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 of the house of Jeroboam
This phrase highlights the persistent disobedience of Israel. The Hebrew root for "turn away" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning to return or repent. Despite opportunities for repentance, Israel continued in the idolatrous practices initiated by Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom. Historically, Jeroboam's sins involved setting up golden calves in Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:28-30), leading Israel into idolatry. This phrase underscores the tragic pattern of Israel's spiritual infidelity and the difficulty of breaking free from entrenched sin.

which he had caused Israel to commit
The phrase "caused Israel to commit" indicates the influential role of leadership in shaping the spiritual direction of a nation. Jeroboam's actions had long-lasting effects, leading the people into sin. The Hebrew word "חָטָא" (chata) means to miss the mark or to sin. This highlights the responsibility of leaders to guide their people toward righteousness. The historical context shows that Jeroboam's idolatry was a deliberate attempt to prevent the Israelites from returning to Jerusalem to worship, thus securing his political power at the cost of spiritual truth.

and they continued in them
The continuation in sin reflects a stubbornness and unwillingness to change. The Hebrew word "הָלַךְ" (halak) means to walk or to go, suggesting a lifestyle or habitual practice. This phrase indicates that the people of Israel were entrenched in their sinful ways, walking in the path of idolatry rather than seeking the Lord. It serves as a warning of the dangers of habitual sin and the importance of repentance and turning back to God.

The Asherah pole also remained standing in Samaria
The "Asherah pole" was a symbol of the Canaanite goddess Asherah, often associated with fertility and worshiped alongside Baal. The presence of the Asherah pole in Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom, signifies the deep-rooted idolatry that persisted despite prophetic warnings. Archaeological findings have uncovered similar poles and altars, confirming the widespread nature of such practices. This phrase serves as a reminder of the spiritual compromise and syncretism that plagued Israel, highlighting the need for exclusive devotion to the one true God.

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.