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2 Chronicles 24

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1 Joash was seven years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem forty years. His mother’s name was Zibiah; she was from Beersheba. 2 And Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest. 3 Jehoiada took for himself two wives, and he had sons and daughters. 4 Some time later, Joash set his heart on repairing the house of the LORD. 5 So he gathered the priests and Levites and said, “Go out to the cities of Judah and collect the money due annually from all Israel, to repair the house of your God. Do it quickly.” The Levites, however, did not make haste. 6 So the king called Jehoiada the high priest and said, “Why have you not required the Levites to bring from Judah and Jerusalem the tax imposed by Moses the servant of the LORD and by the assembly of Israel for the Tent of the Testimony?" 7 For the sons of that wicked woman Athaliah had broken into the house of God and had even used the sacred objects of the house of the LORD for the Baals. 8 At the king’s command a chest was made and placed outside, at the gate of the house of the LORD. 9 And a proclamation was issued in Judah and Jerusalem that they were to bring to the LORD the tax imposed by Moses the servant of God on Israel in the wilderness. 10 All the officers and all the people rejoiced and brought their contributions, and they dropped them in the chest until it was full. 11 Whenever the chest was brought by the Levites to the king’s overseers and they saw that there was a large amount of money, the royal scribe and the officer of the high priest would come and empty the chest and carry it back to its place. They did this daily and gathered the money in abundance. 12 Then the king and Jehoiada would give the money to those who supervised the labor on the house of the LORD to hire stonecutters and carpenters to restore the house of the LORD, as well as workers in iron and bronze to repair the house of the LORD. 13 So the workmen labored, and in their hands the repair work progressed. They restored the house of God according to its specifications, and they reinforced it. 14 When they were finished, they brought the rest of the money to the king and Jehoiada to make with it the articles for the house of the LORD—utensils for the service and for the burnt offerings, dishes, and other objects of gold and silver. Throughout the days of Jehoiada, burnt offerings were presented regularly in the house of the LORD. 15 When Jehoiada was old and full of years, he died at the age of 130. 16 And Jehoiada was buried with the kings in the City of David, because he had done what was good in Israel for God and His temple. 17 After the death of Jehoiada, however, the officials of Judah came and paid homage to the king, and he listened to them. 18 They abandoned the house of the LORD, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherah poles and idols. So wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem for this guilt of theirs. 19 Nevertheless, the LORD sent prophets to bring the people back to Him and to testify against them; but they would not listen. 20 Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest, who stood up 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.’" 21 But they conspired against Zechariah, and by order of the king, they stoned him in the courtyard of the house of the LORD. 22 Thus King Joash failed to remember the kindness that Zechariah’s father Jehoiada had extended to him. Instead, Joash killed Jehoiada’s son. As he lay dying, Zechariah said, “May the LORD see this and call you to account." 23 In the spring, the army of Aram went to war against Joash. They entered Judah and Jerusalem and destroyed all the leaders of the people, and they sent all the plunder to their king in Damascus. 24 Although the Aramean army had come with only a few men, the LORD delivered into their hand a very great army. Because Judah had forsaken the LORD, the God of their fathers, judgment was executed on Joash. 25 And when the Arameans had withdrawn, they left Joash severely wounded. His own servants conspired against him for shedding the blood of the son of Jehoiada the priest, and they killed him on his bed. So he died and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings. 26 Those who conspired against Joash were Zabad son of Shimeath the Ammonitess and Jehozabad son of Shimrith the Moabitess. 27 The accounts of the sons of Joash, as well as the many pronouncements about him and about the restoration of the house of God, are indeed written in the Treatise of the Book of the Kings. And his son Amaziah reigned in his place.

