◄ 2 Kings 12 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Joash Repairs the Temple 2 Kings 12 reminds us of the importance of integrity and remaining steadfast in our commitments to God. Joash began his reign with a desire to restore God's house, but he fell into corruption and suffered the tragic consequences. This chapter underscores the significance of accountability in leadership and the dire ramifications of straying from God's path. In our lives today, we should strive to be consistently faithful, not only in our words but also in our actions. Joash's Reign in Judah (Verses 1-3) Joash became king of Judah at just seven years old and reigned for forty years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Zibiah of Beersheba. Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, but the high places were not removed, and people still offered sacrifices and burnt incense there. Restoration of the Temple (Verses 4-16) Joash commanded that the money from the dedicated things be used to repair the temple's dilapidations. However, the priests did not act quickly enough. Joash then asked Jehoiada to take a chest, bore a hole in its lid, and place it beside the altar to collect money from the people for the repairs. This method worked, and sufficient money was raised to restore the temple without diluting the funds for the priests. Hazael's Threat and Joash's Response (Verses 17-18) When Hazael, the King of Aram, threatened Jerusalem, Joash gave him all the sacred treasures from the temple and the royal palace to divert his attack. Assassination of Joash (Verses 19-21) Joash's servants conspired against him due to his murder of Zechariah, Jehoiada's son, and killed him on his bed. He was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings. 2 Kings 12 dives into the reign of Joash, an impressionable king who begins his rule with a passion for temple restoration and God's will, under the tutelage of Jehoiada, the high priest. However, his reign ultimately devolves into corruption, betrayal, and his untimely demise. This chapter underscores the importance of integrity, accountability, and the dire consequences of betrayal. Teaching Points Joash's Early Reign and Influence Joash became king at a young age and was guided by Jehoiada the priest. Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days Jehoiada the priest instructed him (2 Kings 12:2). This highlights the importance of godly mentorship and guidance. The Temple's Neglect and Need for Repair The temple had fallen into disrepair, and Joash recognized the need for restoration. This underscores the necessity of maintaining places of worship and the spiritual significance they hold. Fundraising for the Temple Repairs Joash initiated a collection for the temple repairs, demonstrating the importance of communal effort and financial stewardship in supporting God's work (2 Kings 12:4-5). Accountability and Integrity in Leadership Joash ensured that the funds collected were used appropriately by appointing trustworthy individuals to oversee the work (2 Kings 12:15). This emphasizes the need for integrity and transparency in leadership. The Role of Jehoiada Jehoiada's influence was pivotal in Joash's reign, showing the impact of spiritual leaders in guiding and supporting those in authority. Practical Applications Seek Godly Mentorship Just as Joash was guided by Jehoiada, seek out mentors who can provide spiritual guidance and wisdom in your life. Prioritize God's House Consider how you can contribute to the upkeep and support of your local church or place of worship, recognizing its importance in your spiritual journey. Practice Financial Stewardship Reflect on how you manage your resources and how you can contribute to God's work, ensuring that your giving is done with integrity and purpose. Embrace Accountability Whether in leadership or daily life, strive to be accountable and transparent in your actions, fostering trust and integrity. People 1. Joash (Jehoash) Joash, also known as Jehoash, is the king of Judah who began his reign at the age of seven and reigned for forty years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name was Zibiah of Beersheba. Joash is noted for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest (2 Kings 12:1-2). 2. Jehoiada Jehoiada is the high priest who played a significant role in guiding King Joash. He is credited with influencing Joash to do what was right in the eyes of the LORD. Jehoiada's leadership was instrumental in the repair of the temple (2 Kings 12:2, 7). 3. Zibiah Zibiah is the mother of Joash, mentioned briefly in the text. She is from Beersheba (2 Kings 12:1). 4. Hazael Hazael is the king of Aram (Syria) who came up against Gath and captured it, and then set his face to go up to Jerusalem. Joash sent him treasures from the temple and the royal palace to appease him (2 Kings 12:17-18). 5. Unnamed Priests The priests are mentioned collectively in the context of collecting money for the repair of the temple. They were initially responsible for receiving the money from the people but were later replaced by a more structured system due to inefficiencies (2 Kings 12:4-8). 6. Unnamed Servants of Joash These are the servants who conspired against Joash and assassinated him at Beth Millo, on the road that goes down to Silla (2 Kings 12:20-21). The original Hebrew text provides insight into the roles and relationships of these individuals, with terms like "kohen" (כֹּהֵן) for priest and "melek" (מֶלֶךְ) for king, underscoring their positions and duties within the narrative. