

God's Patience and Justice
Despite Israel's continued sin, God showed patience, yet His justice eventually required action. This balance is a reminder of God's character and the need for repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that can distract us from our relationship with God, and how can we identify them in our lives?

2. How does the account of Jeroboam and the continued idolatry in Israel challenge us to consider the influence of our actions on others?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains true and focused solely on God, avoiding the syncretism seen in Israel?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's patience in your life. How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, support each other in turning away from sin and towards a deeper relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12:28-30
This passage describes Jeroboam's establishment of the golden calves, which became a sin for Israel, directly connecting to the ongoing idolatry mentioned in 2 Kings 13:6.

Exodus 20:3-5
The Ten Commandments, where God commands against idolatry, highlighting the seriousness of Israel's sin in maintaining the Asherah pole.

2 Kings 17:16-18
This passage details the eventual downfall of Israel due to persistent idolatry, showing the long-term consequences of the sins initiated by Jeroboam.