Study Notes — 2 Chronicles 24

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Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the introduction of King Joash, who became king at the age of seven after the death of his father, Ahaziah. Under the guidance of the high priest Jehoiada, Joash implemented various reforms, including the restoration of the Temple, which had fallen into disrepair during the reign of his father and grandmother, Athaliah. The people of Judah brought offerings to support the renovation of the Temple, and the work was completed during Joash's reign. However, after Jehoiada's death, Joash turned away from the Lord and began to worship idols, leading to a prophetic condemnation and ultimately, his assassination. The chapter concludes with the accession of Joash's son, Amaziah, to the throne.

Context for the Chapter

2 Chronicles 24 is part of the larger narrative of the divided kingdom, which began after the death of King Solomon. The chapter is situated within the history of the kingdom of Judah, which was marked by periods of faithfulness and apostasy. The restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign is a significant event in this narrative, as it represents a moment of spiritual renewal and a return to the worship of the one true God. The chapter also looks forward to the future, as it foreshadows the coming of a greater King who will perfectly follow God's will and bring about a greater restoration.

Heart Application

This chapter encourages readers to remain faithful to God, even in the face of challenges or temptations. It emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with godly advisors and seeking wise counsel. The narrative also serves as a reminder of the dangers of spiritual complacency and the need for constant vigilance in one's faith.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of King Joash, who became king at a young age and initially followed the Lord. With the help of the high priest Jehoiada, Joash restored the Temple and implemented spiritual reforms. However, after Jehoiada's death, Joash turned away from God and began to worship idols, leading to his downfall. The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful leadership and the dangers of spiritual complacency, as seen in 2 Chronicles 24:2 and 24:17.

Voices from the Church

“The Temple of God is a type of the Church, and the restoration of the Temple is a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of believers. As the Temple was restored, so too can our hearts be restored through the power of the Gospel.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The example of Joash serves as a warning to all who would turn away from the Lord. It shows that even the most promising beginnings can end in tragedy if one does not remain faithful to God's Word.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Accession of Joash (24:1) — Joash became king at the age of seven, after the death of his father, Ahaziah. This marked the beginning of a new era in Judah, one that would be shaped by the influences of the high priest Jehoiada.
  2. The Restoration of the Temple (24:4-14) — Under Jehoiada's guidance, Joash implemented a plan to restore the Temple, which had fallen into disrepair. The people of Judah brought offerings to support the renovation, and the work was completed during Joash's reign.
  3. The Apostasy of Joash (24:15-22) — After Jehoiada's death, Joash turned away from the Lord and began to worship idols. This led to a prophetic condemnation and ultimately, his assassination.
  4. The Accession of Amaziah (24:23-27) — The chapter concludes with the accession of Joash's son, Amaziah, to the throne. This marked the beginning of a new era in Judah, one that would be shaped by the experiences of the past and the challenges of the future.
  5. Conclusion (24:27) — The chapter ends with a reference to the sources used to compile the history of Joash's reign, emphasizing the importance of understanding the past in order to navigate the present and future.

Core Doctrines

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
This chapter teaches that spiritual leaders, such as Jehoiada, play a crucial role in shaping the actions of those in power. It emphasizes the need for godly advisors who can provide wise counsel and encouragement to follow the Lord.
The Dangers of Spiritual Complacency
The narrative of Joash serves as a warning against becoming complacent in one's faith. It underscores the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to following God's Word, even when faced with challenges or temptations.
The Necessity of Faithful Obedience
The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands. It shows that even small acts of disobedience can have significant consequences, while faithful obedience can lead to blessings and prosperity.
The Sovereignty of God
The events of this chapter demonstrate the sovereignty of God, who works through the actions of human leaders to achieve His purposes. It underscores the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.

Lessons from 2 Chronicles 24

  1. The Importance of Spiritual Leadership — This chapter teaches that spiritual leaders play a crucial role in shaping the actions of those in power. It emphasizes the need for godly advisors who can provide wise counsel and encouragement to follow the Lord.
  2. The Dangers of Spiritual Complacency — The narrative of Joash serves as a warning against becoming complacent in one's faith. It underscores the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to following God's Word, even when faced with challenges or temptations.
  3. The Necessity of Faithful Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands. It shows that even small acts of disobedience can have significant consequences, while faithful obedience can lead to blessings and prosperity.
  4. The Sovereignty of God — The events of this chapter demonstrate the sovereignty of God, who works through the actions of human leaders to achieve His purposes. It underscores the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.
  5. The Importance of Worship and the Presence of God — The restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign reveals the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people. It emphasizes the need for a deep commitment to worship and a desire to experience God's presence in our lives.

Themes from 2 Chronicles 24

  1. Faithfulness and Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands. It shows that even small acts of disobedience can have significant consequences, while faithful obedience can lead to blessings and prosperity.
  2. The Dangers of Spiritual Complacency — The narrative of Joash serves as a warning against becoming complacent in one's faith. It underscores the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to following God's Word, even when faced with challenges or temptations.
  3. The Importance of Spiritual Leadership — This chapter teaches that spiritual leaders play a crucial role in shaping the actions of those in power. It emphasizes the need for godly advisors who can provide wise counsel and encouragement to follow the Lord.
  4. The Sovereignty of God — The events of this chapter demonstrate the sovereignty of God, who works through the actions of human leaders to achieve His purposes. It underscores the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.
  5. The Importance of Worship and the Presence of God — The restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign reveals the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people. It emphasizes the need for a deep commitment to worship and a desire to experience God's presence in our lives.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What role did Jehoiada play in Joash's early reign, and what lessons can be learned from his example?
  2. How did Joash's later turn to idolatry reflect a larger pattern of spiritual complacency in Judah, and what warnings can be taken from this narrative?
  3. What does the restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign reveal about the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people?
  4. How does the story of Joash serve as a reminder of the dangers of rejecting godly counsel and the importance of surrounding oneself with wise advisors?
  5. What implications does the narrative of 2 Chronicles 24 have for our understanding of the relationship between faith and obedience, and how can we apply these lessons in our own lives?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Accession of Joash (24:1-3)

24:1 Joash became king at the age of seven, after the death of his father, Ahaziah. This marked the beginning of a new era in Judah, one that would be shaped by the influences of the high priest Jehoiada.
24:2 Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada the priest. This verse highlights the positive influence of Jehoiada on Joash's early reign and the importance of spiritual leadership in shaping the actions of those in power.
24:3 Jehoiada gave him two daughters as wives, and Joash had sons and daughters. This verse emphasizes the close relationship between Joash and Jehoiada, as well as the importance of family and lineage in the biblical narrative.

2. The Restoration of the Temple (24:4-14)

24:4 Some time later, Joash decided to restore the house of the Lord. This marked a significant turning point in Joash's reign, as he began to focus on the spiritual needs of his people.
24:5 He gathered the priests and Levites and said to them, 'Go out to the cities of Judah and collect the money due to the Lord from all Israel, to repair the house of your God.' This verse emphasizes the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people.
24:6 The Levites went throughout all the cities of Judah and Israel, but the people were slow to bring in the money. This verse highlights the challenges faced by Joash and the Levites as they sought to restore the Temple and promote worship among the people.
24:7 The king summoned Jehoiada the priest and said to him, 'Why have you not required the Levites to bring in from Judah and Jerusalem the tax imposed by Moses the servant of the Lord and by the assembly of Israel for the Tent of the Testimony?' This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual leadership and the need for godly advisors who can provide wise counsel and encouragement to follow the Lord.