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location in 2 Kings 12, where King Joash reigns. It is the capital city of Judah and the site of the Temple, which Joash repairs. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), meaning "foundation of peace." 2. Temple of the LORD The Temple, located in Jerusalem, is the focal point of Joash's reforms. He initiates repairs to restore it after years of neglect. The Hebrew term for the Temple is "בֵּית יְהוָה" (Beit Yahweh), meaning "House of the LORD." 3. Aram Aram is mentioned in the context of Hazael, king of Aram, who threatens Jerusalem. Aram is a region northeast of Israel, often in conflict with the Israelites. The Hebrew root is "אֲרָם" (Aram), referring to the ancient region and people. Events 1. Reign of Jehoash Jehoash (also known as Joash) begins his reign as king of Judah. He becomes king in the seventh year of Jehu's reign in Israel and reigns for forty years in Jerusalem. His mother's name is Zibiah from Beersheba (2 Kings 12:1). 2. Jehoash's Righteousness Jehoash does what is right in the eyes of the LORD all the days that Jehoiada the priest instructs him. However, the high places are not removed, and the people continue to offer sacrifices and burn incense there (2 Kings 12:2-3). 3. Temple Repairs Initiated Jehoash instructs the priests to collect all the money brought as sacred offerings to the temple of the LORD, including census money, personal vows, and voluntary contributions, to repair any damage to the temple (2 Kings 12:4-5). 4. Delay in Repairs By the twenty-third year of Jehoash's reign, the priests have not yet repaired the temple. Jehoash calls Jehoiada and the other priests to account and orders them to stop taking money from the people for themselves and to use it for temple repairs (2 Kings 12:6-8). 5. Collection System Established A chest is placed beside the altar to collect money for temple repairs. The priests agree not to receive money directly from the people but to use the funds collected in the chest for repairs (2 Kings 12:9-10). 6. Faithful Use of Funds The money collected is given to those overseeing the work on the temple. They pay the carpenters, builders, masons, and stonecutters, as well as purchase timber and dressed stone for the repairs. The funds are used faithfully, and no accounts are required from the men doing the work because they act with integrity (2 Kings 12:11-15). 7. Exclusion of Certain Offerings The money from guilt offerings and sin offerings is not brought into the temple of the LORD; it belongs to the priests (2 Kings 12:16). 8. Hazael's Threat Hazael, king of Aram, threatens Jerusalem. Jehoash takes all the sacred objects dedicated by his predecessors and himself, along with the gold found in the treasuries of the temple and the royal palace, and sends them to Hazael to withdraw from Jerusalem (2 Kings 12:17-18). 9. Assassination of Jehoash Jehoash's servants conspire against him and kill him at Beth Millo, on the road down to Silla. He is assassinated by Jozabad son of Shimeath and Jehozabad son of Shomer, and he is buried with his fathers in the City of David. His son Amaziah succeeds him as king (2 Kings 12:19-21). Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 These verses remind us that we are God's temple and should care for our spiritual well-being. Proverbs 11:14 Highlights the value of wise counsel, similar to the guidance Joash received from Jehoiada. 1 Timothy 6:18-19 Encourages believers to be generous and willing to share, aligning with the communal effort seen in Joash's fundraising for the temple. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment in choosing mentors and leaders who can guide you in your spiritual journey. Ask God to help you recognize the importance of maintaining and supporting your local church and community. Seek God's guidance in managing your resources wisely and contributing to His work with a cheerful heart. Pray for integrity and accountability in your actions, especially in areas of leadership and influence. As we reflect on 2 Kings 12, may we be inspired by Joash's commitment to restoring the temple and apply these lessons to our own lives, ensuring that we honor God in all that we do. Bible Study Questions 1. What lessons can we learn from the early reign of Joash? 2. How can we apply the story of the temple's restoration to our own spiritual rejuvenation? 3. Discuss the importance of accountability as illustrated in this chapter. 4. How did the influence of Jehoiada shape Joash's rule? What changed after his death? 5. Why do you think Joash failed to remove the high places, despite his efforts to do what was right in the eyes of the Lord? 6. How can we ensure the proper use of funds in religious settings in today's context, learning from Joash's administration? 7. Why did Joash decide to give the sacred treasures to Hazael? Was there another way he could have handled this situation? 8. Joash's assassination was a direct result of his actions against Zechariah. How does this event illustrate the Biblical principle of "you reap what you sow"? 9. How does the story of Joash's fall illustrate the dangers of power and influence? 10. What lessons on leadership and governance can contemporary leaders draw from Joash's reign and downfall? 11. How does the narrative of Joash reflect on the idea of remaining faithful under trials and tribulations? 12. What does the initial response of the priests to repair the temple say about complacency in religious duties? 