◄ 2 Chronicles 24 ►
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Summary The Works and Wickedness of Joash 2 Chronicles 24 offers a poignant reminder of the necessity for steadfast faith and the perils of negative influences. Despite his promising start, Joash's susceptibility to bad counsel led him astray. His story urges us to remain anchored in truth and righteousness, regardless of changing circumstances or influential voices around us. Joash's Early Reign (24:1-3) Joash becomes king of Judah at a tender age. Under Jehoiada's guidance, he makes a wise marital choice and exhibits righteousness. Repairing the Temple (24:4-14) Joash initiates the restoration of the Temple, an endeavor funded generously by the people. The work is completed with integrity, and surplus funds are used to manufacture offerings for the Temple. Apostasy After Jehoiada's Death (24:15-22) After Jehoiada's death, Joash is influenced by the ungodly princes of Judah. He abandons the Temple and worships idols. Zechariah, Jehoiada's son, prophesies against this apostasy, but Joash has him stoned to death. Downfall and Death of Joash (24:23-27) Joash's apostasy invites divine punishment, with Aramean invaders inflicting heavy damage. Betrayed by his own officials, Joash is assassinated, ending his reign in ignominy. 2 Chronicles 24 narrates the gripping tale of Joash, the young king who reigns righteously under the guidance of the high priest Jehoiada, only to fall from grace upon the latter's death. The chapter covers Joash's efforts to repair the Temple, his tragic shift towards idolatry, the stoning of Zechariah, and his ignominious end. Teaching Points The Influence of Jehoiada Joash was heavily influenced by Jehoiada the priest, who guided him in doing what was right in the eyes of the Lord. Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest (2 Chronicles 24:2). Restoration of the Temple Under Joash's leadership and Jehoiada's guidance, the temple was restored. This demonstrates the importance of prioritizing worship and the house of God. They collected money and repaired the house of the LORD (2 Chronicles 24:12). The Downfall After Jehoiada's Death After Jehoiada's death, Joash listened to the wrong counsel, leading to idolatry and the eventual downfall of his reign. They abandoned the house of the LORD, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherah poles and idols (2 Chronicles 24:18). The Consequences of Disobedience Joash's turning away from God led to judgment and his assassination. This highlights the severe consequences of forsaking God. His servants conspired against him and killed him (2 Chronicles 24:25). Practical Applications Seek Godly Counsel Surround yourself with mentors and advisors who are grounded in biblical truth and can guide you in righteousness. Prioritize Worship Make the worship of God and the upkeep of His house a central part of your life. Stay Faithful Remain steadfast in your faith, even when those who have guided you are no longer present. Guard Against Idolatry Be vigilant against influences that draw you away from God, ensuring that He remains the center of your life. People 1. Joash Joash was the king of Judah who began his reign at the age of seven and reigned for forty years in Jerusalem. He is noted for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD during the lifetime of Jehoiada the priest (2 Chronicles 24:1-2). 2. Jehoiada Jehoiada was the high priest who played a crucial role in the early years of Joash's reign. He guided Joash in doing what was right and was instrumental in the restoration of the temple (2 Chronicles 24:2, 6, 12, 14). 3. Zibiah Zibiah of Beersheba was the mother of Joash (2 Chronicles 24:1). 4. The Levites The Levites were responsible for collecting the tax imposed by Moses for the maintenance of the temple. They were initially slow to act, prompting Joash to urge them to hasten the collection (2 Chronicles 24:5). 5. The Officials These were the leaders of Judah who, after the death of Jehoiada, influenced Joash to abandon the temple of the LORD and serve Asherah poles and idols (2 Chronicles 24:17-18). 6. Zechariah Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, was a prophet who confronted the people for their disobedience to God. He was stoned to death by order of King Joash in the courtyard of the LORD's temple (2 Chronicles 24:20-21). 7. The Arameans The Arameans invaded Judah and Jerusalem, executing judgment on Joash for his abandonment of the LORD. They left him severely wounded (2 Chronicles 24:23-24). 8. The Conspirators These were the servants of Joash who conspired against him and killed him on his bed as retribution for the murder of Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:25-26). 9. Jozabad Jozabad, the son of Shimeath, was one of the conspirators who killed Joash (2 Chronicles 24:26). 10. Jehozabad Jehozabad, the son of Shimrith, was another conspirator involved in the assassination of Joash (2 Chronicles 24:26). Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central city where King Joash reigned. It is significant as the political and spiritual center of Judah. In Hebrew, "Jerusalem" (יְרוּשָׁלַיִם, Yerushalayim) is often associated with peace and completeness. 2. Temple of the LORD The Temple in Jerusalem is where Joash focused his efforts on restoration. It is the sacred place of worship for the Israelites, representing God's dwelling among His people. The Hebrew term for "temple" is הֵיכָל (heikal), meaning a large building or palace, often used for the temple. 3. Judah The kingdom over which Joash ruled. Judah is one of the twelve tribes of Israel and represents the southern kingdom after the division of Israel. The Hebrew name יְהוּדָה (Yehudah) is derived from the root יָדָה (yadah), meaning "to praise." 4. Aram The kingdom that came against Judah during Joash's reign. Aram, known today as Syria, was a significant power in the region. The Hebrew name אֲרָם (Aram) refers to the ancient region and people located in the area of modern-day Syria. Events 1. Joash Becomes King Joash was seven years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem for forty years. His mother was Zibiah from Beersheba (2 Chronicles 24:1). 2. Joash's Righteousness Under Jehoiada Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest (2 Chronicles 24:2). The Hebrew root for "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) implies uprightness and moral integrity. 3. Jehoiada's Influence Jehoiada took two wives for Joash, and he had sons and daughters (2 Chronicles 24:3). 4. Restoration of the Temple Joash decided to restore the house of the LORD, which had been neglected (2 Chronicles 24:4). 5. Collection for the Temple Repair Joash instructed the Levites to collect money from all Israel to repair the temple annually, but the Levites did not act quickly (2 Chronicles 24:5). 6. King's Command to Repair the Temple Joash summoned Jehoiada and the priests, questioning why they had not required the Levites to bring in the tax from Judah and Jerusalem for the tent of the testimony (2 Chronicles 24:6). 7. Chest for Offerings A chest was placed outside the gate of the temple, and a proclamation was made for the people to bring their contributions (2 Chronicles 24:8-9). 8. People's Generosity The people and leaders rejoiced and brought their contributions, filling the chest with money (2 Chronicles 24:10). 9. Funds for Temple Repairs The money collected was used to hire masons and carpenters to restore the temple, as well as workers in iron and bronze (2 Chronicles 24:12). 10. Completion of Repairs The workmen labored, and the temple was restored to its original condition and strengthened (2 Chronicles 24:13). 11. Offerings and Worship After the repairs, they offered burnt offerings in the house of the LORD continually all the days of Jehoiada (2 Chronicles 24:14). 12. Death of Jehoiada Jehoiada lived to a ripe old age and died at 130 years old. He was buried with the kings because of his good deeds for God and His temple (2 Chronicles 24:15-16). 13. Joash's Apostasy After Jehoiada's death, the officials of Judah influenced Joash, and he abandoned the house of the LORD, serving Asherah poles and idols (2 Chronicles 24:17-18). 14. Prophetic Warning Prophets were sent to bring the people back to the LORD, but they would not listen (2 Chronicles 24:19). 15. Zechariah's Martyrdom The Spirit of God came upon Zechariah, son of Jehoiada, who rebuked the people. They conspired against him and stoned him to death by the king's command (2 Chronicles 24:20-21). 16. Judgment on Joash At the end of the year, the Aramean army attacked Judah and Jerusalem, destroying the leaders and sending the plunder to the king of Damascus (2 Chronicles 24:23). 17. Joash's Wounding and Assassination Joash was severely wounded, and his servants conspired against him for killing the son of Jehoiada. They assassinated him on his bed (2 Chronicles 24:25). 18. Joash's Burial Joash was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings (2 Chronicles 24:25). 19. Succession Amaziah, Joash's son, became king in his place (2 Chronicles 24:27). Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. 1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.' Hebrews 10:25 Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom to seek and heed godly counsel in all areas of life. Ask God to help you prioritize His worship and the care of His church. Seek strength to remain faithful to God, regardless of changing circumstances or influences. Pray for discernment to recognize and resist any form of idolatry in your life. As we reflect on the life of Joash, may we learn from his successes and failures, striving to remain faithful to God throughout our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jehoiada's guidance influence Joash's early reign? Can you think of modern examples where mentorship has similarly shaped individuals? 2. Reflect on the efforts made to repair the Temple. How does this show the role of community in religious matters? 3. Why do you think Joash turned to idolatry after Jehoiada's death despite his initial devotion to God? 4. How does Joash's story highlight the impact of peer pressure or societal influence on our actions and beliefs? 5. How did Joash respond to Zechariah's prophecy? How should we respond to criticism or correction, especially when it's based on truth? 6. Compare and contrast the deaths of Jehoiada and Joash. What does this reveal about the consequences of our actions? 7. How can we resist negative influences and remain steadfast in our beliefs like Jehoiada, even when surrounded by unrighteousness? 8. How does Joash's story illustrate the biblical principle that "whatever a man sows, that he will also reap" (Galatians 6:7)? 9. How does the punishment of Joash relate to the concept of divine justice? 10. Why is it important to remember the source of our guidance, as seen in Joash's dependence on Jehoiada? 11. How can we ensure the integrity of our faith, avoiding the fate of Joash who fell into apostasy? 12. What lessons can we learn from Zechariah’s courage to speak truth to power, despite the cost? 13. What role does repentance play in our faith journey and how could it have changed Joash's fate? 14. How does the narrative of Joash reflect on the importance of personal responsibility for one's spiritual health? 15. How does Joash's downfall serve as a warning against complacency in our spiritual life? 16. What can we learn about the dangers of forsaking God's commands for worldly counsel? 17. How should we react when we see leaders or influential figures going astray, as Joash did? 18. What lessons can we glean from the community's initial support of Joash and their subsequent disloyalty? 19. How does this chapter highlight the role of prophecy in the narrative of the Bible? 20. How can we apply the lessons from Joash's life and reign to our own personal walk with God? Topics 1. Joash's Reign and Righteous Beginnings Joash became king at the age of seven and reigned in Jerusalem for forty years. Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. This period highlights the importance of godly mentorship and leadership in maintaining faithfulness to God. 2. Restoration of the Temple Joash initiated the restoration of the LORD's temple, which had fallen into disrepair. He instructed the Levites to collect money from the people to fund the repairs. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "tikkun" (תיקון), meaning restoration or repair, emphasizing the need to maintain the sanctity of worship spaces. 3. Collection and Use of Offerings A chest was placed outside the temple to collect offerings from the people. The funds were used to hire masons and carpenters to restore the temple. This demonstrates the communal responsibility and willingness to support religious institutions, rooted in the Hebrew word "terumah" (תְּרוּמָה), meaning offering or contribution. 4. Jehoiada's Influence and Death Jehoiada lived to a ripe old age and was buried with the kings because of the good he had done in Israel for God and His temple. His influence on Joash underscores the impact of righteous leadership and the Hebrew concept of "chesed" (חֶסֶד), meaning loving-kindness or faithfulness. 5. Apostasy after Jehoiada's Death After Jehoiada's death, the officials of Judah led Joash astray, and he abandoned the temple of the LORD to serve Asherah poles and idols. This apostasy highlights the Hebrew term "avodah zarah" (עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה), meaning foreign worship or idolatry, and the dangers of turning away from God. 6. Prophetic Warning and Rejection God sent prophets to bring the people back to Him, but they would not listen. Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, was filled with the Spirit of God and warned the people, but he was stoned to death by order of the king. This event illustrates the Hebrew concept of "navi" (נָבִיא), meaning prophet, and the rejection of divine messages. 7. Judgment and Downfall of Joash The Arameans invaded Judah, and Joash was severely wounded. His own officials conspired against him and killed him for murdering the son of Jehoiada. This reflects the principle of divine justice and retribution, rooted in the Hebrew word "mishpat" (מִשְׁפָּט), meaning judgment or justice. 8. Legacy and Burial Joash was not buried in the tombs of the kings, signifying his fall from grace. This serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of forsaking God and the importance of maintaining faithfulness throughout one's life. Themes 1. Righteous Leadership and Influence Joash's reign begins under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, highlighting the importance of godly counsel. "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest" (2 Chronicles 24:2). The Hebrew root for "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) implies uprightness and moral integrity. 2. Restoration of the Temple Joash initiates the repair of the temple, emphasizing the theme of restoring worship and reverence for God. "Now it came to pass after this that Joash set his heart on repairing the house of the LORD" (2 Chronicles 24:4). The Hebrew word for "repairing" (חָדַשׁ, chadash) suggests renewal and restoration. 3. Generosity and Giving The people contribute willingly to the temple repairs, illustrating the theme of communal responsibility and generosity. "All the leaders and all the people rejoiced and brought their contributions and dropped them into the chest until it was full" (2 Chronicles 24:10). The Hebrew root for "contributions" (תְּרוּמָה, terumah) denotes offerings or gifts given freely. 4. The Consequences of Apostasy After Jehoiada's death, Joash turns away from God, leading to idolatry and divine judgment. "They abandoned the house of the LORD, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherah poles and idols" (2 Chronicles 24:18). The Hebrew root for "abandoned" (עָזַב, azav) conveys forsaking or leaving behind. 5. Prophetic Warning and Rejection Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, warns the people, but they reject his message, leading to his martyrdom. "But they conspired against him, and by order of the king, they stoned him to death in the courtyard of the house of the LORD" (2 Chronicles 24:21). The Hebrew root for "conspired" (קָשַׁר, qashar) indicates plotting or binding together against someone. 6. Divine Retribution Joash's betrayal and subsequent downfall demonstrate the theme of divine justice. "When the year had ended, the army of Aram marched against Joash" (2 Chronicles 24:23). The Hebrew root for "marched" (עָלָה, alah) implies going up or advancing, often used in the context of military action. 7. Legacy and Remembrance The narrative concludes with a reflection on Joash's legacy, contrasting his early faithfulness with his later apostasy. "And they buried him in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings" (2 Chronicles 24:25). The Hebrew root for "buried" (קָבַר, qabar) signifies interment, often with implications of honor or dishonor based on burial location. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions