Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, is a significant figure in the history of Judah, remembered for his tragic martyrdom. His account is primarily recounted in 2 Chronicles 24:20-22, where his death serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

Historical Context

Zechariah lived during the reign of King Joash of Judah. Joash began his reign under the guidance of Jehoiada, Zechariah's father, who was a faithful priest and advisor. Under Jehoiada's influence, Joash restored the temple and led the nation in the worship of Yahweh. However, after Jehoiada's death, Joash's fidelity to God waned, and he succumbed to the influence of corrupt officials who led him and the nation into idolatry.

The Prophetic Warning

In response to the nation's apostasy, "the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said to them, 'This is what God says: Why do you transgress the commandments of the LORD so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, He has forsaken you'" (2 Chronicles 24:20). Zechariah's bold proclamation was a direct challenge to the king and the people, calling them to repentance and warning them of the dire consequences of their actions.

Martyrdom

Despite his righteous warning, Zechariah's message was met with hostility. The leaders conspired against him, and at the king's command, they stoned him to death in the courtyard of the LORD's temple. This act of violence against a prophet of God was a grievous sin, especially considering Zechariah's lineage and the loyalty his father had shown to Joash. The narrative in 2 Chronicles 24:22 highlights the ingratitude and treachery of Joash: "Thus King Joash did not remember the kindness that Zechariah’s father Jehoiada had shown him, but killed his son. As he died, Zechariah said, 'May the LORD see this and call you to account.'"

Theological Significance

Zechariah's martyrdom is a stark illustration of the rejection of God's messengers and the peril of forsaking divine commandments. His death is a testament to the cost of prophetic ministry and the resistance often faced by those who speak truth to power. The cry of Zechariah as he died, invoking divine justice, underscores the biblical theme that God is the ultimate judge who will hold individuals and nations accountable for their actions.

New Testament Reference

The martyrdom of Zechariah is referenced by Jesus in the New Testament, further emphasizing its significance. In Matthew 23:35, Jesus condemns the religious leaders of His time, saying, "And so upon you will come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar" . This reference not only affirms the historical account but also places Zechariah's death within the broader narrative of the persecution of God's prophets throughout history.

Legacy

Zechariah's martyrdom serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of faithfulness and the reality of opposition to God's truth. His account is a call to remember the sacrifices of those who have stood for righteousness and to remain steadfast in the face of adversity.