13. How can we stay faithful to God, even when those around us or those who influence us falter, as Joash did after Jehoiada's death? 14. Discuss the impact of Joash's decisions on the kingdom of Judah. How can our choices impact our communities today? 15. Compare and contrast Joash's leadership with other biblical leaders. 16. Explore the relationship between Joash and Jehoiada. How does this relationship compare with mentor-mentee relationships today? 17. In what ways did Joash's fear influence his actions when facing Hazael's threat? 18. How might Joash's story have been different if he had sought God's guidance in dealing with Hazael? 19. What can the story of Joash teach us about the consequences of betraying trust? 20. How can we maintain our integrity, inspired by the story of Joash, when faced with difficult choices in our lives today? Topics 1. Reign of Joash (Jehoash) in Judah Joash, also known as Jehoash, begins his reign as king of Judah at the age of seven and reigns for forty years. His reign is noted for doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD, as instructed by Jehoiada the priest. This reflects the Hebrew term "יָשָׁר" (yashar), meaning upright or righteous, indicating his adherence to God's laws during Jehoiada's lifetime. 2. Repair of the Temple Joash initiates a project to repair the temple of the LORD, which had fallen into disrepair. He instructs the priests to collect money from the people to fund the repairs. This highlights the importance of maintaining the sanctity and functionality of the temple as a place of worship and sacrifice. 3. Collection of Funds for Temple Repairs The priests are tasked with collecting funds from the people, including the census money, personal vows, and freewill offerings. The Hebrew word "קֹדֶשׁ" (qodesh), meaning holy or sacred, underscores the sanctity of these contributions for temple use. 4. Jehoiada's Chest for Offerings A chest is placed beside the altar to collect offerings for the temple repairs. This method ensures transparency and accountability in the collection and use of funds, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "אֱמוּנָה" (emunah), meaning faithfulness or trustworthiness. 5. Completion of Temple Repairs The funds collected are used to hire skilled workers to restore the temple, ensuring that the work is done with integrity and dedication. The Hebrew root "שָׁלֵם" (shalem), meaning to complete or make whole, signifies the restoration of the temple to its intended glory. 6. Jehoash's Tribute to Hazael When Hazael, king of Aram, threatens Jerusalem, Joash sends him treasures from the temple and royal palace to appease him. This act of tribute, while pragmatic, reflects a compromise that contrasts with the earlier focus on temple restoration. 7. Assassination of Joash Joash is eventually assassinated by his own officials, which marks a tragic end to his reign. This event serves as a reminder of the instability and challenges faced by the kings of Judah, despite their efforts to follow God's commandments. Themes 1. Righteous Leadership and Obedience to God Joash's reign is marked by his efforts to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord, as guided by Jehoiada the priest. This theme emphasizes the importance of godly leadership and obedience to divine commandments. The Hebrew root for "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) implies uprightness and moral integrity. ^"Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days he was instructed by Jehoiada the priest."^ (2 Kings 12:2) 2. Temple Restoration and Stewardship Joash initiates the repair of the temple, highlighting the theme of stewardship over God's house. This reflects the responsibility of maintaining and honoring sacred spaces. The Hebrew word for "repair" (חָזַק, chazaq) suggests strengthening or making firm. ^"Let the priests receive from each of the donors, and let them repair any damage found in the temple."^ (2 Kings 12:5) 3. Accountability and Integrity in Financial Matters The collection and use of funds for temple repairs are conducted with transparency and integrity, underscoring the importance of accountability in financial dealings. The Hebrew term for "faithfully" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) conveys trustworthiness and reliability. ^"They did not require an accounting from the men into whose hands they delivered the money to pay the workmen, because they acted with integrity."^ (2 Kings 12:15) 4. The Consequences of Neglecting God's Commands Despite initial obedience, the failure to remove the high places indicates incomplete devotion to God’s commands, leading to negative consequences. This theme warns against partial obedience. The Hebrew word for "high places" (בָּמָה, bamah) refers to elevated sites of worship that were not sanctioned by God. ^"Nevertheless, the high places were not removed; the people continued sacrificing and burning incense there."^ (2 Kings 12:3) 5. Divine Judgment and Human Conflict The chapter concludes with conflict and the eventual assassination of Joash, illustrating the theme of divine judgment and the consequences of straying from God's path. This serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of human power and the ultimate authority of God. ^"His servants conspired against him and killed Joash at Beth-millo, on the road that goes down to Silla."^ (2 Kings 12:20) Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions