Joash

*Joash’s story is told in 2 Kings 11:1-12:21; 2 Chronicles 22:11-24:27

Who Is Joash?

  • Son of King Ahaziah: He was the son of King Ahaziah of Judah.
  • An Orphaned Prince: His grandmother, Queen Athaliah, sought to kill all royal heirs after Ahaziah’s death, but Joash was hidden and saved by his aunt Jehosheba.
  • Becomes King at Age Seven: He was anointed and became king when he was only seven years old, reigning in Jerusalem for 40 years.

Strengths and Accomplishments

  • Restoration of the Temple: Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Joash repaired the dilapidated temple, reflecting his initial commitment to God.
  • Upheld True Worship: For a significant portion of his reign, he upheld the worship of God and turned the nation away from idolatry.

Weaknesses and Mistakes

  • Influence of Officials: After the death of Jehoiada, Joash began to listen to the officials of Judah, leading the people astray and turning to idolatry.
  • Murder of Zechariah: Joash ordered the stoning of Jehoiada’s son, Zechariah, for speaking out against the nation’s idolatry. Ironically, Zechariah’s last words, “May the LORD see this and call you to account,” echoed the justice that would soon come upon Joash.
  • Lack of Gratitude: Despite all Jehoiada did for him, Joash’s murder of his son revealed an unsettling ingratitude and a tragic character turn.

Lessons from His Life

  • The Importance of Wise Counsel: Joash’s early reign thrived under Jehoiada’s mentorship. His life underscores the value of having godly advisers.
  • Stay True to Convictions: The negative turn in Joash’s reign reminds us of the importance of holding onto our beliefs and values, even when faced with pressure or temptations.
  • The Consequences of Abandoning God: Joash’s eventual downfall serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of forsaking God and choosing our path.

Key Verses (NIV Version)

  • 2 Kings 12:2 (About his righteousness with Jehoiada’s guidance): “Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the years Jehoiada the priest instructed him.”
  • 2 Chronicles 24:20 (Zechariah’s last words): “Then the Spirit of God came on Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said, ‘This is what God says: Why do you disobey the LORD’s commands? You will not prosper. Because you have forsaken the LORD, he has forsaken you.'”