3. The Apostasy of Joash (24:15-22)

24:15 Jehoiada grew old and was full of years, and he died. He was one hundred and thirty years old when he died. This verse marks a significant turning point in the narrative, as the death of Jehoiada led to a decline in Joash's faithfulness and a turn towards idolatry.
24:16 He was buried with the kings in the City of David, because he had done what was right in the eyes of the Lord for Israel and Judah. This verse emphasizes the importance of legacy and the impact that one's actions can have on future generations.
24:17 After the death of Jehoiada, the officials of Judah came and paid homage to the king, and he listened to them. This verse highlights the dangers of spiritual complacency and the importance of remaining faithful to God's Word, even in the face of challenges or temptations.
24:18 They abandoned the house of the Lord, the God of their fathers, and worshiped the Asherah poles and the idols. This verse emphasizes the tragic consequences of rejecting God's Word and turning to idolatry, as seen in the example of Joash and the officials of Judah.

4. The Prophetic Condemnation of Joash (24:23-25)

24:23 At the turn of the year, the army of Aram marched against Joash; it invaded Judah and Jerusalem and killed all the leaders of the people. This verse highlights the consequences of Joash's apostasy and the dangers of rejecting God's Word.
24:24 Although the army of Aram had come with only a few men, the Lord delivered into their hands a very large army, because Judah had forsaken the Lord, the God of their fathers. This verse emphasizes the sovereignty of God, who works through the actions of human leaders to achieve His purposes.
24:25 When the Arameans withdrew, they left Joash severely wounded. This verse marks a significant turning point in the narrative, as Joash's wounds ultimately led to his death and the accession of his son, Amaziah, to the throne.

5. The Accession of Amaziah (24:26-27)

24:26 His servants conspired against him and killed him in his bed, because he had turned away from the Lord. This verse highlights the tragic consequences of Joash's apostasy and the dangers of rejecting God's Word.
24:27 As for the rest of the events of Joash's reign, all he did and his achievements, are they not written in the book of the annals of the kings of Judah? This verse emphasizes the importance of understanding the past in order to navigate the present and future, and provides a conclusion to the narrative of Joash's reign.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the significance of the restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign?

The restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign was a significant event that marked a return to the worship of the one true God. It emphasized the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people, as seen in 2 Chronicles 24:4-14. The restoration of the Temple also served as a reminder of the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands, as seen in 2 Chronicles 24:2.

What led to Joash's apostasy and the consequences that followed?

Joash's apostasy was led by the officials of Judah, who came and paid homage to the king after the death of Jehoiada. This marked a significant turning point in the narrative, as Joash began to listen to the officials and reject the counsel of godly advisors. The consequences of Joash's apostasy were severe, as he faced prophetic condemnation and ultimately, his assassination, as seen in 2 Chronicles 24:17-25.

What lessons can be learned from the example of Joash and the events of 2 Chronicles 24?

The narrative of Joash serves as a warning against becoming complacent in one's faith. It underscores the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to following God's Word, even when faced with challenges or temptations. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of spiritual leadership and the need for godly advisors who can provide wise counsel and encouragement to follow the Lord, as seen in 2 Chronicles 24:2.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 2 Chronicles 24:2 → Deuteronomy 17:18-20 The importance of spiritual leadership and the need for godly advisors is emphasized in both 2 Chronicles 24:2 and Deuteronomy 17:18-20. Both passages highlight the significance of surrounding oneself with wise counsel and remaining faithful to God's Word.
2 2 Chronicles 24:17 → Psalm 119:113 The dangers of spiritual complacency are warned against in both 2 Chronicles 24:17 and Psalm 119:113. Both passages emphasize the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to following God's Word, even in the face of challenges or temptations.
3 2 Chronicles 24:20 → Matthew 23:37 The prophetic condemnation of Joash in 2 Chronicles 24:20 is similar to the condemnation of the Pharisees in Matthew 23:37. Both passages emphasize the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands and the dangers of rejecting God's Word.
4 2 Chronicles 24:22 → Hebrews 13:7 The importance of remembering and honoring the legacy of spiritual leaders is emphasized in both 2 Chronicles 24:22 and Hebrews 13:7. Both passages highlight the significance of learning from the examples of those who have gone before us and remaining faithful to God's Word.
5 2 Chronicles 24:25 → Isaiah 55:11 The sovereignty of God is emphasized in both 2 Chronicles 24:25 and Isaiah 55:11. Both passages demonstrate the power and authority of God, who works through the actions of human leaders to achieve His purposes.
6 2 Chronicles 24:1 → 1 Kings 14:21-22 The accession of Joash to the throne is similar to the accession of Rehoboam in 1 Kings 14:21-22. Both passages highlight the challenges faced by new leaders and the importance of seeking wise counsel and remaining faithful to God's Word.
7 2 Chronicles 24:4 → Exodus 35:4-19 The restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign is similar to the construction of the Tabernacle in Exodus 35:4-19. Both passages emphasize the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people.
8 2 Chronicles 24:15 → Numbers 33:39 The death of Jehoiada is similar to the death of Aaron in Numbers 33:39. Both passages highlight the significance of legacy and the impact that one's actions can have on future generations.
9 2 Chronicles 24:17 → Deuteronomy 12:1-14 The apostasy of Joash is similar to the warnings against idolatry in Deuteronomy 12:1-14. Both passages emphasize the dangers of rejecting God's Word and turning to idolatry.
10 2 Chronicles 24:25 → Psalm 51:17 The tragic consequences of Joash's apostasy are similar to the consequences of sin in Psalm 51:17. Both passages emphasize the importance of repentance and the need for a broken and contrite heart.

Sermons on 2 Chronicles 24

SermonDescription
Art Katz Cain and Abel (The First Murder) - Part 2 by Art Katz In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of choosing between two opposing paths in the last days. They highlight the contrast between the biblical view of reality and
Carter Conlon What Does It Take to See God by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else. He reminds the congregation that Jesus promises to provide
Zac Poonen 3 Characteristics of God's House by Zac Poonen This sermon emphasizes the importance of God's Word as the foundation of the church, the fire of the Holy Spirit burning in believers' lives, and the need to reach out to others wi
Kevin Turner 2 Chronicles 24:1-15 by Kevin Turner In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing God as the creator and ourselves as His creation. He shares a personal experience from his trip to Kenya that s
Roy Daniel True Salvation by Roy Daniel This sermon emphasizes the importance of genuine salvation through Jesus Christ, highlighting the dangers of false foundations and the need for a personal encounter with God. It ad
F.B. Meyer The Spirit of God Clothed Itself With Zechariah by F.B. Meyer F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound relationship between the Holy Spirit and those who surrender to Him, likening it to clothing that the Spirit wears. He challenges listeners to co
Mary Wilder Tileston Just Do It! by Mary Wilder Tileston Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the importance of promptly fulfilling our duties and tasks, emphasizing that delaying them only leads to hindrances in our relationship with God
Walter Beuttler Commentary Notes - Ii Chronicles by Walter Beuttler Walter Beuttler preaches on the historical accounts of the kings of Judah in the Book of II Chronicles, emphasizing the importance of seeking God and living in His sight. The reign

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Chronicles 24

Matthew Henry's commentary on 2 Chronicles 24 emphasizes the importance of spiritual leadership and the need for godly advisors. He notes that Joash's early reign was marked by a commitment to following God's Word, but that he later turned away from the Lord and faced severe consequences. Henry also highlights the significance of the restoration of the Temple during Joash's reign, emphasizing the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people. He concludes by noting that the narrative of Joash serves as a warning against becoming complacent in one's faith and underscores the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to following God's Word. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Influence of Spiritual Leaders

The chapter highlights the significant impact that spiritual leaders, such as Jehoiada, can have on those in power. It emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with godly advisors who can provide wise counsel and encouragement to follow the Lord.

The Dangers of Spiritual Complacency

Joash's later turn to idolatry serves as a warning against becoming complacent in one's faith. It underscores the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to following God's Word, even when faced with challenges or temptations.

The Importance of Faithful Obedience

The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands. It shows that even small acts of disobedience can have significant consequences, while faithful obedience can lead to blessings and prosperity.

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