2 Chronicles Chapter 24 — The Reign and Restoration of Joash
King Joash restores the Temple with the help of Jehoiada the priest, but eventually turns to idolatry and faces divine judgment.
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Notable Verses
2 Chronicles 24:2
“Joash did that which was right in the LORD’s eyes all the days of Jehoiada the priest.”
This verse highlights the positive influence of Jehoiada on Joash's early spiritual life and leadership.
2 Chronicles 24:10
“All the princes and all the people rejoiced, and brought in, and cast into the chest, until they had filled it.”
It shows the collective enthusiasm and support of the people for repairing the house of God.
2 Chronicles 24:20
“God says, ‘Why do you disobey the LORD’s commandments, so that you can’t prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, he has also forsaken you.’”
This prophetic warning captures the central message regarding the consequences of turning away from God's law.
Chapter Summary
Joash begins his reign in Jerusalem at age seven, guided by the high priest Jehoiada. Together, they initiate a major restoration of the Temple, collecting taxes through a chest system at the gate to fund skilled masons and carpenters. However, after Jehoiada dies at a very old age, Joash is influenced by the princes of Judah to abandon the Temple and worship idols. When Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, prophesies against this rebellion, Joash orders him to be stoned in the Temple court. Consequently, God allows a small Syrian army to defeat Judah. Joash is left wounded and is eventually assassinated by his own servants in a conspiracy, ending his reign without the honor of being buried in the royal tombs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Joash gathered the priests and Levites to collect a tax based on the law of Moses. They placed a chest at the gate of the Temple for people to donate money, which was then used to hire masons and carpenters to restore the building and its vessels.
After the death of his mentor, Jehoiada the priest, the princes of Judah came and bowed down to the king. Joash listened to them and they abandoned the Temple to serve Asherah poles and idols.
Zechariah stood before the people and warned them that their disobedience would prevent them from prospering. In response, Joash conspired against him and had him stoned to death in the court of the Temple.
After being defeated by a small Syrian army, Joash was left seriously wounded. His own servants conspired against him to avenge the blood of the sons of Jehoiada and killed him while he was in his bed.
Study Note
The 'tax of Moses' mentioned in verse 6 refers to the half-shekel offering for the Tabernacle census first established in the wilderness.
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